When it comes to catering lunch for a group of people, it’s essential to consider various options to ensure that everyone is satisfied. Whether you’re hosting a business lunch, a team-building event, or looking for recurring catering lunch ideas for your office, the food you serve can make all the difference in creating a memorable experience.
If you’re looking for catering lunch ideas that are sure to please, we’ve got you covered. Here are 15 different suggestions to consider and trendy in 2023.
The Trendy Catering Lunch Ideas For The New Year
#1. Sandwich Platter
A sandwich platter is a convenient and delicious catering option that is perfect for a variety of events and occasions. Typically, a sandwich platter includes a variety of sandwich options, from classic deli sandwiches like turkey and ham to more unique options like vegetarian or vegan sandwiches. Along with sandwiches, a sandwich platter may also include sides like chips, salads, or fruit. One great thing about a sandwich platter is that it offers something for everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions or preferences. This makes it a great option for events where you may not know everyone’s food preferences, such as corporate events or parties.
#2. Salad Bar
A salad bar is a great option for guests who are looking for a lighter, healthier lunch. Provide a variety of greens, vegetables, toppings, and dressings to let guests customize their own salads. For those who prefer a heartier meal, consider offering Mediterranean Bowls that include options like hummus, falafel, olives, and feta cheese.
#3. Taco Bar
A taco bar as a corporate catering lunch idea includes a variety of taco fillings and toppings, such as seasoned beef or chicken, black beans, rice, lettuce, cheese, and salsa. With a taco bar, guests can customize their tacos to their liking, allowing for a personalized and satisfying dining experience. Along with traditional taco fillings, you can also offer more unique options, such as grilled fish or shrimp, roasted vegetables, or even different types of tortillas like corn or flour. A taco bar is a great option for those who are looking for a fun and interactive dining experience that is perfect for all cultures and diets.
#4. Pizza Buffet
Typically, a pizza buffet includes a variety of pizza options, from classic cheese and pepperoni to more unique toppings like barbecue chicken or vegetable medley. Along with pizza, a pizza buffet may also offer a variety of sides and salads to accompany your meal. The all-you-can-eat nature of a pizza buffet allows you to sample a variety of different pizzas and toppings, making it a great option for those who are looking to satisfy a variety of different tastes and preferences.
#5. Mediterranean Bowls
This option is a healthy and flavorful lunch that is perfect for those who are looking for a vegetarian or gluten-free option. The Mediterranean Bowl typically includes a base of grains like quinoa or rice, topped with fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives. Then, a healthy dose of protein is added with falafel or hummus. Feta cheese adds a tangy flavor to the dish, while a dollop of tzatziki sauce ties everything together. The Mediterranean bowl is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning taste buds.
#6 Poke Bowls
This fresh and healthy catering lunch option features a base of sushi-grade rice, topped with fresh vegetables like avocado, edamame, and cucumber. The bowl is then loaded up with fresh sushi-grade fish, like tuna or salmon, and seasoned with a variety of sauces, like soy sauce or sriracha. A sprinkle of sesame seeds gives the bowl an added crunch. A poke bowl is a great option for those who are looking for a lighter lunch option that still packs a punch of flavor.
#7 Wraps and Rolls
One great thing about wraps and rolls is that they can be customized to fit different dietary needs and preferences. For example, if you’re vegetarian, you can fill your wrap or roll with a variety of veggies and plant-based proteins, like tofu or tempeh. If you’re looking for a higher protein option, you can add grilled chicken, turkey, or steak. And if you’re gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free tortilla or rice paper.
#8 Sushi Platters
A sushi platter is a sophisticated and healthy option that features a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese delicacies. It might not always come as the first choice for delivery, but some catering companies are able to deliver them while keeping them fresh! Mix and match delicious flavors like Salmon, Eel, and crabs with avocado, ginger and wasabi! Our all-time favorite? The Dragon-roll! Rest assured sushis will be a hit in your office, so make sure to order more than 6 per person.
#9 Indian Food
Indian catering is a flavorful and exotic option that is sure to impress your guests. This lunch option typically includes dishes like chicken tikka masala, vegetable korma, and samosas. These dishes are often served with fragrant basmati rice or fluffy naan bread. Indian food is a great option for those who are looking for a heartier lunch option that is packed with flavor and spice. It’s also perfect for meat lovers as well as vegans. Indian cuisine is one of the few that have as many flavorful vegan items as it has meat dishes!
#10 Cupcakes/Desserts
This sweet option includes a variety of cupcakes and desserts, like cookies, brownies, and other sweets. Cupcakes are a great option for a dessert that can be customized to fit your event’s theme, whether it’s decorated with your company logo or your favorite colors. Desserts are a great way to finish off a lunch event and leave your guests with a sweet taste in their mouths. They are also perfect for those who have a sweet tooth and are looking for something to satisfy their cravings.
