[Sca-cooks] nibbling and buffet tables and such

[Ted Eisenstein]

A question that occurred to me on another list. . .

There is a custom in some kingdoms (well, in at least one. . . )
of having a table of nibbles and bite-sized cocktail-party-type
food outside a vigil tent, for those waiting in line to talk to the
person on vigil and interested bystanders.

Was there anything remotely like this, in period? Not necessarily
outside a vigil tent, but more generic; a table or five, full of
small food items, for, oh, breaking a fast on a major high holy
day when there's no time for a regular breakfast, or to last you
until the real breakfast, or before or right after courts or
gatherings-of-lords-and-retainers to discuss business. You know,
a buffet, for when there wasn't time for a full meal, or people
simply needed something to tide them over?

Alban