How to set up a buffet on your dining room table: 3. Order is Everything  The speed at which people move through a buffet is directly proportional to how well the flow works, so be sure to think through how people will serve their plates! Here’s how we like to order things: Plates &gt; Entrée &gt; Salad &gt; Sides &gt; Bread &gt; Napkins &gt; Flatware