Buffets can provide increased socialization and conversation among seniors. They also help tenants feel a little more independent in that they have choices, and many aging tenants benefit from being able to physically see their choices. Buffets offer a great way to do something special for holidays and special events such as Easter and Mother’s Day, and they also offer a great opportunity to try new recipes and get feedback.
Successful breakfast buffets!
- Use measured utensils for service to control portions.
- Offer several mid-level cost items and low cost items and one higher cost item.
- Have plenty of staff (dietary and nursing) for assisting residents.
- Set the buffet up in the middle of the room to allow access from both sides, if possible.
- Serve beverages tableside.
- Line foods up by temperature beginning with cold and moving toward warm entrees.
- Napkins and silverware should be on the tables or at the end of the buffet.
- Plates should be at the beginning.
- Several round tables make interesting buffets when divided into stations such as salads, entrees and sides and finally desserts.
- If your buffet is for a special event, complete it with decorations and activities. Many decorations are available through Martin Bros., and our Theme Meal Magic resource may give you some inspiration for adding in a little more fun. Theme Meal Magic is available at https://customer.martinbros.com/ under the Resources tab.
