Simple summer food that is more than a snack but less than a lunch

After driving 5 hours, people are hungry (assuming they haven't a lot of snacks on the way). First, though, give everyone a big glass of water, or lemonade, etc. to help re-hydrate them.

I'd then offer a tartine made with whatever size piece of baguette, halved, each guest wants, topped with a bit of avocado mashed with lemon juice and parsley, topped with a slice of bacon, cut into bite-sized bits (or torn prosciutto, or leave off for non-carnivores), topped with a small handful of arugula, topped with red onion pickles (make the ones here, a few hours ahead of time: https://food52.com/recipes/29712-low-maintenance-fish-tacos). If you have some ripe tomatoes, they'd be a nice addition, too. ;o)

I like to let people choose so I put out a variety of things so that they can graze as we chat.

I would do the complete opposite of what is being discussed.

Assuming the restaurant dinner is the highlight of their arrival day, I would just serve a snack, preferably vegetable heavy rather than something with lots of starch, dairy or other animal protein.

But that's just me...

A salad with lots of summer vegetables and fruit cut into large chunks; hummus and triscuits; a plate of cheeses and apples and different crackers; a small pizza; finger sandwiches and fruit. Good for you for thinking of this; you must be a wonderful host.