It’s no secret that everyone looks forward to the meal at a catered event, which means there’s nothing worse than a lackluster menu. Don’t worry, the catering menu ideas below will blow away your guests.
Plan a stellar event and create a menu that leaves guests raving by using any of the catering menu ideas below.
Novelty and Variety
Switch gears completely with a menu that gives guests a chance to try something they normally wouldn’t. Impress them with cuisines that are out of this world or highlight local flavours.
Offer a Mediterranean dip platter with hummus, tzatziki, and taramasalata, and fresh pita, crackers, and olives for something outside the usual realm. Instead of the usual panini, think outside the box; try avocado and grilled chicken or open-faced eggplant sandwiches.
Source local ingredients for dishes, such as heirloom tomatoes and fresh vegetables. Glazed steak fajitas, maple-syrup salmon, and cauliflower sides will have guests’ mouths watering. The menu is sure to be appetizing.
Different Bars
The bar doesn’t need to be limited to the usual wine and liquor selection. Quench everyone’s thirst with catering menu ideas that range from coffee and champagne to fruit juice and pop.
Include a coffee bar with different brews, espressos, cappuccinos, and teas; you could even include alcoholic varieties. Serve freshly pressed juices in a juice bar, from orange and pineapple to a mix of fruit for a tasty, healthy alternative. Bubbly bars with different types of champagne and garnishes make for a cute treat as well.
Complete the look and serve drinks in matching glassware as appropriate. Let knowledgeable bartenders entertain guests and explain the origins of different drinks. An assortment of beverages keeps everyone hydrated and pleases all taste buds.
Brunch for Dinner
Don’t let scrambled eggs and toast cloud your judgment—brunch for dinner is a great idea! Offer fresh fried egg on toasts, fruit cups, and avocado eggs benedict. Bring in a Belgian waffle stand for guests to create their own delectable breakfast dessert, with fresh fruit and sweet cream. Serve smoked salmon, cream cheese varieties, and fresh Montreal-style bagels.
Mimosas, Caesars, and light drinks are perfect to serve alongside standard alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Brunch offers a classy, colourful spread that works at any time of the day.
Updated Classics
Catering menu ideas can also extend beyond traditional dishes. While they’re crowd-pleasing, tried and true, and taste great, classics can benefit from a twist. Add that extra wow factor and take these dishes into today’s century.
Serve the classic roasted chicken Tandoori-style. Serve the usual roasted vegetables on skewers instead of in a plated pile. Offer gourmet grilled cheese, stuffed with a variety of mushrooms, prosciutto, asiago, and goat cheese. For dessert, arrange strawberries and brownies on skewers drizzled with chocolate.
Bold tastes and flair can bring a new twist to old favourites.
Themed Buffets
Despite the number of unique food set-up ideas available, a buffet doesn’t have to be boring. They’re also easy to organize. They also allow attendees to pick and choose their own portion sizes.
Pick a buffet theme that’s in line with your party theme, preferably one that allows guests to mix up their daily menu. Indian, Thai, and Mediterranean are just a few possible catering menu ideas with appetizing dishes where guests can experience new flavours and cultures.
Serve Indian dishes, pairing mild and spicy food with vegetarian options like chickpea curry, and incorporate side dishes like naan and chutney to go with it. Classic Italian entrees can be served after an appetizer of focaccia, marinated olives, and antipasto.
If the main course is plated, serve dessert buffet style by having a candy bar, cookie varieties, and gourmet doughnuts for a mix of treats that allows guests to sample everything.
