Mix, Match, and Mingle: How to Throw the Ultimate Build-Your-Own Dinner Party
by Stefanie Michaels
Build-your-own interactive food dinner parties are what I enjoy throwing on occasion–the perfect way to get friends together and have a good time discussing foodie options. What’s fun is that everyone gets to make their meals exactly how they want them.
We have a large island in our kitchen where everyone sits around, making it a central space in my home to do this. I’ve done interactive taco night and pizza making, even building a giant sundae together w friends to share.
It’s so fun to watch everyone get creative with their choices, and I even throw in items that might seem odd at first, but someone always comes up with a delicious pairing.
Have you ever tried pizza with pesto and apples? #Yum #DIY #squadgoals
Some interactive foods that are great for dinner parties include:
- Fondue: Fondue is perfect for a small dinner party. Guests can dip various items, such as bread, vegetables, or fruit into a pot of melted cheese or chocolate for dessert, making for a fun and interactive dining experience. If adding a meat for a dipping option, just make sure to have a separate crock of cheese for this.
- Tacos: Guests can build their own tacos with a variety of toppings, such as meats, vegetables, and sauces, allowing them to experiment their own flavor combinations. I’ll also put the toaster out, so my foodies can warm up their tortillas to start. Make sure to use unique cheeses such as blue cheese, smoked Gouda or brie for a spin on melty goodness.
- Tapas: Get out those small festive appetizer plates! Why? Because, tapas work perfect for interactivity because they are small plates that are made for sharing. Guests can pair a variety of dishes together and discover new flavors they may not have tried before.
- Build-your-own-pizza: By far one of my most favourite among my guests is Pizza Simply start with store bought pizza dough and then add in classic items. Also throw in options like jams, honey and fruit to add to the excitement.
Did You Know?
The world’s most expensive dinner party was the “Ultimate Dinner Party,” held in November 2018 in London. It cost $2.2 million and was organized by Founders Fresh– the exclusive, invite-only, made up of founders, CEOs and high-impact individuals who have set out to positively impact the world.
The event was an extravagant, 12-course feast served to only 12 guests and featured a menu created by three Michelin-starred chefs, rare and exotic ingredients, and a unique entertainment program.
The party was held in a luxurious private mansion, and guests were flown in by private jet from around the world. The event’s goal was to create a one-of-a-kind dining experience and showcase the best of the culinary world.
A Little History:
Dinner parties have a long and rich history, dating back to ancient civilizations, where they were used to socialize, build relationships, and display wealth and status.
In ancient Greece, for example, dinner parties were known as “symposia” and were held in private homes or public spaces. They often involved the consumption of wine and food, as well as intellectual discussions and entertainment such as music, poetry, and philosophy.
In medieval Europe, dinner parties were formal affairs that often lasted several hours and consisted of multiple courses, while in the Renaissance, they became even more elaborate, with intricate dishes and entertainments such as music and poetry.
During the Victorian era, dinner parties evolved into more intimate gatherings, often in the home, and became an essential aspect of polite society.
Today, dinner parties are a popular way to bring people together and enjoy good food, drinks, and company. They can range from simple get-togethers with friends to more elaborate events with themed menus and decorations.
