Grazing Tables: Everything You Need To Know

So, you’ve probably heard about grazing tables on Instagram and TikTok – and it is clear that these are all the rage these days, right? But why are they such a hit right now? And what is the process for booking one for an upcoming event?

Our expert grazing-table-makers are here to help! We’ve been creating gorgeous foodie spreads since 2022, and have catered for weddings, hen dos, baby showers, and everything in between!

What is a Grazing Table?

A grazing table is a beautiful spread of food that has been styled to look just as good as it tastes! Most commonly, they  include fancy cheeses and meats, as well as seasonal fruits and crudites, dips, and more! Depending on the grazing table that you go for, a grazing table might also include salads, sandwiches, bagels, and individual canapés, and even sweet treats like cookie platters. The food is styled with foliage, and stands of different heights to make the food stand out.

A grazing table is best suited for casual events, where guests are encouraged to nibble over the course of a few hours, rather than sitting down for a formal three-course meal.

What Are Grazing Tables Used For?

Grazing tables are typically used to feed a large crowd at more casual events whilst offering a ‘wow’ factor compared to a traditional buffet. The most popular events that we create grazing tables for include:

• Weddings
• Birthday parties
• Hen-dos
• Conferences
• Get-togethers with friends & family

What is the Difference Between a Grazing Table and Charcuterie Board?

The distinction between a grazing table and a charcuterie board lies primarily in their size. A grazing table is essentially a giant charcuterie board, depending on what it is filled with – and it’s intended to feed a much bigger crowd. Charcuterie boards offer a wide selection of meats, cheeses, crudites, fruits, chutneys, and are garnished with fresh herbs and flowers – like most grazing tables.

However, some grazing tables (like the ones we offer at Savery Grazing) may also include beautifully styled sandwiches, bagels, salads, and other canapés, which you wouldn’t find on a charcuterie board.

To learn more about charcuterie/grazing boards, read our helpful blog: What is a Grazing Board & Why Are They Popular?

 

What is the Difference Between a Grazing Table and a Buffet?

Whilst both grazing tables and buffets involve a spread of food for guests to help themselves, there are distinct differences between the two:

• Presentation: A grazing table is a visually stunning display, meticulously styled with an emphasis on the overall ‘vibe’. In contrast, a buffet typically involves serving dishes lined up on tables for guests to serve themselves.
• Interaction: Grazing tables encourage a communal and interactive dining experience, as guests gather around the table to graze and chat. Buffets, on the other hand, often involve a more straightforward serving process.
• Variety: Grazing tables prioritise an abundant variety of small, colourful bites. Buffets may offer a variety of dishes but are often more straightforward in presentation, and tend to lean towards foods that are very beige in colour!

To learn more about what is usually included, read our helpful blog: What To Put On a Cheese Board + Styling Tips!

 

The History Of Grazing Tables

Grazing tables aren’t just some new fad – they’ve been around for much longer than you might realise! The popular ‘grazing’ trend originated in Australia and New Zealand, where it has been popular since the 2010s. However, the concept of ‘grazing’ in the UK only became popular in 2019, and it is now a staple part of our catering services!

Booking a Grazing Table For Your Event

To book a grazing table for your event, provide your caterer with the following details, and they’ll work with you to coordinate setup and disassembly:

• Event type & location
• Date & time of the event
• Number of guests
• Your budget
• Food to be included

How Many People Does a Grazing Table Serve?

Grazing tables are usually reserved for larger events, however, they can also be condensed for more intimate gatherings. Our grazing tables can serve anywhere from 10 – 100 guests, but can be made to feed more if required.

How Much Does a Grazing Table Cost?

On average, you should expect to pay anywhere between £15-20 per person for a grazing table. Some companies charge based on the length of the food display itself, however, this often leads to overpaying for food that you don’t need.

The specific cost of a grazing table depends on a number of factors, including:

• If you choose to DIY it or hire a catering company
• The cost of the food
• Any special requests & requirements
• How far away the venue is 
• The addition of fresh foliage

Looking for a tailored quote for your grazing table? Get in touch with a member of our team for help.

Setting Up a Grazing Table

Setting up a grazing table is much harder than it looks on Instagram, and takes hours of work from start to finish. Here are the answers to some the most frequently asked questions about setting up your grazing table:

How Long Does it Take To Make a Grazing Table?

Setting up a grazing table at the location of your event takes anywhere between one and three hours – this will depend on the size of your spread. However, this is not the only work that is involved! The day and morning of your event is spent making salads, assembling sandwiches, chopping cheese, arranging crudites, and much more, ensuring a seamless on-site setup. For example, if you’re creating your own grazing table for 30 guests, expect to spend 5+ hours prepping beforehand.

How Long Can a Grazing Table Stay Out?

High-risk foods such as meat and cheeses should stay at room temperature for no more than four hours. So, if the setup of the grazing table takes one hour, then the food shouldn’t stay out for more than three hours. At Savery Grazing, we transport and store any refrigerated food in cool bags right up until they are needed – meaning you can enjoy your grazing spread for longer!

Cleaning Up After a Grazing Table

Here’s how you disassemble your grazing table once your event is finished:

1. Remove any uneaten food (when you book with Savery Grazing, the quantity of food per person is carefully calculated to minimise food waste and offer easy cleanup).
2. Pop any platters/plates/boards in the dishwasher or sink and give them a good scrub to remove crumbs and sticky debris. Leave to dry.
3. Protective greaseproof paper should have been used as a barrier between the food and table – fold this carefully and throw it away.
4. If needed, give the table a quick wipe and hoover the surrounding floor space.
5. Done! If you’ve hired an external caterer, they will collect the equipment at a convenient time for you.

 

Professional Grazing Table Catering From Savery Grazing

Level up your event catering with help from Savery Grazing. From weddings to corporate gatherings, birthdays to intimate soirées, we’ll curate stunning spreads that are bound to impress each and every one of your guests. 

Contact us today to discuss your event needs and let us bring your vision to life

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