Month: March 2017

Throwing a surprise party involves some tricky planning. But if it’s done right, it can be a night to remember for everyone involved. Thankfully, throwing a surprise party at a restaurant can take some of the pressure away. With the venue, food and drinks and the date set, all you need to do is invite the guests. 

Below, we offer our top tips and tricks on how to plan a surprise birthday party at a restaurant. 

Our top tips for planning a surprise party at a restaurant 

From choosing a venue everybody is going to like to creating a list of who the birthday boy or girl would like to spend the day with, there are so many aspects of a surprise party that need to be taken into consideration. Fear not, we’re here to help!

Choose the right venue

We all remember the parties with the best venues. That’s why it’s hugely important to choose somewhere that both the birthday guest will like, as well as the other guests. 

Restaurants are always a safe and exciting option. The venue handles logistics, allowing the organiser to focus on the celebration. In fact, restaurants also provide a brilliant atmosphere, relieving hosts of the need for extensive decorations. And with diverse menu options, guests can indulge in their preferences. 

Here at COSMO, our vibrant and welcoming ambience, coupled with attentive staff, ensures a memorable celebration. The expansive buffet offers an array of global cuisines, from Asian to European, satisfying every palate. Imagine savouring sushi, indulging in sizzling stir-fries, and relishing decadent desserts—all in one place. The birthday celebrant often receives special treatment, adding a personalised touch to the occasion. 

Create the guest list

Crafting the ideal guest list for a surprise party at a restaurant requires thoughtful consideration. Of course, as it is a surprise party, always opt for individuals close to the guest of honour who can maintain secrecy. 

Next, consider the restaurant’s capacity and ambience, making sure it suits the celebrant’s preferences and includes friends and family who will enhance the joyous atmosphere. 

Of course, confirm any dietary preferences to guarantee everyone enjoys the dining experience. 

A well-curated guest list will ensure that there is a harmonious blend of personalities, making the surprise celebration a memorable occasion for everyone involved.

Coordinate with restaurant staff

Both you and the restaurant are responsible for the smooth running of your surprise party. That’s why you should coordinate every detail with the restaurant as soon as you start the preparation. This could include aligning logistics such as timing and discreet entry. 

You must also collaborate on special arrangements, like a personalised menu or festive decor. Make sure to confirm dietary preferences and ensure staff is aware of the celebrant’s favourite dishes. 

Coordinating with the restaurant team will guarantee seamless execution, creating a memorable experience for the guest of honour and attendees. 

Capture the ‘surprise’ moments

It goes without saying that you’re going to want to capture the priceless expression on the birthday boy or girl’s face when they enter the room and everyone shouts ‘Surprise!’. Appoint someone as the party’s videographer, such as a member of staff, and make sure that they focus the camera on the guest of honour’s reaction during the initial two or three minutes upon entering the venue. 

Consider dietary restrictions and preferences

And, of course, as you have chosen to throw your surprise party at a restaurant, you must consider all your guests’ dietary restrictions and preferences. Gather information from your guests in advance to ensure the menu caters to various needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or other dietary requirements. You should also communicate these details effectively with the restaurant staff so that each guest can indulge in the celebration without any culinary concerns. 

At COSMO’s all-you-can-eat restaurant, we offer a wide range of dishes, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary options. Customers are encouraged to inform the staff about their specific dietary needs, and chefs may be available to discuss ingredient details or customise certain dishes upon request. In fact, we take dietary restrictions and preferences seriously, aiming to provide a diverse and inclusive dining experience.

Create an unforgettable moment at COSMO! Book your surprise birthday party now for a celebration filled with global flavours, vibrant ambience, and joyous surprises. Let us handle the details while you focus on making memories. Contact us today to plan the perfect surprise party and treat your loved one to a delightful experience at COSMO in Belfast, Bristol, Liverpool and more.

Dinner parties are a wonderful way to bring your family and friends together to socialise. With a table filled with delicious food and drinks flowing all night, what better way to spend the night? But who says you have to always host a dinner party in your own home? For those who may not have the space, organising last minute or simply don’t want to face the cooking or washing up, a restaurant is a great alternative. In fact, the less time you spend slaving over a hot stove, worrying whether your guests will enjoy the meal, the more time you could spend enjoying their company. 

How do you host a dinner party at a restaurant?

While everything may appear to be taken care of and all you must do is show up on the day, there are a few things you need to prepare before hosting your dinner party at a restaurant. Take a look below at our top tips for hosting a night to remember. 

Seating arrangements and table decor

The importance of seating arrangements and table decor when you’re hosting a dinner party at a restaurant cannot be overstated. If you are a group of 8-10, one table should be enough. For any larger, you may need to book multiple tables so that everyone can engage with one another. And of course, you must thoughtfully plan where everyone will sit, as they should feel comfortable and connected. 

Likewise, you must also plan the table decor that reflects the event’s theme, setting the tone for the evening. It’s a visual feast that complements the culinary experience, making the celebration memorable.

From elegant centrepieces to personalised place cards, the details matter.

Investing time in these aspects creates an inviting space, elevating the dining experience and leaving a lasting impression on guests.

Communication with guests and the restaurant

Once you have chosen a restaurant you want to host your dinner party at, you should then make sure that your guests are informed about the event details, including date, time, and any special arrangements. As well as this, you should collaborate with the restaurant on guest count, menu preferences, and potential dietary restrictions guarantees a seamless dining experience. Regular updates and coordination guarantee that the restaurant is well-prepared to cater to specific needs, making the evening enjoyable for all. 

Capturing the special moments

Birthdays, engagements, reunions with old friends, whatever the occasion is that you’re celebrating, you may want to capture these special moments. Designate a photographer or encourage guests to take photos of the night. From candid conversations to toasts and laughter, these moments will leave a lasting memory of the evening. You could even share the photos on social media or create a dedicated event hashtag that allows everyone to relive the experience. At COSMO, it would be our pleasure to help you take some fun group pictures!

Budgeting and cost considerations

Budgeting is a crucial aspect when hosting a dinner party at a restaurant. Clearly define a budget that covers the venue costs, food, beverages, and potential extras like decor or entertainment. Then, consider the number of guests and choose a restaurant that aligns with your financial plan.

If your budget is a little tighter, explore package options, set menus, or special deals to optimise value. Keep in mind that additional costs may arise, such as gratuities or corkage fees. 

At COSMO, you needn’t worry about encountering any additional costs, as for just one set price, you can eat as much as you like from our menu. Indulge in a diverse range of global cuisines, from sushi to desserts, all included in a single, affordable fee. All you need to do is bring the guests!

Managing dietary preferences and restrictions

Managing dietary preferences and restrictions is paramount when hosting a dinner party at a restaurant. Make sure to collect detailed information from guests about their dietary needs, including allergies or lifestyle choices. Communicate this information with the restaurant staff, making sure that they can accommodate various requirements. You should also select a restaurant with a versatile menu that caters to different preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. 

At COSMO’s all-you-can-eat restaurant, we boast a wide array of dishes, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Customers are encouraged to inform the staff about their specific dietary needs, and chefs may be available to discuss ingredient details or customise certain dishes upon request. In fact, we prioritise dietary preferences, offering a diverse and inclusive dining experience.

Elevate your dining experience by hosting your next dinner party here at COSMO. Whether you choose to dine at our Dublin, Glasgow or Manchester restaurants, indulge in a world of flavours, from diverse cuisines to delectable desserts, all in one place. Simply contact us today to reserve your spot, and let us turn your special occasion into a memorable feast!