Party Planning – Hors d’Oeuvres and Drinks

While the terms hors d ‘oeuvres and appetizers are often used interchangeably, there is a technical difference important to gourmands. Hors d ‘oeuvres are savory, bite-sized dishes served before a meal, while appetizers typically consist of several bites of food and are served at the table as a meal’s official first course. The name hors d ‘oeuvres can be roughly translated from the French as meaning “apart from (or before) the meal.”

How many hors d ‘oeuvres should be provided per person?

Factors that influence the number of hors d ‘oeuvres needed for a certain function include: how long the cocktail “hour” is, the time of day, type of function if a meal will also be served following the cocktail hour, and even the average age of your guests.

For a two hour party plan for:

• 10 -12 bites per person
• 20 bites per person if the hors d’oeuvres replace dinner 

When hors d’ oeuvres are served before a meal plan for:

• 5-7 bites when served before a light meal
• 3-4 bites when served before a full dinner meal

Keep in mind that people typically eat more during the first 60 minutes of a function. After two hours, consumption picks up again, especially if hors d’ oeuvres replace dinner, so plan accordingly.

Also, consider that young people eat more than older folks, and guests eat more at casual parties than formal functions.

How many different kinds of hors d ‘oeuvres should be served for an hors d’oeuvre the only party?

• For 25 guests plan for 6-7 different kinds of hors d’ oeuvres
• For 25-50 guests, plan for 10-12 different kinds of hors d’ oeuvres
• For more than 50 guests, plan for 10 or more different kinds of hors d’ oeuvres

If hors d’ oeuvres are served en lieu of dinner, include some substantial foods that can be served in hors d ‘oeuvres portions (e.g. a carving station or sushi bar).

Remember to provide a variety of foods to please everyone, including both hot and cold selections, full-flavored as well as more subtle bites, and up to 20% vegetarian dishes. 

If hors d’ oeuvres take the place of dinner, it also includes several sweet selections or, for a large function, even a sweet station (e.g. a fondue fountain). 

For what meals should hors d’ oeuvres be served?

Hors d’oeuvres are not customarily served for breakfast or brunch. However, 2-4 light hors d’oeuvres can be served per person for lunch if desired.

If you want to know more about how to organize a party, how many drinks and space per guest you need, download the Party Planning Guide in resources.