Bernard O'Shea: Why did we stop having dinner parties and what is the modern equivalent?

Why did we stop having dinner parties, and can they make a comeback in our digitally-dominated world?

Dinner parties were an opportunity to impress and delight guests with gastronomic creativity

Ah, the mid-20th century, when dinner parties were the epitome of social interaction. These events were planned with the precision of a military operation. Hosts would send out formal invitations well in advance, and guests would don their finest attire, ready to partake in an evening of culinary delight and stimulating conversation. 

The dinner party was more than just a meal; it was a social event where hospitality, etiquette and aspiration reigned supreme.