With 2019 coming to a close, and many of us looking forward to the new year, we are also looking back on what we’ve accomplished. For us here at Cater2.me, we are excited to look back and see another year of successfully bringing teams together over shared meals. We’ve learned a lot, seeing new trends in the catering world pop up, bringing fresh and exciting takes on meals in the office. Read more for some of the best catering ideas of 2019 that we think will carry into 2020.
Build your own bowl
When it comes to catering that works for everyone, it doesn’t get much easier than a build your own meal station. Depending on the cuisine, you can start with a base like rice, quinoa or greens. From there you add whatever veggies, meat and toppings you like. This gives everyone in your office a chance to pick their favorite foods and make a unique meal that fits into their dietary restrictions and preferences. It’s much less work for you and always a crowd pleaser. We don’t see this trend leaving the scene anytime soon!
Health inspired catering
New Year’s resolutions can often be centered around health. Many people will commit to a new gym membership or a healthy dieting plan, especially after indulging over the holidays. We’ve already seen a trend in health inspired catering over the past year and we only expect that demand to grow in the new year as many are trying to get back on track. Things like smoothie bars, acai bowls, salads and clean eats are fun and delicious ways to eat healthy in the office this year.
Food Trucks
In our opinion, one of the best catering ideas is food trucks! Food trucks are a fun way to get affordable, local cuisine in your city, but did you know that you can actually cater that food right to your office? Many food trucks partner with caterers, like Cater2.me, to serve their food on a larger scale. Some people even bring in the whole truck for special events! It’s a fun and easy way for your team to try new, authentic cuisines that we think will stand the test of time.
Happy Hours
At the end of the week, there’s nothing better than getting together with your team for happy hour. Now, you can have happy hour catered right to your office at the end of the workday. No worrying about going to a loud bar or restaurant and trying to find a table big enough to sit together. You can kick back, relax and enjoy good food, drinks and conversation.
Eco Friendly Catering
Many offices are making moves to become more sustainable and environmentally friendly. When it comes down to it, their corporate catering is no exception! Cutting down on plastic packaging and switching to more Eco-friendly plate and utensil options are just a few ways to make office catering more sustainable. This is a trend we imagine will not only carry into the new decade, but will grow and evolve as we figure out new ways to cut down on waste.
Celebratory Catering
From birthdays to work anniversaries to employee appreciation, there is always a reason to celebrate with your team! Catering is a great way to show your employees you care about them and take time to bond. We think celebratory catering is here to stay as long as people keep finding reasons to enjoy time together.
Specialty Stations
One of the best catering ideas of 2019 is specialty stations. These are a great addition to any celebration. From a hot chocolate bar at your office holiday party to a make-your-own crepe station for dessert. Specialty stations are sure to add a fun element to any festivities. Have a popcorn party for an afternoon pick-me-up or an ice cream sundae bar in the hot summer months!
2019 has been a fun year of catering office lunches and events. We’ve seen all of these new, fun and inspiring ideas come to life. We watched office teams bond and grow closer over shared meals. Most importantly, we’ve seen workplace cultures improve and heard success stories. And we can’t wait to see what 2020 has in store!
