The food served for a rowdy 21st birthday is going to be very simple. It needs to involve little more than calling a local restaurant. However, sometimes a small gathering or just dinner for two is more to the taste of the guest of honor.
When this is the case, an intimate candlelight dinner is fine. The menu should reflect the guest of honor’s favorite foods. If it’s burgers or pizza, then they’ll need a considerable upgrade. Try this. Ask the butcher for the best cut of steak within the budget. Ask for it ground like a hamburger. Mix that in equal parts with the best fresh burger. Ask the baker to order fresh hamburger buns. Then make those burgers better than any other burger you’ve ever had! Use only the best fresh ingredients and serve all ingredients in a bar made to order. If pizza is your favorite food, try the same tactic. Use the best cheeses, meats and sauces available. Serve with a salad that would be a meal in itself.
When the 21st birthday party is the more casual kind, use only disposable and paper party supplies. 21st birthday party guests are still young at heart and can enjoy the type of menu that they have loved during their youth. Bowls of chips and packaged salsa are still expected. They might even appreciate candy dishes brimming with childhood favorites. With this crowd, though, introduce the deli sandwich platter. A good selection of meats and cheeses will quickly disappear as will the contents of the pickle tray. A similar fate can await cut vegetables, usually broccoli, carrots, celery, and cauliflower.
Dress up the rented house or hall with colorful birthday banners! And don’t forget the birthday cake.