Looking to elevate your at-home gatherings? Top chefs from renowned hotels and resorts across the country offer their expert advice on creating memorable experiences without the stress.

Simplify Your Menu

Resist the urge to overcomplicate your menu. Executive Chef Rodney Rivera of the Historic Hotel Bethlehem suggests focusing on a few exceptional dishes rather than numerous mediocre ones. Guests will appreciate quality over quantity. Streamlining your menu also makes planning and preparation more manageable.

Chef Timothy Wedell of Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk recommends prepping your menu over several days. "On the day of your event, you should be building, heating and garnishing only." Cold items like salads, dips, and charcuterie can be prepared the day before.

Room-temperature items can be assembled and garnished the day of, while hot items should be cooked and plated just before serving.

Beverage Strategy

Chef Wedell advises creating a beverage plan. Prepare a signature cocktail and a non-alcoholic version. Offer a curated selection of wines and beers, ensuring a variety of options without overwhelming guests. "This is a party, not a tavern," he reminds us.

Seasonal and Local

Chef Damon Gordon of Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows emphasizes using fresh, seasonal ingredients from local markets. He suggests classic combinations like burrata with heirloom tomatoes or melon and prosciutto, noting that "simple, classic dishes are always crowd pleasers." Embrace the vibrant colors of seasonal produce to create visually appealing dishes.

Embrace the Grill

Chef Gordon recommends utilizing your grill for outdoor cooking whenever possible. Grilled fish with lemon and olive oil is a simple yet elegant option. When grilling meats, allow them to come to room temperature before cooking and avoid seasoning too early to retain moisture.

Encourage a communal atmosphere by serving salads and vegetables family-style.

Focus on the Guest Experience

Chef Kyung Soo Carroll of The Resort at Pelican Hill suggests grilling for casual gatherings. Individual steaks, chicken breasts, shrimp, and vegetables are ideal for this setting. Set up a self-serve bar area to encourage mingling. For sit-down affairs, opt for family-style service to simplify plating. Larger cuts of meat like prime rib or pork loin can efficiently feed a crowd. Consider purchasing desserts from a local bakery to further reduce your workload.