what dishes do you love/hate to see on a buffet?

[lilolilmanchester]

I LOVE cooking and feeding friends, even if a crowd. Am just working on food for a party in November (yes, I know, a long way off but have lots of other commitments inbetween). So... if you are an experienced caterer/party goer, what would you definitely "do" and definitely "not do"... for example, couscous is dead cheap, easy to cook and you can add lovely things like roast veg... but no one eats it......... that's the kind of hint I am after.

FWIW, menu so far looks like:

salmon
coronation chicken
mixed meat platters
mixed cheese platters

bean salad
watermelon, feta and olive salad
butternut squash and chickpea salad

variety of other salads... green/tomato/pasta etc etc

(don't worry about desserts, totally sorted in that area) thanks in anticipation

Coronation chicken always looks like a bowl of vomit to me. Sorry! :)

Pork terrine or a picnic pie like this With nice pickle and crusty bread

Tandoori chicken drumsticks

Gougères

Tartlets with assorted fillings

I think samosas, onion bhajis, and spring rolls always disappear quick at a hot buffet!

Another vote for clearly labelling stuff.

As a veggie, buffets can be a nightmare because it is so hard to figure out what is veggie just by looking.

lizziwig, liking the sound of that salad... point noted re labelling, especially re vegetarian options.... sorry, I love Coronation Chicken so tis still in, but will ensure there alternatives for those who don't fancy the "bowls of vomit" (!) ... no chance of doing hot food - what do people think about cold bahjis/samosas/spring rolls... not sure (OK by me but I'll eat anything.... )

Really appreciating all the feedback, keep it coming :-)