A common concern for most of our wedding and social event clients is how to offer the best menu that will appeal to all of their guest’s appetites WITHOUT breaking the bank!  Luckily, the ladies at Lesner Inn are experts in this department and our catering menu has a variety of menu options so there is something for everyone!

The Lesner Inn has three menu options for clients to choose from, this includes: plated, buffet, and stations.  Pricing varies between weddings and social events, but our tips and tricks below ring true for any type of event!

Plated Menu
Before we go into what we think works best for a plated meal, let’s first identify the three options that you have when selecting this menu option.

_{Right: Echard Wheeler Photography}

• Single entrée plated meal: This is one of the simplest options where each of your guests will get the same plate with the same entrée.
• Dual entrée plated meal: This is also a simple option that also gives your guests a bit of variety.  Each guest will receive the same plate, but on that plate will be two entrées.  Who doesn’t love a little surf and turf?  No drama.  No hassle.
• Multiple entrée plated meal: A plated meal with multiple entrees requires that you receive each of your guests menu preferences in advance, create a seating chart, have place cards for each of your guests, and select meal signifiers to identify which guests will be receiving chicken, fish, beef, etc.  Many people are deterred from this option when they realize how much more work it can be.

Only you know which of these options will work best for your guests.  The type of menu that you select is a personal preference, there is no right answer!  Plated menus are great for groups large and small but, in our experience, appeal to the majority in the form of a dual entrée meal.

Buffet Menu
When selecting a menu that will appeal to as many people as possible, our top choice will always be buffet style.  With this menu option, you are able to choose a two or three entrée buffet and allow your guests to choose what they’d like on their plate, and how much of it.  If you know you have picky eaters in the mix, we highly recommend this option!

_{Left: Tara Liebeck Photography}

Stations Menu
Similar to buffet style, our stations menu allows your guests to walk through and select which menu items they would like on their plate.  The difference is that many of the menu options are at a chef attended station where a Lesner Inn staff member will be sautéing, flipping, or carving food right in front of your guests. Many people opt for this menu style if they prefer to dress up their buffet and of course it adds a bit of extra entertainment to the event.

No matter which menu style you choose, the catering at Lesner Inn is some of the best in the business if we do say so ourselves.  If you don’t believe us, just check out our stellar reviews on The Knot, WeddingWire, Facebook, and on our website.

For more information about events and catering at Lesner Inn, contact us at info@lesnerinn.com or 757-481-1122.