A Memerable Gourmet Evening: Cheesecake and Coffee

It is certainly not yet time to declare the elegant cocktail party of the mid-twentieth century is a thing of the past, but there is a clear trend in entertaining toward more casual events. Remember Clark Gable or Fred Astaire, dressed in their tuxedos; or consider Ginger Rogers in her flowing gown. They gathered in a magnificent manor house, sipped martinis and danced throughout the night. Can you really imagine your friends, neighbors or family members relaxing in that kind of atmosphere and actually being thrilled about it?

Gourmet coffee accompanied by a slice of delicate 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 and cumber bund. Furthermore, the cost for such a little party can stay well under the cost of several bottles of imported gin, a little vermouth and fresh caviar served with gold spoons.

The bakery on the next street has perfectly acceptable cheesecake, perhaps purchased from a local distributor, but you might want to consider something a bit more interesting for 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.

Remember that people's tastes vary, so provide a choice of cheesecake flavors. Offer a gourmet turtle cheesecake for the chocolate lovers on your guest list. Add a few walnuts and some dark chocolate shavings to the plate.

A nice alternative would be a strawberry or blueberry cheesecake for your friends who enjoy a fruitier taste. You might want to venture to one of the more unusual berries such as Marionberry, unique to the Pacific Northwest. If you opt for the tarter flavors, you can decorate with a mint sprig.

Don't overlook those who are interested in splurging without sacrificing their dietary restrictions too much. Magnificent sugar free, low carb cheesecakes are available with tastes and textures that can rival their traditional counterparts. Add a couple berries or a thin slice of fresh pear.

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.

A gourmet evening such as this is the twenty-first century equivalent of the cocktail party. Cheesecake and coffee do not require a tux, and the absence of alcohol allows for safe travel for all of your departing guests.