This Christmas, the height of sophistication might not be air-fried party food or artisanal crisps, but a triumphant return to the classic 1970s buffet. A wave of nostalgia is sweeping the nation, with festive hosts ditching modern canapés in favour of the comforting, if somewhat kitsch, spreads of yesteryear.
The Retro Revival: What's on the Menu?
Discussions on forums like Mumsnet have revealed a wealth of people planning a full-blown '70s-themed Christmas feast. The desired spread is a far cry from today's offerings, featuring treats such as the legendary Black Forest gateau, often washed down with a Watneys Party Seven or a dainty Babycham in its branded glass.
For those wanting to truly impress their guests, the ultimate centrepiece is the party hedgehog – a cheese ball studded with almond spines and cocktail stick offerings. Other savoury stars include devilled eggs, celery sticks filled with Primula cheese spread, and the ever-elegant gala pie.
Lost Treats and Shrunken Selections
While some classics like trifle and flan can still be purchased or made, many of the most nostalgic items have vanished from shelves or changed beyond recognition. Millennials who grew up in the '90s fondly recall selection boxes that came in a stocking-shaped plastic net and contained sweets like Opal Fruits and Marathon bars (now known as Starburst and Snickers).
The allure of the Terry's Pyramint, a dark chocolate pyramid with a mint fondant centre launched in 1988, remains a potent memory, though it was discontinued due to falling demand. Similarly, the Sara Lee Black Forest gateau, a freezer staple that signalled a special occasion, is no longer available since the company closed its UK operations in 2006.
Even surviving brands have changed. Tins of Quality Street and Roses from the 1980s were heavier and contained a wider array of flavours, including Gooseberry Cream and a Brazil nut in the 'Purple One'. Over the years, the size of these selection boxes has shrunk significantly, with some classic bars replaced.
A Toast to the Past: Retro Drinks and Desserts
No 70s buffet would be complete without the right drinks. The list is a who's who of retro tipples: Harvey's Bristol Cream sherry, a Snowball cocktail, and the iconic Watneys Party Seven – a seven-pint can of beer that saw a tentative relaunch in 2016.
For dessert, beyond the Black Forest gateau, Brits are reminiscing about the Cappuccino Viennetta, a coffee-flavoured ice cream loaf that was a 1990s staple before being discontinued. Other forgotten favourites include the meringue-based Romantica cake (now revived in Tesco), Arctic Roll, and the powdered pudding Angel Delight.
This Christmas, it seems the way to your guests' hearts is not through the latest food trend, but through a well-stocked buffet table featuring the comforting, if decidedly retro, flavours of the past.
