Is your dinner party an old-fashioned cliche?

See more Daily Mail on Google - save us as a Preferred SourceBy GRACE BANNISTER FOR YOU MAGAZINE Updated: 10:06 BST, 20 June 2026

Hate the stress and pomp of a formal dinner party? You’re not alone. Nearly two thirds of younger Brits think formal entertaining is ‘outdated and stressful’.In fact, there are some pretty big generational differences when it comes to hosting and dining.Calling it a ‘dinner party’? The phrase alone is sure to cue some eyerolls. So, with the younger generation favouring more casual dining, here are 10 outdated dinner party mistakes to avoid if you want to impress Gen Z guests, according to new poll by Deli Kitchen.Assigned seatingLong gone are the days of pretending to enjoy small talk with a perfect stranger to your left could be considered anyone’s idea of fun. Seating plans are on the out with 25% of Gen Z preferring to choose their seat at the table. Why not avoid the awkwardness and let guests seat themselves? Assigned seating is out. Gen Z guests want to choose their seat. Set menuThe classic three-course dinner has been overtaken by Gen Z’s preference for small sharing plates. Prawn cocktails for starters and trifles for desert are a no-go for younger generations. And while you’re at it, why not avoid plating up for guests entirely; 19% of modern Brits would much prefer to share food and serve themselves.Only serving British foodIt seems that Gen Z are no longer impressed with a soup or toad in the hole, with four in ten hosts are now looking beyond classic British cuisine for a more internationally inspired menu. Move aside beef wellington, instead try your hand at curry or ramen.Tablecloths and candlesticksGen Z aren’t opposed to tablescaping, in fact 14% agree that it's a dinner party essential. Afterall, a quarter say, ‘the camera eats first’. But tablecloths and candlesticks? So last century. A more personal touch through themes and hand-written notes are the way to go. Swap outdated candlesticks with something a little more thoughtful.Dressing-upWith 12% of modern Brits preferring to eat in the kitchen than in the dining room, avoid overdressing – it's now a dinner party cliche. Ditch the heels down and opt for more casual footwear and outfit choice.Carving meat at the tableGen Z has more veggies than any other generation so it’s hardly surprising that 15% think that carving meat at the table is ‘uncool’. Put the carving knife down and consider serving mezze and tapas inspired dishes instead. Carving meat at the table is a dinner table faux pas according to Gen Z.Serving separate red and white wine with each courseNot so fussed with wine pairings, Gen Z would prefer an alcohol-free pairing to complement their dinner. Stop stressing about spending big on booze, instead take a look at some 0% options, you’re younger dinner guests will thank you.Background jazz or classical musicOne in five younger Brits think playing jazz or classical music at a dinner party is outdated. Turn off Mozart, Gen Z prefers to set the vibe with a thoughtfully curated and themed playlist.ApronsThis one likely goes without saying. We know you want to protect your protect your dinner party fit, but nothing screams 1950s more than an apron. The 1950s called, they want their apron back.Calling it a dinner partyDon’t be surprised if you get more RSVPs calling it ‘supper’ than a ‘dinner party’, 19% of Gen Z think the phrase ‘dinner party’ is outdated. Instead, they’d much prefer to attend ‘supper’, definitely suggests a more chic affair.