Looking for synonyms for hors d’oeuvres? We’ve got you covered!
Here’s a list of other ways to say hors d’oeuvres.
- Appetizers
- Starters
- Canapés
- Finger foods
- Snacks
- Small plates
- Antipasti
- Amuse-bouches
- Tapas
- Nibbles
- Aperitifs
- Bites
- Miniatures
- Munchies
- Cocktail snacks
Want to learn how to say hors d’oeuvres professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.
1. Appetizers
Appropriate for any dining context, from casual to formal, referring to the first course of a meal.
- Example: “Our menu features a variety of appetizers, including bruschetta and shrimp cocktail.”
2. Starters
Commonly used in both casual and fine dining to refer to the initial course of a meal.
- Example: “For starters, we recommend our house salad or the soup of the day.”
3. Canapés
Used in formal events or parties, referring to small, decorative bites, usually served during cocktail hours.
- Example: “Our event catering includes an assortment of canapés, perfect for mingling guests.”
4. Finger Foods
Refers to small, easy-to-eat items suitable for informal gatherings or as part of a buffet.
- Example: “Our finger foods selection includes mini quiches and spring rolls, ideal for your party.”
5. Snacks
Informal, can refer to any small portion of food, often used in casual settings or between meals.
- Example: “We have prepared a variety of snacks for the meeting, including nuts and fruit slices.”
6. Small Plates
Used in dining establishments that focus on shared eating experiences, offering a variety of dishes.
- Example: “Our restaurant specializes in small plates, encouraging guests to sample multiple dishes.”
7. Antipasti
Specific to Italian cuisine, referring to a variety of cold dishes served before the main meal.
- Example: “Our antipasti platter includes cured meats, cheeses, and olives.”
8. Amuse-Bouches
A French term used in fine dining to describe complimentary, bite-sized hors d’oeuvres served before the first course.
- Example: “Tonight’s amuse-bouche is a seared scallop with a saffron aioli.”
9. Tapas
Originating from Spanish cuisine, referring to small savory dishes, typically served with drinks.
- Example: “Join us for an evening of tapas, featuring patatas bravas and gambas al ajillo.”
10. Nibbles
A casual term for small items of food, often served at parties or before a meal.
- Example: “We’ve prepared a selection of nibbles to enjoy with your drinks.”
11. Aperitifs
Typically refers to drinks served before a meal to stimulate the appetite, but can also include small food items.
- Example: “Our aperitifs selection includes light cocktails and savory bites to start your dining experience.”
12. Bites
A general term for small portions of food, suitable for informal or formal settings.
- Example: “Our cocktail menu is accompanied by a selection of gourmet bites.”
13. Miniatures
Refers to small versions of larger dishes, often used for catering events or in tasting menus.
- Example: “Our miniatures menu features bite-sized versions of our most popular entrees.”
14. Munchies
An informal term, often used to describe snacks or light food items, suitable for casual gatherings.
- Example: “We’ve stocked the lounge with munchies for your enjoyment during the game.”
15. Cocktail Snacks
Specifically refers to small food items served with drinks, particularly at bars or cocktail parties.
- Example: “Our bar offers a variety of cocktail snacks, including spiced nuts and olives.”
