| Reception | An event in which appetizers and drinks are served- usually preludes another bigger event or gala. Also an area for receiving guests, such as the reception area of a hotel. |
| Reception Table | A table used for drinking, socializing or drinking at a reception. Also the table or station where arriving guests are checked in on the guest lists by the event staff and directed to their table or the area of the event. |
| Riser | Plastic or faux glass supports used underneath the legs of a buffet plate or dish to raise it to eye level. |
| Roasted | Cooked for consumption by dry heat, this usually means an oven. |
| RSVP | A written request on an invitation asking the invitee to notify the person listed by a certain date either by mail, phone or email to whether or not you will be able to attend the event. When food will be served, invitees are usually asked to provided the number of people in your party. |
| Runner | A piece of decorative cloth that is usually placed down the middle of a formal dining table. The flower arrangement, centerpiece or food dishes might be placed on top of the runner. It is also used to protect the table from hot dishes, scratches or water stains. |
| Russian Service | When food dishes are served individually to each guest as an individual portion. |