Cocktail party food ideas: 220 hot and cold pieces for 40 guests, priced

Cocktail party food is a standing, one-handed menu of small hot and cold pieces. For 40 guests over two hours, we plan about 2 to 3 pieces per guest per hour, which is 160 to 240 pieces. Four trays cover it with 220 pieces for $307 before tax, under $8 a guest: Jumbo Chilled Shrimp, Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus Spears, Bacon Wrapped Dates and Rumaki. We make the food. We do not sell alcohol or cocktails.

The four-tray menu for 40 guests

• Jumbo Chilled Shrimp with Zesty Cocktail Sauce, 60 pieces, $95
• Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus Spears, 60 pieces, $74
• Bacon Wrapped Dates, 40 pieces, $74
• Rumaki, 60 pieces, $64

That is 60 + 60 + 40 + 60 = 220 pieces, for $95 + $74 + $74 + $64 = $307. That works out to 220 pieces for 40 guests, or 5½ pieces each. Add 9.25% sales tax. The shrimp, asparagus and dates are gluten-free, and the shrimp are also dairy-free. The shrimp are the only item with shellfish, so label them. If you are curious what rumaki is, read our rumaki guide.

The two hot trays, dates and rumaki, need warming. Two chafing dishes at $17 each add $34, and they are yours to keep.

Pick by how the party runs

One hour, drinks and mingling. Two or three trays are enough. Choose a cold one and a hot one.

Two hours, no dinner. Use the four-tray menu above, or add more cold items such as Antipasto Kabobs, 50 pieces, $74.

Dinner follows. Cut back. Two trays and a Cheese & Sausage Tray, 120 pieces, $79.

More hot and cold options

Hot trays:

• Open Faced Mini Grilled Reubens, 28 pieces, $64
• Mini Italian Sausage Kebabs, 60 pieces, $74
• Crabmeat Stuffed Mushrooms, $69
• Cocktail Meatballs, 100 pieces, $64
• Boneless Wings, 60 pieces, $69
• Chicken Drummettes, 120 pieces, $100

Cold platters:

• Smoked Salmon with Cream Cheese & Party Rye, $80
• Bruschetta with Garlic Toast Points, 60 pieces, $45
• Assorted Finger Sandwiches, 60 pieces, $89

Tell us the mix you are picturing and we will check the piece count against your guest list.

What to drink without a bar from us

We do not sell alcohol, so bring your own if you serve it. We can supply the rest. Iced Tea, Punch or Lemonade is $89 for 50 servings, cups included. Soft Drinks and Bottled Water are $2.49 each. Coffee is $89 for 50 servings.

Serving a cocktail party

• Put food in two places so guests do not clump.
• Use small plates and napkins. Disposable Appetizer Plates & Napkins are $0.99 a person.
• Add staff for bigger events. Servers are $35 an hour with a 4-hour minimum, a $50 event production fee and 20% service charge, and staffed events need 14 days' notice.
• Tray orders need 3 days' notice, with no minimum.

For more standing-party ideas, see the finger food ideas guide and our catered appetizers guide. Our fundraisers and galas page covers larger receptions. Call (630) 553-9533 or send the details through the quote form.

Questions

How many appetizers per person for a cocktail party?

Plan 2 to 3 pieces per guest per hour. For 40 guests over two hours, 160 to 240 pieces.

Do you serve cocktails?

No. We do not sell alcohol. We make the food and provide iced tea, punch, lemonade, coffee, soft drinks and water.

Can you do hot and cold together?

Yes. Order hot and cold trays together, with chafing dishes at $17 for the hot ones.