Occasions / Nobody will notice

Hosting non-keto guests

The best keto dinner party is one where nobody notices it is keto. Build the menu around the things a great restaurant does anyway: a seared protein, a rich side, a bright salad and a chocolate dessert, with a bread basket or potatoes on the side for anyone who wants them.

The game plan

Pick a menu that is naturally low-carb, not one that needs substitutes.
Offer one optional starch on the side (good bread, roast potatoes) so guests do not miss anything.
Make dessert ahead: custards, mousse and cheesecake are better the next day.
Set up a bar with brut sparkling, a dry white, a red and spirits with soda.
Do not announce it is keto. Let people enjoy dinner.

Go for

Starters
Shrimp cocktail, deviled eggs, smoked salmon rounds.
Mains
Reverse-sear ribeye, roast chicken, salmon or duck.
Sides
Creamed spinach, roasted Brussels sprouts, cauliflower mash.
Dessert
Chocolate pots de crème or panna cotta.

Pass on

Keto bread and pasta stand-ins
Serve the naturally low-carb dishes instead; they impress more.
Announcing the diet
Unless someone asks.

What to say

“It’s just a steakhouse dinner at home.”

What to drink

Brut nature Champagne
5 oz0–1 g
Yes Cabernet Sauvignon
5 oz3–4 g
Limit Sauvignon Blanc
5 oz2.5–3.5 g
Limit Keto espresso martini
4 oz1–2 g
Yes

Bring or make

Recipes for this occasion

Starters

Quick answers

What should I serve non-keto guests?

A steakhouse-style menu works for everyone: steak or roast chicken, creamed spinach, a salad and a chocolate dessert. Add one optional side of bread or potatoes for guests who want it.

General guidance, not medical advice. See our health disclaimer.