Verve serves up a spread of hip Lilliputian delicacies.

Creamy rolls and liquid gold Salami with buttered cheese and tequila

The piquant titbits are almost a light meal unto themselves, especially when there is a mind-boggling variety to choose from. Finger foods can also precede a more significant dinner or luncheon, making special appearances as stand-up starters.

Rarely caught alone, these hors d'oeuvres – as they are popularly called – are often courted by tall glasses of lush liquid. A match made in heaven, or rather, the kitchen, cocktails and canapés perform their gastronomic histrionics in tandem, leaving their fans yearning for an encore.

Shrimps in high spirits Spiced tartlets and a chilled quencher

Snacks on a stick Cucumber cups and bittersweet brandy

"Small snacks are essential to a party, especially when drinks are being served. Though a strict vegetarian, I pig out on all kinds of finger foods. When entertaining at home, I often serve kebabs, even the non-vegetarian ones. My own speciality is a healthy curd and fresh vegetable dip. When I am out, I really savour tandoori bites, baby cutlets, spring rolls, wontons and sesame toasts."