Dessert after dinner?

Question

I'm thinking of throwing a dinner party. Do I serve dessert immediately after dinner before the guests get up from the table, or do I wait, let them walk around and mingle/socialize, and then call them back to the table for dessert? I really don't know--never been to a 'real' dinner party!

And what if I have a man over for dinner? Same thing?

Answer 1

Normally, I have a bit of a break (not too long) between the main course and the dessert. It is nice to sit and talk before offering dessert, maybe 10 - 15 minutes or so. The main plates, silver and glassware can be removed from the table, and then make the coffee while you getting the dessert ready. Some people might like to step outside for a cigarette. Frankly, I find that I need a bit of time before starting to eat again and to allow my stomach to settle a bit.

Sure, same thing for a man (unless he is ravenously hungry. LOL)

Answer 2

You can do either way.

My personal preference is to at the end of the meal say something like, "Why don't you all get up and stretch your legs for a minute, and I will serve dessert in a few minutes." That way - everyone can get up, walk around, visit, go to the bathroom, etc, and it gives you time to clear the table of the dinner dishes, make coffee.

Then you will need to set dessert plates, clean forks or spoons, (fresh napkins unless you have placecards so you know where everyone sat before) and coffee cups or fresh glasses. Then call everyone in for your fabulous dessert.

I really like that way better, because it gives you an opportunity to clear the dinner plates, tidy up the table and then gives you the grand finale of the dessert!

Answer 3

I would encourage guests to stay at chat at the dinner table and maybe serve dessert approx 40 mins after everyone has finished dinner. After dessert you can serve a cheese and fruit platter, maybe in another room where guests can mingle.

Answer 4

It all very much depends upon personal preference, and also just how formal the dinner party is.

As a general rule, you should serve the dessert fairly promptly after the main course.

You may want to check this link for more dinner etiquette tips:
http://www.gourmet-food-revolution.com/dinner-table-etiquette.html

Answer 5

How fun, your first dinner party!!! Usually, folks are not anxious to bite into their dessert immediately following a meal. It's a good time to go back into party central, eg. living room, to sit down and enjoy some good conversation. This will give you time to ask who drinks coffee, tea, etc. and to get those started. Rule of thumb for my dinner parties is to ask if folks are ready about 20 - 30 minutes after the meal ends.

Answer 6

I think most people really enjoy their food and prefer to wait and
let the appetite come back before dessert. I usually wait and one of the group will say, that pie, or that cake sure looks good!! Then it's time to dig in.

Answer 7

Dont wait until they stand up

Just ask after everyone finishes dinner who would like dessert

Answer 8

I would ask everyone if they are ready for dessert, they may want to wait a little bit to let there dinner settle first.

Answer 9

if your having a couple of friends over then i would let them socialize for a bit, but if theres alot of people then i would still let them have a little 'break' by socializing at the table while you go get dessert.
good luck

Answer 10

first let everyone eat dinner ,then clean up all the dishes make sure everyone is still sitting at the table then bring out the desert