Whenever you host an event, no matter how big or small, the goal as the event planner is always to make it unforgettable for every guest. Start your party on the right foot with a selection of delicious and unique appetizers to excite the palate and elevate the experience. Sharing appetizers at the start of an event is a great opportunity for your guests to interact with one another and prepare for the remainder of what’s to come. We dive into some tasty appetizer ideas and how to serve them that will set the tone for a fantastic event.
Creative & Practical Ways to Serve Appetizers at an Event
Before we explore some of our favorite appetizers, let’s talk about the many different ways they can be served. Every party or event has its differences. Different styles, different layouts, different crowds, etc.
The great thing about appetizers is that there are several creative and practical ways your catering partners can serve them.
- Passed Hors d'Oeuvres: servers offer bite-sized appetizers on trays as they circulate the event.
- Interactive Snack Stations: a themed table is set up so guests can create and assemble their own appetizers.
- Family-Style Platters: Each table has a variety of appetizer platters. Guests can pass the platters around the table and serve themselves.
- Individually Plated Appetizers: guests receive a pre-portioned appetizer plate.
- Buffet Spread: a large table is set up with a variety of appetizers, and guests help themselves.
1. Antipasto Kabob with Mozzarella
The antipasto kabob with mozzarella skewers features fire-roasted tomatoes, complemented by the delicate flavors of Kalamata olives, fresh mozzarella, and marinated artichoke hearts. These ingredients are arranged on a 6” skewer for guests to enjoy as they network and mingle.
2. Sriracha Chicken Meatball
These Asian-style meatballs are coated in a bold glaze, blending fiery Sriracha with the sweetness of clover honey. Serve them up on a bamboo skewer for easy consumption.
3. Goat Cheese & Salami Stuffed Dates
These goat cheese-stuffed dates are unbeatable, paired with thinly sliced Calabrese or Calabrian salami for the ideal spicy, salty contrast. Other ingredients include chopped pistachios, grated lemon zest, and drizzled honey.
4. Mini Lobster Rolls
Serve up sweet and luscious lobster meat tossed with a lemon-dill mayo, stuffed into buttery brioche rolls for a luxurious bite-sized treat. It’ll bring an elevated lobster delight without overpowering the menu.
5. Baked Oysters with Bacon, Greens, & Parmesan
Fresh oysters are topped with a blend of bacon, kale (or collards), and parmesan, then baked at high heat until the topping is bubbly and golden. The oysters cook lightly, curling at the edges, while the bacon-kale mixture adds richness, complemented by a touch of lemon.
6. Fig Flatbread
This delicious flatbread features a thin, crisp crust that is baked until golden. It’s the perfect base for the sweet and savory toppings of caramelized onions, figs, and crumbled goat cheese.
7. Baked Brie with Pomegranate & Pistachios
Take your brie to the next level with a pomegranate reduction, chopped pistachios, fresh thyme, and pomegranate seeds for a vibrant and elegant appetizer.
8. Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
The stuffed mushrooms are made with cream cheese, cheddar, parmesan, pimientos, parsley, garlic, and tender crab meat. Topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs and fresh parsley, each mushroom is packed with creamy crab goodness and a satisfying crunch.
9. Carmelized Onion & Bacon Dip
This dip takes inspiration from classic French onion soup, featuring rich caramelized onions and plenty of melty cheese. It’s a far cry from the packet of onion dip you may remember from childhood, offering a much more elevated flavor experience.
10. Vegetarian Sushi Cups
Vegetarian sushi cups are simple to make and irresistibly cute; no sushi mat required. These two-bite appetizers are prepared in muffin tins, making them easy to assemble, and you can skip the raw fish altogether.
Check Out Some of NYC’s Best Catering Vendors at the Event Planner Expo 2025!
Catering options, such as appetizers, are an important part of planning any New York event. It sets the tone, encourages socializing among the guests, helps to pace the event, and elevates the entire guest experience. Don’t miss this year’s Event Planner Expo happening, October 14th to 16th, 2025, and network with some of the city’s best catering vendors on the trade show floor. This three-day event is the perfect place for event planners to network with industry leaders and establish future partnerships with vendors and other event services. Grow your business at New York City's #1 Networking Event and Trade Show. Secure your tickets today!
