How beautiful is this set up! I’m always captivated when I see food displayed so attractively. People are just so incredibly creative.
Each tiny cup cake and mini tart is lovely on its own. When grouped together, they just look so elegant and inviting. Add to it the clever plating, the neatly placed glasses of pink lemonade and the props, I just stood there, feasting on its presentation. I just love it.
I first became aware of banquet presentation at lunch buffets in five star restaurants in Singapore in the 70s. I observed that even very simple foods, like bread, or different kinds of vegetables for a salad, can be presented so invitingly.
This was an eye opener for me. It was such a contrast from home parties for family gatherings. In my childhood when we went to Popo’s or other relatives’ homes for lunch or dinner, the delicious food was just placed at the table. No fuss, no muss. A stack of bowls and a pile of chopsticks were usually placed unceremoniously at the side. No table mats, no table cloths, no napkins. We loved those meals.
Today, with growing affluence the elegance of feasting starts with sight. Today, many hosts–not just professionals–take pride in displaying their food beautifully. I’ve certainly seen many instances of this in our communities. I appreciate it so much and can always learn a lot about food presentation from these creative hosts.
These photos were taken at my church where tables were set up in appreciation of volunteers. I was especially impressed by the decorations–drawn from simple, everyday household props making it so cosy and welcoming.
