How Much Food to Order for a Family Gathering or Party

The host's biggest worry

Every host has the same fear: running out of food while guests are still arriving. The second fear is a fridge full of leftovers for a week. With a few simple rules, you can land comfortably in the middle.

Start with your guest list

Count adults and children separately. Children usually eat smaller portions, though teenagers can easily match or beat the adults. Then think about the type of event:

• A sit-down lunch or dinner: people eat a full meal, so plan generous mains
• An afternoon get-together: lighter bites and snacks, with fewer heavy dishes
• A long celebration: guests eat in waves, so plan for second helpings

A simple way to balance the menu

Rather than ordering lots of one dish, build a spread. A good family table usually has:

1. A filling base: rice, pilau or ugali to anchor the meal
2. One or two mains: a stew, grilled meat or chicken
3. A vegetable dish: greens such as sukuma wiki or cabbage
4. Something fresh: kachumbari or a simple salad
5. Drinks: water plus a couple of juice or soda options

Variety means guests take a little of several things instead of a big helping of one, which naturally spreads the food further.

Use platters for larger groups

For bigger gatherings, family platters are often easier than ordering individual plates. Check the portion size listed on each platter, then match it to your headcount. If you are unsure, round up slightly rather than down, especially if you have big eaters in the family.

Plan for guests with different needs

Ask ahead about anyone who:

• Does not eat meat or avoids certain meats
• Has a food allergy
• Is very young and needs simpler, milder food

Keep their dishes clearly separated on the table. For serious allergies, speak to the kitchen before you order.

Order early in busy seasons

December holidays, Easter and long weekends are busy times for every kitchen in Nairobi. Place your order early, confirm your delivery area on our delivery page, and plan for the food to arrive before guests sit down.

Keep leftovers safe

Good planning still leaves a little extra. Handle it carefully:

• Do not leave cooked food sitting out for hours, especially on hot days
• Cool leftovers, cover them and put them in the fridge as soon as you can
• Reheat until piping hot all the way through
• Reheat only once, and when in doubt, throw it out

Quick host checklist

• Final headcount confirmed
• Dietary needs noted
• Mains, base, vegetables and something fresh covered
• Drinks and ice sorted
• Serving spoons, plates and serviettes ready
• Space in the fridge for leftovers

Let us do the cooking

You have enough to manage on the day. Browse our family platters, grills, rice and local classics, then order from our menu and spend more time with the people you invited.