I love to throw a party, but I’m done with all the shopping, schlepping, cooking, and cleaning. These days, I keep it as simple as possible so I can join the fun! We have the solution if you have plans for a bash this summer, and the caterers and food trucks are booked (you have to think ahead around here).

We gathered a groaning table full of our go-to takeout when we don’t want to fuss. You probably won’t need this entire spread, but we hope you find a few tempting tidbits to help make your summer soirees a tad easier! Make a few phone calls, spend an hour picking up, mix up the Rose Sangria, and VOILA! Party time! 

Bramble Co., Chester
We adore Bramble’s loose, slightly wild arrangements dripping with fruit and flora. Owner Colleen Martell creates breathtaking bouquets and floral installations. Check out her offerings on her website:
bramblecollective.com/

Flatbread by Junebug 
Junebug’s Flatbreads, studded with vegetables, are wheaten works of art and almost too beautiful to eat. But you will. Order with her cottage cheese dip. Call or text to order: 917-710-5557

Olive Oyls, Essex 
I love stopping by Olive Oyls in Essex for lunch, especially when they have empanadas. You can order a quantity of beef or chicken ahead and warm them in the oven—a party pleaser. 
oliveoylscarryout.com

Flanders Fish Market, East Lyme
Flanders Fish Market offers a full catering menu (and a clambake wagon!), but if you’re after something simple and irresistible for your crew, order up a tray of lobster sliders.
flandersfish.com/

Mindy K.’s, Old Saybrook
For a light bite and/or for vegetarians, Mindy K.’s veggie summer rolls with peanut sauce are a standard at my house. Order a day or so ahead. Shrimp and chicken are available, too.
mindyks.com/

Deviled Eggs at Pasta Vita
Deviled Eggs are a high-protein crowd-pleaser, so order a platter from Pasta Vita. Three dozen minimum. 
pastavita.com/

Papis Tacos, Old Lyme
Papi’s takeout is perfect for a party because you can order the corn tortillas separately from the meat, so nothing gets soggy. Warm the chicken, veggies, carnitas, or steak, and fill the bite-size tacos. We’re big fans of their off-the-cob Elotes Street Corn, chips, salsa, and guac, too. Ask them to package the tortillas and meats separately when you order.  
orderpapistaqueria.com/

Gourmet Galley at Home, Niantic
We spied this heart-shaped truffle cheddar, which was too cute to pass up. GG to Go is also an excellent stop for frozen hors d’oeuvres to stock your freezer for an impromptu gathering. While you’re there, grab some of the Luxe Mixology Cubes by Teaspresso. Drop in a flute of prosecco for a fresh and fizzy cocktail. 
ggathome.com

Cooked, Centerbrook
Lots of us are cutting back on alcohol, and it’s easy with the huge selection of delicious canned mocktails on offer at Cooked in Essex.
cookedmarketplace.com/

Rose Sangria is a fresh spin on a summery sangria. Mix with grapefruit liqueur and prosecco, or skip the prosecco for a lighter drink and add seltzer.
Here’s the recipe:
Four parts Rosé
One part Giffard Pink Grapefruit liqueur (available at Wine Thief, Madison)
Thinly sliced cucumbers (with skin)
Optional: top with club soda or sparkling wine

Yogurt Onion Dip
Everyone loves onion dip, and I mix it up with 0% fat Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, so it’s practically guilt-free! Just mix one package of onion soup mix into 8 oz of yogurt. Serve with Big Y’s store-made potato chips. 

Savour Cafe & Bakery, Centerbrook
Savour is a favorite of ours for festive birthday cakes, all manner of treats, and yummy takeout meals and salads. You might find that perfect cake in the case, but we suggest ordering ahead. 
thesavourcafe.com

Pursuit of Pastry, Old Saybrook
Yes, of course, you can order any of their fabulous cakes and pies in their signature turquoise box (the mousse bombe is crazy), but we also love the idea of a plate of hand pies so everyone can choose their favorite fruit (no fork required!). 
pursuitofpastry.com/

More party ideas: cocktail trucks, photo VW van, balloon installations and more:
the-e-list.com/party-season/