How to host a dinner party

The end of the school year signals a change. Friends prepare to part ways to start a summer job, see family or embark on a travel adventure. This time of year is also the perfect time to gather, reminisce and share a meal.

During my childhood, my mom would often host large dinners for family and friends, so when I arrived at university, it felt natural to continue the practice.

Over almost three years of living off-campus, I’ve learned how to host large groups of fellow students. With five other roommates, we tend to over-invite. 

The planning phase

The first step of hosting any party is to set the date. Check to make sure you don’t have any important assignments due the day before or after.

Then, gather your roommates to determine the guest list. Is this a large, casual or more intimate gathering? Then, decide the vibe. Some options include: a sit-down dinner, drinks and snacks, or a potluck.

Have fun with the invites. It could be a simple text message to a group chat, or a cute poster made on Canva. Just make sure to include the time (about an hour before you want to eat), and if you want the guests to bring anything (drinks, desserts, appetizers). 

Setting the menu

Once you have a sense of the numbers, decide what you’re making and consider who to delegate tasks to. A potluck has the advantage of cooking less yourself, but it always feels a little risky for me. I try to commit to one main dish and ask my roommates or a few trusty friends to bring a side or dessert. 

I aim for something that can please everyone — be aware of allergies and food restrictions. It’s also smart to have something that can be prepared in advance and is easy to share. Common favourites like spaghetti and meatballs, pulled pork sandwiches, burgers, roast chicken and pierogi are a safe choice. 

Prepping the meal and the house

The day before, get all your ingredients (more than you think you need), alcohol for yourself and more than a couple of bottles of wine for guests.

On the day of the dinner, start cooking as early as possible. Clean the house and set everything up well in advance of everyone’s arrival. For the beginning of the party, you don’t need a whole bread and cheese plate, but have chips and something else, like olives or nuts, so there’s something for people to snack on when they arrive.

Music is important. Prepare a playlist or stick someone on aux while you wait for guests to arrive. A deck of cards is also good to have on hand to help entertain.

Once everyone has arrived, wait about 30 minutes for people to settle in before serving the food. Realistically, you’ll end up eating 45 to 50 minutes after your set time, but this depends on how late your friends are. For guests, I would say it’s polite to be 10 to 20 minutes late; any later than 30 is rude. 

Once most people are done eating, start to clear and stack the plates. Don’t worry about washing the dishes unless you need them for dessert. Allow people to relax, and when it seems like they’re waiting, bring out the dessert.

Once dessert is served, relax, fill your glass to the brim and enjoy.