Tapas

• Tapas are Spanish specialties that are fast becoming popular all over the world, and it's easy to see why: They're ideal snack foods: delicious, small, portable and usually interesting. If you still haven't decided on a theme for your party, tapas might be the way to go. From the fairly familiar mini-empanada (which can be filled with savory or sweet fillings) to Spain's ubiquitous bacalao, it's up to you (and what you think your guests will like) as to how authentic you want to be. If you're feeling especially ambitious, you might even consider venturing into the celebrated realm of Basque cookery and its pintxos.
  
  

Miniature Favorites

• There's a reason some people collect and create dolls and dollhouses: Miniature versions of familiar things are a lot of fun, and the same rule applies to food. There are two schools of thought on this matter, the absolutely-true-to-memory-but-tiny version, and the familiar-but-with-a-twist version.
  
  Some examples of the true-to-memory version would be the ever-popular finger sandwiches, mini-fruit-tartlets and pigs in a blanket. As the saying goes, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it," right?
  
  If you think your guests would be more likely to appreciate a surprise, you might want to try twists on familiar foods. Some examples might include homemade bacon and egg ice cream served over mini-waffles, curried mango pocket pies and miniature buns with serrano ham and Gruyere cheese baked inside.
  
  

Attaining Balance

• No matter what menu you ultimately choose, it's important to keep a balance between savory foods and sweet foods. With finger buffet foods, it's also important to choose foods that pack a lot of punch flavorwise despite their diminutive size. Think of it this way: Each type of food only has a single bite or two in order to make an impression. Everyone attending your party is going to have their favorites, but it's generally in your best interest to make it difficult for them to choose a favorite because everything is wonderful than because they can't remember anything standing out.