March 28th, 2004

Mint Sterling

Entertaining Goes Unpretentious With Gourmet Cheesecake and Coffee

It is certainly not time to declare the old fashioned cocktail party of the mid-twentieth century a thing of a previous era, but there is a noticeable trend in entertaining toward less formal events. Think of Clark Gable or Fred Astaire, dressed in their tuxedos; or picture Ginger Rogers in her flowing gown. They gathered in an opulent estate, sipped martinis and waltzed through the night. Can you really imagine your friends, neighbors or family members relaxing in such an environment and actually enjoying it?

Gourmet coffee accompanied by a piece of creamy cheesecake better exemplifies contemporary times. That combination seems much better suited to an era in which men have discovered that an open collar is much more comfortable than a bow tie, studs and cumber bund. Furthermore, the cost for such an event can remain well under the cost of several bottles of imported gin, a little vermouth and caviar served with gold spoons.

The bakery around the corner has perfectly edible cheesecake, perhaps purchased from a local distributor, but you might want to opt for something a bit more titillating to the taste buds of your friends. You can have gourmet cheesecake delivered to your door the day before your event from as far away as across the country.

Consider a selection of cheesecakes to meet the varied tastes of your guests. You might want to include a turtle cheesecake for the people who enjoy a bit of chocolate in any dessert. You can decorate with just a few shavings of dark chocolate, and all the people can pretend that they are eating a health food.

A key lime cheesecake, provides a welcome alternative for those of us who enjoy combining tart and sweet. Think about a couple mint leaves as a garnish.

Some of your guests might have some dietary restrictions (or have more self discipline than many of us). For those friends, include a gourmet low carb, sugar free cheesecake alternative. While that might not be considered a health food, it allows splurging within acceptable limits. An orange wedge makes a healthy addition to this plate.

Tastefully mark these choices with cards on the buffet so everyone can choose a slice of heaven that fits their own tolerance for sin.

Of course, you’ll want to include a robust decaf option. In addition choose to present just one interestingly flavored coffee. Add to that a bold roast from Jamaica or Columbia.

This is the type of informal entertaining that does not sacrifice the good taste (and lively conversation) that is always the special ingredient for any social event in any era. Besides, there is no morning hangover the next day. Doesn’t this sound more contemporary to you?

 

Orvieto Silver 4ct Mint Green Pear-Shaped Quartz Sterling Silver Ring


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