Buffet table setup
The table itself matters as much as the food. A sturdy folding table and a cover give you a clean base. Risers add height so guests see every dish. Mesh covers keep bugs off food outside.
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Folding tables
- Best for the main buffet tableBest Choice Products 6 foot folding table
A plastic folding table with a carry handle that seats or serves a crowd.
Check price on Amazon → - Best for storing in a closetOur Modern Space 6 foot folding table
A table that folds in half with a built in handle and steel legs.
Check price on Amazon → - Best for camping and backyard useBonnlo 6 foot folding table
A white plastic table that folds for travel.
Check price on Amazon → - Best for a second food or drink tableVINGLI 6 foot plastic folding table
A rectangular folding table for indoor or outdoor use.
Check price on Amazon → - Best for guests eating outsideSweetcrispy 6 foot folding picnic table
A folding picnic style table that packs flat.
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Table covers
- Best for covering several 6 or 8 foot tablesAuros white plastic tablecloths 10 pack
Ten disposable covers sized 54 by 108 inches.
Check price on Amazon → - Best for a darker look that hides spillsMisaya black plastic tablecloths 6 pack
Disposable black table covers.
Check price on Amazon → - Best for protecting a nice table underneathWalrus clear vinyl table protector
A clear waterproof sheet that lets the wood show through.
Check price on Amazon → - Best for wiping clean between usessancua clear plastic table cover
A clear waterproof cover sized 54 by 78 inches.
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Buffet risers
- Best for lifting small plates and dessertsCerpourt clear acrylic risers 2 sets
Clear acrylic stands in three heights.
Check price on Amazon → - Best for labeling each dish tooQinzave white acrylic risers with mini signs
Ten white risers that come with small signs and a marker.
Check price on Amazon → - Best for catering style height on a buffetPecMuikee buffet risers
Display shelves that lift trays above the table.
Check price on Amazon → - Best for a rustic lookVecxoty wooden tiered risers 2 sets
Stackable wooden stands for cupcakes and small plates.
Check price on Amazon → - Best for heavier dishesihomecooker metal buffet risers set of 6
Six metal stands from 5 to 10 inches tall.
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Food covers
- Best for outdoor buffets with bugs aroundSimply Genius mesh food covers
Two jumbo and four large pop up mesh tents.
Check price on Amazon → - Best for covering single bowls and platesLauon mesh food tents 6 pack
Six 17 inch pop up mesh covers.
Check price on Amazon → - Best for long platters and sheet pansLETAAKA food cover tent set
Two extra large 40 inch tents plus six standard ones.
Check price on Amazon → - Best for cakes and tall dishesRindion tall mesh food covers 4 pack
Large and tall pop up covers that clear taller food.
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Food labels and tent cards
- Best for naming every dish on the buffetOleOletOy mini chalkboard signs 20 pack
Small framed chalkboards with easel stands.
Check price on Amazon → - Best for marking allergens and dish namesPigPotParty mini chalkboard food labels 12 pack
Small 4 by 3 inch chalkboard signs for a buffet.
Check price on Amazon → - Best for printing labels from your computerAvery printable tent cards
160 matte white tent cards you can print on.
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Guides that cover this gear
- How to Set Up a Party Buffet
Where to put the buffet table and what order the food goes in. How to keep hot food hot and cold food cold. The small details that stop queues and spills at a home party.
Photo: foshie, CC BY 2.0