As live events begin to make a comeback, a big question mark has been on catering—how to keep it low-touch and prevent crowding at stations. One way to avoid lines at buffet tables? Passed bites, of course. Steal some ideas from these catering companies across the U.S. and Canada.

New York-based Abigail Kirsch put a colorful spin on deviled quail eggs for springtime hors d'oeuvres.
Photo: @abigailkirschculinary

Tuna poké bowl station, anyone? Forks & Fingers Catering in Connecticut created a petite version of the fresh dish for passed apps during a cocktail reception.
Photo: @forksandfingerscatering

Elegant Affairs brought color—and clothespins—to its brunch bar. With many event organizers concerned about high-touch catering concepts amid COVID-19, these clothespins allowed guests to snag a bite without touching others on the plate!
Photo: Ben Potter/@elegantaffairs1

During an event held at Lincoln Center in New York last week, CxRA (aka Catering by Restaurant Associates) brought guests chips and dip in a "COVID-friendly" manner with individually packaged meal boxes.
Photo: @cxra_nyc

These grilled cheese and tomato soup samples from Virginia-based Purple Onion Catering double as appetizers or late-night passed snacks for events.
Photo: Megan Kelsey Photography/@purpleonioncateringco

Yes, you can have dessert before dinner! For the guests with a sweet tooth, Ridgewells in Washington, D.C., offers these colorful brownie pops.
Photo: @ridgewellsdc