Action Stations

An Action Station is a table or area complete with cooking items set up at a catered event in order for guests to watch and have their food cooked with the exact ingredients and in the manner that they prefer. It is usually equipped with an open flame, pans, toppings or whatever is needed for the particular food that is being prepared. At a catered event, an action station is set up as a part of the buffet, although depending on what is served, it can stand alone. At an action station, guests can have their food prepared in the manner that they prefer by deciding:

• What ingredients or toppings they prefer to be used in their food
• Their preferred portion

The food is cooked on the spot in an effort to allow guests to pick and choose what items they want included in their individual dish. Action Stations can also be an unexpected source of entertainment, especially when the food is cooked over a stove. Watching food being professionally cooked before one’s eyes adds extra excitement about the presentation and receiving of food. Action Stations are usually a part of a buffet line and allow for interaction between the culinary staff and guests. The culinary staff is present to answer questions about the food and also grant special dietary needs and requests.  Action Stations can be set up for:

• Sushi and Tempura
• Pasta
• Chicken, Beef and other meats
• Pizza
• Desserts and Ice Cream
• Coffee and Tea
• Tacos and other Mexican cuisine
• Crepes
• Omelets
• Salads

Carving Stations are a type of Action Station where fresh meat is sliced by an attendant and served fresh to guests. These stations usually contain a heating lamp and a see- through partition between the guests and the food to keep the contents sanitary. Again, guests can choose which cuts of meat they prefer and witness the freshness of the food. Carving Stations are great for meats such as:

• Prime Rib
• Roast Pig
• Baked Chicken
• Roasted Turkey
• Lamb