#10 Avocado Toast with A Twist
Avocado toast has become a popular breakfast option in recent years, and for good reason – it’s healthy, filling, and delicious. To give this classic dish a twist, consider adding some Latin American flavors to it. For example, you can add some sliced tomato, crumbled queso fresco, and a sprinkle of Tajin seasoning. This combination of creamy avocado, juicy tomato, tangy cheese, and spicy seasoning is sure to wake up your taste buds and get your day off to a great start.
#11 Huevos Rancheros
Huevos Rancheros is a classic Latin American breakfast dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. This dish typically consists of a fried egg served on a bed of black beans, topped with salsa and avocado. You can also add some crumbled queso fresco or sour cream for an extra touch of creaminess. Huevos Rancheros is a great option for those who are looking for a hearty breakfast that’s full of protein and fiber. It’s also a great way to explore the flavors of Latin American cuisine and start your day with a bit of spice.
#12 BBQ Buffet
Typically, a BBQ buffet includes a variety of grilled meats like chicken, ribs, and burgers, as well as sides like potato salad, coleslaw, and corn on the cob. Along with the traditional BBQ options, you may also include vegetarian options like grilled vegetables or veggie burgers. The laid-back nature of a BBQ buffet makes it a great option for those who are looking to enjoy good food and good company in a relaxed and comfortable environment. With a BBQ buffet, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal while taking in the sunshine and fresh air of the great outdoors.
#13 Full Vegan Meal
A fully vegan catering lunch may include a variety of options such as vegan sandwiches, salads, wraps, burgers with a vegan patty, and plant-based protein options like tofu or tempeh. Additionally, there are many vegan-friendly sides and desserts available that can provide a sweet and satisfying finish to the meal. With the rise in popularity of plant-based diets, fully vegan catering options are becoming increasingly common, making it easier than ever to provide a tasty and satisfying meal for all of your guests, regardless of their dietary preferences. A fully vegan catering lunch is a great way to show that you care about the health and well-being of your guests, as well as the planet.
#14 Burger Bar
A burger bar is a fun and interactive catering option that is perfect for a casual and laid-back event. A typical burger bar includes a variety of burger patties, buns, and toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, cheese, and sauces. With a burger bar, guests can customize their burgers to their liking, allowing for a personalized and satisfying dining experience. Along with traditional burger toppings, you can also offer more unique options, such as avocado, bacon, or caramelized onions. For those who prefer a vegetarian or vegan option, you can also offer veggie or plant-based burger patties. With its wide variety of options, a burger bar is sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it a great choice for any event or occasion.
#15 Cuban Food
Cuban food is a flavorful and diverse cuisine that is perfect for catering lunch. A blend of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, resulting in a unique and delicious culinary experience. Some popular Cuban dishes include classic sandwiches like the Cubano, as well as hearty stews like Ropa Vieja and flavorful rice and bean dishes like Moros y Cristianos. Cuban cuisine is often characterized by its use of bold and vibrant flavors, such as citrus, garlic, and cumin, which make it a popular and memorable catering option. Additionally, there are many vegetarian and vegan Cuban dishes available that can accommodate a variety of dietary preferences. If you’re looking to provide your guests with a unique and flavorful catering lunch idea, Cuban food is a great choice that is sure to leave a lasting impression
Looking For More Catering Lunch Ideas?
If you’re looking for more catering lunch ideas, there are many different resources and approaches you can take to find inspiration. One option is to look to popular food blogs or recipe websites, which often offer a variety of unique and creative catering ideas. You can also reach out to professional caterers or restaurants for ideas and recommendations, as they often have experience in planning and executing successful catering events. Social media platforms like Instagram or Pinterest can also be a great source of inspiration, as they allow you to see photos and ideas from other events and gatherings. Another approach is to ask for suggestions from friends or colleagues who have planned similar events in the past, as they may have valuable insights and recommendations. Ultimately, the key to finding great catering ideas is to be open and creative and to explore a variety of different sources to find the perfect option for your event.
Not Everything Has To Be Catering For Lunch
When it comes to catering lunch ideas for the office, it’s important to remember that not every option has to be a traditional catering setup. In fact, individual boxed or packaged meals can be a great alternative that offers a number of benefits. With individual boxes or packages, each guest can have their own personalized meal that can be tailored to their specific dietary needs or preferences. Additionally, individual boxes or packages can be easy to distribute and can help reduce waste, as each guest only takes what they need. This option also allows for flexibility in terms of where guests can enjoy their meals, as they can easily take their meals to a separate area for a change of scenery or a more private setting. So, if you’re looking for a unique and practical catering lunch option for your office event, individually boxed or packaged meals can be a great choice.