Literally, finger food means "eating with your hands." And anyone who thinks this style of menu isn't a good option is mistaken – after all, it's one of the main gastronomic trends for events in 2025. 

Finger food is gaining more and more space in buffets and attracting the attention of customers. This is because full meals or very rigid menus sometimes no longer fit into the formats of current events. 

However, it's worth noting that plated meals or American-style buffets, which are more traditional choices, aren't necessarily bad options. The most interesting thing is that, with the emergence of new menu "styles," parties are becoming more diverse.

If you're planning an event, you've probably already heard about this. And to keep you up to speed on this gastronomic trend, we've prepared a text full of information and tips on how to put together a finger food menu.

Weddings, 15th birthday parties, children's birthdays, or even corporate meetings – all events can offer a finger food menu. It just takes planning; see below.

First, what is finger food?

First, let's understand what finger foods are. We can say that they are small portions of various types of meals. They are generally meant to be eaten with your hands, without the use of cutlery, and with just a few bites. 

There is no official origin for the term. However, one interesting fact about it is that finger food was popularized by the English actress Joan Collins. She liked small appetizers so she wouldn't ruin her lipstick during the filming of Dynasty, in which she starred in the 1980s. 

Today, these small dishes are taking on new forms, with preparations that incorporate techniques from haute cuisine. They can be served hot or cold, in spoons, verrines (small glasses), or in ceramic dishes known as "cumbuquinhas" (small bowls). 

In this sense, because it is an easy-to-consume option, it is usually served in a roving style. That is, the service team offers these delicacies in a dynamic way during the event, with people standing, at bistros, or on the dance floor. 

The difference between canapés and finger food.

In short, a canapé is a type of finger food. Many people confuse the two terms, thinking they are the same thing, or they are completely different.

But to illustrate and make this difference clear, let's understand exactly what a canapé is:

Very popular at Brazilian parties, this treat was... Created in Russia in the mid-18th century, canapés are those served with a "base." For example, small toasts or breads served with a "filling" on top, such as meats, fish, pâtés, and more.

Regarding finger foods, there is a greater variety of formats. They can be served in small utensils and don't necessarily have the same "base" as canapés. For example, a small portion of ceviche served in a mini glass is a finger food.

Why choose this gastronomic trend for your event?

Practicality is one of the most attractive factors because it adds dynamism to the event, regardless of its size. Imagine a congress with three simultaneous auditoriums and many activities to participate in. If you provide a finger food menu or a packed lunch at this type of event, attendees can eat while participating in everything. Practicality!

Another point that appeals to people planning an event is the variety. One of the advantages of the finger food format is that it allows you to offer guests more food options. 

In this way, some problems are solved, such as catering to those who have dietary restrictions, or who are vegetarians and vegans, for example. 

And some say we eat first with our eyes, right? And that's another strong attribute of finger food cuisine. Nowadays, these small portions come in different colors, textures, and shapes that are enchanting in their presentation and make them even more attractive.

Finally, this type of menu also influences the event's decoration. As we mentioned earlier, portions are traditionally served by waiters on trays. But another way is to serve them in the form of food stations, which can be decorated with accessories such as flowers and vases, as in the We Do Experience.

Click here and see what's trending when it comes to gourmet desserts for events.  

Ways to serve finger foods 

It's possible to invest in various types of appetizers. The important thing is to offer a variety of flavors and quality products. The way the appetizers are served draws the attention of the event's guests, and to help you with ideas, we've brought together some options:

• When serving finger food on a skewer, choose a material with a small detail that will ensure elegance. Additionally, it's possible to serve the food on the skewer inside a verrine.
• Small bowls, boats, spoons and other ceramic items are always good options;
• Another suggestion is to use boards and trays that are out of the ordinary, colorful or made of wood, for example;
• Don't forget dessert. When serving sweets, small cups and bowls ensure both good aesthetics and practicality for consumption.

Finger foods are gaining space on the menu at Clementina Bar e Ristoranti.

Finger foods are trending not only at events, but also in restaurants. And the Clementina Bar and Restaurant, which, like the Center Convention, is part of the Center Shopping Complex, offers delicious options for these snacks.

Restaurant patrons can enjoy portions of mixed pastries, meat bonbons, potatoes with cheddar and bacon, mixed bruschetta, and cod fritters in citrus sauce, for example.

Once again, the finger foods prepared by Clementina Bar e Ristoranti were a hit at the Degusta Festival.

In addition to enjoying the shows at the Degusta 2024 Festival, the audience present at the event could enjoy finger foods served by Clementina Bar e Ristoranti, which, like the Center Convention, is part of the Center Shopping Complex. 

This year, festival visitors had the opportunity to savor Duo Purê, grilled gnocchi, and mini dulce de leche tarts. 

These options, served in smaller portions, allow the audience to consume them with cutlery, standing or sitting at the small tables, taking the opportunity to watch the show and socialize at the same time. 

Degusta is a festival at Center Shopping focused on street food and took place from July 4th to 7th, and from July 11th to 14th, 2024, on the E4 floor.

Check out Chef Rafael Oliveira's tips on how to put together a finger food menu.

“"My experience has taught me that the success of a finger food event lies in the details, from menu selection to logistics, including presentation, ambiance, and, of course, the quality of service," explains chef Rafael Oliveira.

Initial Planning

The first step is to define the event's objective, whether it's a corporate cocktail party, a birthday celebration, or a wedding, as the type of event will influence the finger food choices. Establishing a realistic budget is crucial for determining the type of food, the quantity, and the presentation style. It's also essential to understand the guests' profile, considering their food preferences and dietary restrictions, such as vegetarians, vegans, or those intolerant to gluten/lactose. 

Menu Selection

It is essential to offer a variety of finger foods that include hot, cold, sweet, and savory options. Ease of consumption is another important factor, opting for foods that can be eaten standing up, without the need for utensils. The presentation of the dishes should be elegant and creative, using beautiful serving platters and innovative ways of serving. 

Logistics

The layout of the space should allow for easy circulation, with well-distributed support tables and service islands. The service team should be sufficient and well-trained to assist guests and maintain a dynamic flow of the event. Furthermore, it's important to establish a schedule for food service, ensuring that options are served at different times to maintain variety. 

Customer Type

Corporate events tend to value the practicality and sophistication of finger food, often featuring miniature versions of sophisticated dishes. For a younger audience, relaxed options like sliders, mini tacos, and reinterpreted street food are welcome. In luxury events, exclusivity and sophistication are essential, with finger foods that include gourmet ingredients such as truffles, caviar, and foie gras. 

Tendencies

Sustainability has been a growing demand, with finger foods made from organic, local, and sustainable ingredients, as well as biodegradable packaging. The fusion of flavors and the inclusion of functional foods, which offer health benefits, are also on the rise. Interactive stations where guests assemble their own plates create a personalized experience and are highly appreciated. 

Execution

It's essential to conduct tests and tastings beforehand to ensure that the chosen recipes are practical to prepare and serve in large quantities. On the day of the event, every detail must be perfect, from the temperature of the food to the constant replenishment of the trays and the interaction between the staff and the guests. My experience has taught me that the success of a finger food event lies in the details – from menu selection to logistics, including presentation, ambiance, and, of course, the quality of service.

Host your event with us.

Offer an exclusive finger food menu at your event with us and make your audience's gastronomic experience unforgettable. You can check out all the infrastructure and services available at the Convention Center and throughout the Center Shopping Complex by speaking with our team. Call us at (34) 3239-8300 or email comercial@centerconvention.com.br. You can also reserve a date by clicking [here]. HERE.