First let’s start with hors d’oeuvres. Hors d’oeuvres are small savory servings of food that can be presented in a variety of ways - as a dip or spread with crackers on the side, or a little sandwich. Canapés are a type of hors d’oeuvres that’s small (one or two bite) and has a base of a slice of bread, pastry or a cracker. Canapés are typically served before a meal, usually with cocktails. Hors d’oeuvres can be served either with cocktails or at the dining table as a first course.