There are many events that require catering, some examples include cocktail parties, weddings, holiday parties, corporate events and other such functions. When you are hosting an event and want a caterer, you want to ensure the appetizers, dishes, beverages, and dessert are delicious, and most importantly the service is of high quality. Not all events are alike and depending on the venue, the food and beverages will also be fitting the occasion. Today, we at Married to Food by Chef Marcel and Jeannie would like to take an example, catering lunch as an event coordinator for a corporate setting, to offer some tips and advice.
Questions to Ask when Catering an Event
It is important to first recognize that your clients wants and needs come first. Where not all lunch events will be identical, it is appropriate to offer recommendations based on the type of business event and venue in addition to the number of guests. Below is some information you will want to know:
1) The occasion; if the event is formal, if the lunch is a sit-down and serve, or is it a grab and go.
2) The service; is it buffet style or plated. Do not make the assumption that because most lunches are buffet style, yours will be, always ask.
3) Number being served; knowing if there are hundreds or under a dozen as it will determine the food more appropriate for cost and other options.
4) The venue; catering occurs at a large venue where the staff and facilities are event-ready makes a difference than the lunch done in a private home or an orthodox setting.
Business Lunch Meeting Menu Ideas
If you need a few ideas for lunch, consider some of the classics below.
Deli Buffets: Including mostly finger food that’s easy to select, a deli buffet is a popular option that pleases most crowd especially if you need to include options that are kosher, gluten-free, and for vegetarians. Deli buffets frequently include mixed green salad with a variety of dressings, potato salad, frit salad, and chips, multiple options of healthy and not-so-healthy breads, 3 types of meats and cheeses, sandwich bread such as mayo, mustard, and more, and a dessert tray of brownies, cookies, or both.
American and Ethnic Themed Buffets: Many caterers have several different themed lunches, like Asian food, Italian food, Mexican food, or American food. Some corporate lunches enjoy the food theme or even a variety of themes.
American: Fries and burgers
Italian: Pizza, pastas,
Mexican: Tacos and fajita stations
Asian: Stir-fries, spring rolls, noodles, or rice dishes.
Box Lunches: Boxed lunches usually include sandwiches or wraps that are turkey, roast beef, ham, and vegetarian selections, that are offered options like gluten-free breads and desserts, piece of fresh fruit, chips and cookie, along with a variety condiments and plastic utensils and napkins.
Build Your Own Lunches: Build your own lunches including, vegetable salads, fruit salads, soups, along with entrees, and popular desserts are also popular.
Beverages: A variety of drinks to go along with their meal is essential. There are many options from soft drinks, flavored vitamin waters, energy drinks, water, coffee, tea, and other options should be made ready.
Catering & More in Beverly Hills, Calabasas, Encino, La Canada Flintridge, Marina Del Rey, Rancho Palos Verdes, Santa Monica & Greater Los Angeles, California
For all your catering options, Married to Food by Chef Marcel and Jeannie is readily available. Contact us for all your catering needs!
