Buffet v set menu (restaurant party booking)

[DinkeyDonkey]

Booking a restaurant for a birthday meal.

Would you assume the set menu is better quality than the buffet option, bearing in mind the set menu is slightly more expensive per person it there is less choice than you get on the buffet.

Have you got an example menu? Buffets can be good and be cost effective because the venue just has to get it out onto the tables, lots can be plated up in advance and really saves on staffing costs. But some places take the piss and serve up heaps of beige food.

I think buffets bring out the worst in people, I prefer a set menu.
It's also easier to cater for any fussy eaters - buffets can get stripped of food intended for them.

Depends what the buffet options are

As PP have said, depends on the restaurant. With a typical western type restaurant I would say set menu to avoid 1000 shades of beige and insipid. If it was Middle Eastern or Indian I would be more tempted by buffet.

It also depends on how courteous your guests will act, if you can trust them to take their fair share in a buffet scenario. And how easily dietary needs (if relevant) will be covered by a buffet.