Why Harvest Tables Are the Hottest Catering Trend in Cape Town
In the world of modern event catering, it’s no longer just about how the food tastes — it’s about how it feels. Guests are craving connection, presentation, and experience, and the traditional buffet doesn’t always deliver. That’s where harvest tables step in — they’re fast becoming the go-to option for stylish, laid-back and flavour-forward events.
Whether you’re planning a wedding in the Winelands, a corporate celebration in the CBD, or a garden party in Kuils River, harvest tables offer an unforgettable food experience that suits every setting.
In this post, we’ll explore why harvest tables have become such a hit in Cape Town, what makes them ideal for local events, and how to get the most out of this catering style.
Why Harvest Tables Work So Well for Local Events
Cape Town is a city known for its views, venues, and vibrant culture. It’s no surprise that event hosts — from brides to brand managers — are looking for catering solutions that reflect this spirit.
Harvest tables are more than just food on a table. They’re curated experiences that blend bold flavours, visual impact, and flexibility — all of which speak directly to what today’s audiences value.
Why They’re Gaining Popularity:
- Perfect for indoor & outdoor venues: Whether it’s a breezy beach ceremony or a formal hall in the Northern Suburbs, harvest tables adapt beautifully.
- Suited to informal mingling or formal dining: Guests love the freedom of grazing, while organisers appreciate how it fills space and time between formalities.
- No two events look the same: Each spread can be customised to match your theme, menu, and guest preferences.
- Blends style with substance: In a city that values both presentation and taste, harvest tables hit the sweet spot.
Common Local Event Types That Benefit:
- Weddings in Stellenbosch or Constantia
- Private chef-style dinners in Kuils River
- Year-end corporate parties across Cape Town
- Engagement parties, anniversaries & kitchen teas
Key Elements That Make Harvest Tables a Standout Catering Option
1. Versatility Across Menu Styles
Unlike buffets or plated dinners, harvest tables aren’t confined to a single style of service. In fact, they thrive on variety.
Popular inclusions:
- Artisan breads with house-made pâtés
- South African charcuterie & Winelands cheeses
- Warm dishes like lamb curry or chicken kebabs
- Signature canapés or sushi-style items
- Seasonal fruits, nuts, preserves, and sweet bites
Whether your guests prefer comfort food or gourmet fusion, a harvest table allows you to offer both — attractively presented and self-serve.
2. Flexible for Indoor and Outdoor Venues
Harvest tables work just as well in an elegant ballroom as they do on a vineyard lawn. Their modular setup makes them ideal for:
- Venues without kitchen access
- Tented or pop-up spaces in the Winelands
- Garden parties with limited staff access
- Rooftop or urban venues with aesthetic constraints
With Cape Town’s wide range of venues — from beach to bush — flexibility is a non-negotiable.
3. Visual Impact Without Breaking the Budget
Let’s face it: food is now part of your décor. Harvest tables elevate the visual appeal of your event with:
- Elevated wooden boards and platters
- Pops of fresh colour from produce
- Statement breads, cheeses, and florals
- Matching linens, foliage, and props
And since the setup can double as part of your décor, many clients reduce their styling costs while still achieving a luxe look.
4. Easy Guest Experience
Modern event guests expect flexibility. They want to eat when they’re ready, mix and mingle, and come back for seconds without pressure.
Harvest tables are:
- Unobtrusive, available from guest arrival to final toast
- Ideal for mixed-age groups and dietary preferences
- Scalable based on headcount and floor plan
Common Questions About Harvest Table Catering
Q. What’s the difference between a buffet and a harvest table?
While both offer self-service, buffets focus more on full meal service, while harvest tables combine elements of grazing, finger food, and structured mains — all with styled presentation.
Q. Are harvest tables more expensive than traditional catering?
Not necessarily. The cost depends on the ingredients, portion size, and presentation. Many clients find that harvest tables offer more value when combining food, display, and service in one.
Q. Can I customise a harvest table for dietary needs?
Yes. A professional caterer like Fork and Nice offers customisable menus, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and halal options.
How Fork and Nice Brings Harvest Tables to Life
At our Kuils River catering company, we’ve become known for our elevated harvest table catering across Cape Town and the Western Cape. Our team offers full-service catering — from handcrafted menus to décor, staffing, and bar service.
We don’t just set up food — we create immersive event experiences.
Our harvest tables are available in three curated packages depending on your guest count and event style. All packages include:
- Professional chef-led preparation
- Tables, serving boards, and styling
- Service ambassadors (waitstaff and chefs)
- Option to add DJs, photographers, or bar staff
Ready to Impress Your Guests?
Harvest tables aren’t just a trend — they’re a modern, versatile, and guest-friendly approach to catering that’s perfect for events across Cape Town. From garden weddings to high-end functions, they create a sense of abundance, style, and warmth.
Let Fork and Nice help you design a harvest table that suits your taste, theme, and budget.
3 Vleiland Crescent, Sonkring, Brackenfell, 7560
t. 060 697 0906
e. info@forkandnice.co.za