There’s a certain ease that comes with entertaining in the summer. The sun-drenched days and warm, balmy nights make it the perfect season to host long lunches and alfresco dinner parties, while our calendars rack up end-of-year festivities faster than we can say ‘Merry Christmas’.
This summer, skip the fussy details (goodbye, assigned seating) and focus on the things that truly matter: delicious food, great drinks and even better company. Below, we share a curated dinner party menu for summer get-togethers—and round up our favourite entertaining accessories to help you set the table in style.
The Perfect Summer Menu
Whether you’re hosting a laidback lunch in your garden or an elevated soirée, every summer menu should be stacked with simple, shareable bites. Keep the emphasis on dishes that can be enjoyed in the heat, featuring seasonal produce and flavours that are bright, zesty, and just a little indulgent.
Bring out a charcuterie board that’s easy for guests to snack on throughout the party, then serve plates of fresh seafood like oysters Rockefeller, cold prawns and scampi, paired with a glass of sparkling wine to set the mood.
A blend of chardonnay and pinot noir, the Ovata Non Vintage Sparkling Wine has a fine, creamy texture and bright aroma that works beautifully with seafood and a variety of cheeses. Mild, creamy varieties like brie and camembert pair beautifully, as their soft texture and subtle flavor enhance the delicate bubbles and fruity notes of the sparkling wine.
The best way to wrap up any party is with something sweet. Try your hand at a panna cotta, and keep pouring the sparkling wine as the constant bubbles and acidity cut through the creaminess of this Italian dessert—making for a refreshing pairing.
Must-Have Entertaining Accessories
A well-curated and functional tablescape can elevate any gathering in an instant. It doesn’t need to be perfect with matching cutlery sets or napkin rings, but a couple of thoughtful details can make all the difference.
Decorate the table with a big bowl of seasonal fruit (lemons, limes and grapes look particularly aesthetic), handpicked flowers, colourful tableware and an ice bucket to store wine bottles in style. Get inspired by our round-up of entertaining accessories to shop this summer.
Maison Balzac The Olive Oil Bottle
$139
La Casa Balthazar Oyster Dish
$165
Archivist Gallery Luxury Matches
$23
Jo Loves Fig Trees Diffuser 200ml
$189
Enjoy drinking responsibly, 18+.
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