Have you ever indulged in a breakfast buffet at high-end restaurants in India or abroad? What appeals to your eyes and makes you drool is not necessarily the food but how it is presented. From hot beverages to fresh juice to main dishes with accompaniments on the sides instantly makes you hungry.
Even if you are not a morning person, you will wake up early to devour the breakfast spread at hotels. Well, if you have guests at your home or you have invited friends or family over for breakfast, you can offer them a similar experience. Here are some easy tips for you to set the table.
Select A Clean Tablecloth
First, arrange a clean tablecloth and spread it uniformly across the table. You can also keep the table bare if the top flaunts a high-quality wood finish. Next, go around the table to set the mats and coasters. Since it's a morning spread, going with a pastel theme might be the best idea. It will help you set the welcoming vibes.
Tableware
At the centre of the table, place all the serveware. The main dishes like poha, upma, idli-sambar, pancake, sandwiches, omelettes, etc. should be arranged neatly with the lids closed so the food stays warm until it’s time to serve. Accompaniments like toast, boiled eggs, fruits, chutneys, spreads, butter, and more should be added on either side of the main dishes so that everyone can reach them.
Dinnerware
On each table mat, place the dinner plate topped with a quarter plate for side dishes and a bowl for cornflakes, mueslis, sambar, etc. This will allow guests to enjoy everything they like for breakfast. They can choose small servings of everything and enjoy a hearty meal in the morning.
Flatware
Next on the table comes flatware like spoons, forks, and knives. A knife is always added to the right of the plate with the blade facing the plate. The spoon goes to the right of the knife and the fork is placed on the left side of the plate. This arrangement makes it easy for the person to access everything in an organised fashion.
Glassware
A glass of water or fresh juice is always added above the knife, slightly right, so it is accessible without making a mess. If the breakfast menu includes hot coffee or tea, you can place a cup and saucer right above the plate. Similarly, napkins can be set either on the left side of the fork or inside the bowl on the quarter or dinner plate.
Condiments
For condiments like chutneys, spreads, and butter, you can always pick small trays so that they can easily be passed among guests. Colourful platters for these often add a touch of glamour to the spread and instantly catch eyes. You can also add decorative touches to the spread by adding fresh flowers, a neat bowl of diced fruits, and even placards.
Don’t forget to take into account the dietary preferences of your guests and family members while putting together a meal. You don’t have to put several dishes on the table, but you must ensure that it looks neat and welcoming to the people you have invited over.