Today we’re having a mini history lesson—but don’t worry, there won’t be a quiz.
As with most things, styles evolve, and when it comes to serving food at a dinner party, it really comes down to one thing: what’s easiest for you. Remember, it’s always about the company and the connections—not the mechanics of the meal.
Recently, I picked up a copy of the 1950s Betty Crocker’s Picture Cookbook, and tucked inside was a section called Types of Table Service for Dinner Parties. It was too fun not to share.
So let’s take a quick stroll through dinner party history.
🍗 English (or Family) Service
This style was considered most suitable for the average family.
Food is served at the table by the host or hostess. The host serves the meat and vegetables from serving dishes placed in front of them, while the hostess handles dessert and coffee. Plates are then passed around to guests.
If this sounds familiar, it’s because many of us grew up with some version of this at home.
🍽️ Russian Service
This one is… a little more formal—and very much of its time.
The book notes that Russian service is “not adaptable to servantless households” (which tells you exactly when this was written). In this style, the host and hostess don’t serve at all. Food is plated in the kitchen and brought to each guest, or presented on platters for guests to serve themselves.
Formal? Yes. Practical for most of us today? Not so much.
🥗 Compromise (or Mixed) Service
My personal favorite—because it’s realistic.
This approach combines the two styles. The main course is served at the table, while soup, salad, and dessert are served directly from the kitchen. It’s flexible, efficient, and honestly feels very modern.
🥂 The Takeaway
No matter what the 1950s had to say, the truth is this: there are no set rules.
You can plate in the kitchen.
You can serve family-style.
You can mix and match depending on the night.
What matters most is that the evening feels warm, welcoming, and memorable—for you and your guests.
✨ Subscribe so you don’t miss more real-world entertaining tips and weekly recipes.
✨ Forward this email to a friend who love to entertain.
✨ Follow along for easy menus, decor ideas, and ways to make every gathering feel special, joyful and authentic.
✨ Download Dinner Party Menus here: MENUS
✨ Shop my kitchen here: SHOP
✨ Grab what you need at a discount: HOST
✨ Earn some extra income while you’re at it: SELL
✨ Watch what I’m making for dinner every day on Instagram
✨ Join my Slice, Dice & Dish Community on Facebook
Here’s to doing what works, skipping what doesn’t, and enjoying the people around your table
Cheers,
Colleen 🥂
Published by