When you’re planning an event, figuring out what to feed everyone is usually the last thing you want to deal with—and somehow the most stressful. You’ve got to think about dietary requirements, how to get people mixing instead of sitting in awkward silences, and yes, how to avoid sticking someone in that lonely chair at the end of the table that doesn’t face anyone and basically feels like exile with a side of potato salad.

So naturally, the go-to move is setting up a shared food table where everyone can pick and choose, grab what they like, and float between convos without a seating plan. If you’re leaning towards a standing-style event (read: no three-course formal dining), you’re probably tossing up between a buffet and finger food. 

There’s no denying it — buffets have that “wow” factor. A whole table lined with dishes, hot and cold, ready for your guests to load up their plates. It feels generous, abundant, and a bit flashy. And it’s true: buffets make it easy to tick all the dietary boxes in one go. From roast meats to vegan pasta, everyone can find something to munch on.

But here’s the thing: behind that impressive spread is a whole lot of work. Even if you’re not cooking everything from scratch, you’re still spending hours prepping, heating, plating, and making sure everything looks “effortless” (even though your kitchen says otherwise). And let’s not talk about the dishes. Big ones. Small ones. Serving spoons. Tongs. All of it ends up in your sink.

Then, there’s the logistics. Buffets are fab… if everyone has a seat. If not? Well, now you’ve got guests balancing heavy plates and full cutlery sets while trying to make small talk on the lawn. It’s less “elegant dinner” and more “foodie juggling act.”

If buffets are the big show, finger food is the laid-back crowd charmer. Think mini pies, sliders, skewers, savoury bites and sweet treats—all designed to be eaten easily, without the need for cutlery or a seat. Perfect for stand-up functions, finger food encourages guests to move, mingle and graze at their own pace.

One of the biggest drawcards? It’s versatile. You can go casual with bakery classics or dress things up with more gourmet-style bites. Either way, you’re offering variety without needing an entire table’s worth of hot dishes. Presentation is easy too—just load up a few platters, sprinkle on a garnish or two, and you’re good to go.

Of course, finger food isn’t entirely fuss-free. You’ll still need to plan for quantity (those little bites disappear fast) and make sure your selection is filling enough to keep guests satisfied. But when done well, finger food can absolutely hold its own as a complete and crowd-pleasing catering choice.

Well, it all depends on your event. If you’re hosting a longer function where people will want a proper feed—and you’ve got the space and seating to make it work—a buffet might be the way to go. It offers plenty of food, plenty of choice, and a sense of occasion. 

But if you’re after something more social, flexible, and easier to manage (and clean up), finger food is a strong contender. It brings variety, flavour and fun to the table—without the mountain of washing up.

Whichever you choose, the key is keeping your guests well-fed, relaxed and enjoying themselves. Plus, there’s no rule saying you can’t mix and match—start with a grazing-style finger food spread, then roll out a small buffet for those who want a little extra. 

Our pro-tip to ensure everyone is happy and well-fed? Ensure you have some Pinjarra Bakery goods on the table. Pop a tray of our golden, flaky pies out, and just watch the party come alive. Our pies and rolls are the kind of crowd-pleasers that disappear in seconds, no matter what else is on the menu.

Buffet or finger food—whichever way you’re leaning, one thing’s for sure: if there are Pinjarra Bakery goods on the table, your party is already winning.

With an irresistible lineup of pies, rolls, sandos, quiches and more, we’ve got everything you need to keep your guests well-fed and grinning from ear to ear. Whether you’re catering for meat-lovers, veggie fans, or that one mate who only turns up for dessert, our variety of platters has something for everyone.

From our Classic Savouries and Party Mix to Gourmet Baguettes platters, each one is packed with flavour, variety and that signature Pinjarra Bakery goodness. And for those chasing something sweet, our Sweet Tooth Platter is loaded with Aussie dessert classics that never disappoint.

No matter the occasion, big or small, we’ve got the perfect platter to help you serve up a seriously tasty spread—with zero stress.

When you trust Pinjarra Bakery to feed your crowd, you’re not just putting a certified crowd-pleaser on the table—you’re supporting a community of local farmers and growers who help us bring the freshest, highest-quality ingredients to every bake. We don’t mean to brag (okay, maybe just a little), but our pies have been crowned Australia’s best. Just sayin’.

Catering made easy. Flavour made legendary. Order now.