Buffet dinner question

No, in a buffet people are going to take whatever, and probably a bit of both. Meal choices are for plated dinners.

You definitely don't need to give them food preferences but I would make sure you take any allergies/dietary restrictions and talk with your caterer about those.

I don't think you need to list the buffet options on the RSVP cards, since guests won't need to specify their choice ahead of time. I agree with Sarah about the food allergies or restrictions though - maybe add a line on the card that says something like, "Please inform us of any food allergies or dietary restrictions" (or add a line for people to write in any restrictions).

Not necessary at all. Even for a plated meal my personal preference is for orders to be taken at the table rather than on an RSVP card, if possible. Not all venues will accommodate that, though. and others will only if you ask. But for a buffet the whole idea is that people have choices.

No, it's not necessary with a buffet.

That’s not a buffet works. You talk to the caterer about serving 2-3+ (depending on your budget) main entree choices. They prepare enough food so that there is enough for the entire guest count to get each entree. Plus seconds or thirds depending on the caterer, because some caterers only allow one trip through the line unless you pay for unlimited. So if you have 100 guests and you pick chicken Parmesan and prime rib as your entrees, they will cook enough for a minimum of 120 servings of each, with the buffer included. The same goes for the sides: minimum 100 servings of each item.


The food choices for a buffet do not go on the rsvp because no guests are choosing ahead of time. But you do mention that you are serving dinner (as opposed to dessert only or heavy appetizers only which is more food quantity than dinner when done properly). Regardless of the meal service type, you do need to find out via rsvp card what dietary restrictions they have. This is either something they are forbidden by their religion or it is a food allergy. Not whatever fad diet they are on or being a picky eater.
It’s very helpful, though often discouraged, for menus to be placed at the table for guests to read before they go up to fill plates. This is in addition to tent cards in front of each item listing what it is and any potential allergens or other ingredients that someone needs to avoid. The menus on the table give guests a heads up so they can get through the line quickly, which resolves a major complaint of why people don’t like them.