I'm with you on less is more. Simple preparations of ingredients of the utmost quality. Things you can't mess up as the night (and drinking) go on

I'd start with cold shellfish maybe with caviar and accoutrements if you want to splurge.
A roast tenderloin, a prime rib, or if you want to get fancy, a beef wellington.
Creamed spinach and hasselback potatoes for the sides.
A baguette, a loaf of bread, or dinner rolls from your best local bakery, and while you're there pick up something decadent with chocolate for dessert, or petit fours for variety.