Choosing the perfect food for a work event can mean the difference between a mundane meeting and a memorable gathering. Whether you’re ordering catering for a team lunch or a large corporate affair, the right menu can set the tone, encourage connection and leave everyone feeling satisfied.
Having a go-to list of the best foods for catering can make your job easier and allow you to continually impress your team. Check out these 10 popular food options for office functions, and once you’ve selected your menu, consult our Admin’s Guide to Food at the Office to make sure you don’t miss any important details.
Why is picking the right food so important?
Placing a catering order for work is about more than just getting everyone fed. The food you choose can shape the overall vibe of the event, create excitement among the team and demonstrate an inclusive company culture.
Offering a variety of options for each meeting can help keep team members engaged and encourage attendance. The best catered foods for work meet a range of dietary needs and preferences. When you choose options that will satisfy the entire team, not only will everyone be happy, but you’ll also be able to naturally reduce food waste.
The best catered foods to order for a work event
Each of the following food options can create a fun event atmosphere while also being efficient to serve and easy to eat. When deciding which is right for your next event, consider the nature of the event and the preferences of your team.
1. Sandwich catering
From a classic turkey club to gourmet options with artisan bread and specialty fillings, sandwiches offer something for nearly all dietary preferences. Plus, they’re perfect for both casual and more formal gatherings. Sandwich catering is quick, easy and efficient. As a bonus, many sandwiches can be unrefrigerated for several hours without compromising quality.
2. Mexican catering
When it comes to the best catering for work lunch, Mexican food is a popular crowd-pleaser. With a diverse array of dishes ranging from tacos and burritos to hearty salads and spicy salsas, Mexican cuisine offers flavorsome options for meat-eaters, vegetarians and vegans alike. It’s also a great choice for gluten-free diets. If you really want to make a splash at your next function, explore some exciting Mexican catering ideas, or get inspired with this Mexican catering menu.
3. Italian catering
Pasta, lasagna and risotto are filling and great for a serve-yourself buffet. There are also plenty of vegetarian Italian meals available, such as pasta primavera or Margherita pizza. You can even cater to low-carb diets by offering plates of Italian meats, cheese and olives. With delicious options suitable for large groups, Italian is an excellent choice when ordering catering for work events.
4. BBQ catering
BBQ catering is a robust option packed with many flavors, from spicy and tangy to sweet and smoky. Side dishes like coleslaw, baked beans and cornbread complete a BBQ meal, allowing for a well-rounded spread. You can also easily accommodate dietary restrictions with options like veggie burgers, grilled vegetables or gluten-free sauces.
5. Mediterranean catering
Mediterranean cuisine is renowned for its healthy and flavor-packed dishes, like Greek salads, shawarma, falafel and hummus. It’s also often inclusive, providing ample choices for vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free diets. If you’re looking for a heart-healthy spread packed with ingredients like olive oil, fresh vegetables and lean proteins, Mediterranean catering is a fantastic option.
6. Pizza catering
Virtually everyone loves pizza. The vast array of topping combinations can cater to all tastes, from vegetarians to meat lovers, and even those who like pineapple on their pizza. With the array of crust options now available, including cauliflower and gluten-free, everyone can enjoy a fun pizza party. Pizza catering is also typically a budget-friendly option, making it an excellent choice for feeding larger groups.
7. Sushi catering
Sushi is a unique and sophisticated option with an array of flavors and textures. This Japanese delicacy isn’t just about raw fish; there are numerous vegetarian and cooked options, ensuring everyone has something to enjoy. Sushi rolls, tempura and noodle dishes can all be included in a well-rounded sushi catering menu, allowing you to create a refined meal that’ll impress your colleagues.
8. Breakfast catering
A well-thought-out breakfast catering order can make early morning office meetings much more enjoyable. Who wouldn’t love to start their day with fluffy pancakes, hearty breakfast sandwiches, light yogurt parfaits and fresh fruit? You can also accommodate many dietary preferences by offering vegan or gluten-free pastries and alternative milks. Want to really shake things up? Provide a hearty breakfast spread at your next office lunch for some brunch fun.
9. Vegan-friendly catering
Today, more people are adopting plant-based diets, and catering options have evolved to match this trend. Vegan cuisine offers a number of delicious and nutritious choices, from veggie burgers and salads to grain bowls and beyond. Choosing vegan-friendly catering for office events shows inclusivity and consideration for everyone’s dietary choices.
10. Local food truck catering
You can support your local food scene and add an element of fun and excitement to your office function by ordering food from a neighborhood food truck. It’s often possible to find food trucks offering a wide variety of cuisines from all over the world. Ordering food truck catering is a great way to give your team a taste of the local culture. These mobile eateries also typically use fresh, local ingredients, adding another layer of quality to your event.
Set Yourself Up for Success
Choosing the right foods can help ensure your next office event is a hit. Now that you know all of the best foods for catering, you’ll be ready to spring into action. When it’s time to place your next order, turn to ezCater, where you can choose from over 100,000 restaurants and caterers using one intuitive platform. Start exploring your options today.