The meal served for a rowdy 21st birthday is going to be a very simple one. It needs to involve little more than dialing up a local restaurant. Sometimes a small gathering or just dinner for two is more to the taste of the guest of honor, though.

When this is the case an intimate candle lit dinner is fine. The menu should reflect the favorite foods of the guest of honor. If this is hamburgers or pizza then these are going to need a considerable upgrade. Try this. Ask the butcher for the best cut of steak within budget. Have it ground like hamburger. Mix that in equal parts with the best fresh hamburger. Have the baker make an order of fresh hamburger buns. Then prepare those hamburgers better than any other burger ever eaten! Use only the best fresh toppings and serve all the toppings in a build-to-order bar. If pizza is the favorite meal try the same tactic. Use the best cheeses, meats and sauce available. Serve with a salad that would be a meal in itself.

Banquet Halls

When the 21st birthday party is of the more casual kind, use only disposable and paper party supplies. Guests at the 21st birthday party are still young at heart and might enjoy the kind of menu they have loved throughout their youth. Bowls of chips and packaged dip are still expected. They might even appreciate candy dishes overflowing with childhood favorites. With this crowd, however, introduce the sandwich platter of deli meats. A good selection of meats and cheeses will quickly disappear as will the contents of the pickle tray. A similar fate may await those cut up vegetable--usually broccoli, carrots, celery and cauliflower.

Dress up the house or rented hall with colorful birthday banners! And don't forget the birthday cake.