Did you try using a "cake display counter"? Not sure if "get to work" is required or if a version of the object was added to other packs or base game. I often use this counter display on community lots, and would try it on shared space. Food won't spoil, and sims visiting can grab a dish to sit down and pretend they visit a real café :) I often have a sim responsible for filling up the counter, especially the birthday cakes can go there - they are no longer eaten at the b.day party because it simply gets too many of them (when playing rotationally).
