Picture this: You’re sitting through a long conference, feeling drained. Suddenly, you hear the clatter of plates and smell the aroma of delicious food. Your spirits lift as you realise that it’s time for lunch. You head to the catering station and find delicious dishes waiting for you. Suddenly, your mood lifts, and you feel energised and ready to tackle the rest of the day!

This scenario is precisely why the catering menu is so important for corporate events. It’s not just about nourishment; it’s about creating an experience that will keep your guests excited and satisfied. 

In this blog, we’ll show you how to design a perfect catering menu that will tantalise your attendees’ taste buds. We’ll also provide a selection of menus that you can choose from for your upcoming corporate event. From selecting the appetisers to choosing the ideal dessert, we’ve got you covered. 

So, let’s dive in and create a menu that will have your guests eagerly anticipating your next event!

Knowing your crowd

Catering to an event means first understanding who’s on the guest list. Are you dealing with executives? Or are you hosting a casual event in the office? Will you go for a posh, plated dinner with all the fancy fixings, or a more interactive buffet-style spread?  Once you know your guests, you can make informed decisions about what food to serve up. 

Whatever you decide, make sure you’re offering up at least two appetisers, two entrees, and two dessert options – all of them seriously scrumptious, of course. And don’t forget to get the lowdown on any dietary restrictions or allergies beforehand. After all, a happy guest is a well-fed guest!

Selecting appetisers

Think of appetisers like the opening act to a great show. They’re the warm-up that sets the stage for the main event and gets guests pumped up for what’s to come. So when choosing your appetisers, go for a variety of options that’ll appeal to everyone’s taste buds. 

Whether you’re planning a formal event or a laid-back conference, make sure your appetisers match the vibe. If you’re going all-out, treat your guests to some fancy bites like salmon tartare or foie gras pate. But for a more casual affair, you can serve finger foods like mini tacos or bruschettas.

Designing the main course

In the world of catering, the main course is like the star of the show. It’s the dish everyone’s been waiting for – the one that can make or break the whole menu. So how do you create a main course that will leave a lasting impression on your guests?

First things first, your main course should be delicious and satisfying. You want your guests to leave feeling like they’ve just had the best meal of their lives. Think about what type of cuisine will wow your guests and reflect the unique vibe of your event. Whether you’re going for traditional food or something more daring and innovative, make sure your main dish does justice to the occasion.

But it’s not just about the taste – presentation counts too. Your main course should look as good as it tastes. Think about how you can play with colour, texture, and garnishes to create a show-stopping plate. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with plating techniques. After all, a beautifully presented dish can take the whole experience to the next level. 

Choosing desserts

Finding the ideal dessert for your catering menu is like adding the frosting to a cake – it’s the final sweet touch that can take it from good to amazing. It’s that sweet, indulgent bite that leaves your guests on a high note. But let’s not sugarcoat it, picking the perfect treat can be a real head-scratcher. 

With so many delicious options to consider, it’s easy to get stuck in a sugar-laced maze. That’s why it’s important to consider the overall theme of your corporate event. For example, if you’re hosting a black-tie affair, elegant desserts like chocolate mousse or crème brûlée would fit right in. On the other hand, if you’re hosting a fun-filled holiday party, playful treats like mini cupcakes or ice cream bars might be the perfect choice.

Staying on top of your budget

Choosing a catering service that offers quality is essential, but it doesn’t have to come at a high cost. It’s crucial to remain within your budget while selecting a catering service that also offers delicious food. Collaborate with a reputable catering company to design a menu that will impress your guests without breaking the bank.

It’s important to do your research and look for reviews from past clients. This will give you an idea of the quality of service and cuisine the company provides, allowing you to make an informed decision.

To ensure you stay within your budget, obtain quotations from catering companies. These companies typically employ various pricing approaches, such as fixed costs and quantities for each item, tiered pricing based on the number of guests, or customised pricing for each attendee.

Additionally, be sure to specify the number of guests attending your event and any special equipment or services required.

Finding a reputable catering company

When searching for a caterer, it’s crucial to find one with a reputation for delivering exceptional service and delicious cuisine.

Your caterer should be experienced in catering for corporate events and able to provide food for your specific guest count. But that’s not all. They should also be able to create a customised menu that suits your event’s theme and budget, while accommodating any dietary restrictions or preferences. Your guests will thank you for the amazing food and personalised menu!

Your caterer should also offer top-notch service, with professional and attentive staff who will take care of your guests’ needs. From efficient delivery and prompt setup to seamless service, your caterer should make your event run smoothly and stress-free.

Handling short-notice requests

A catering service that can adjust to changes in guest count or accommodate last-minute menu requests is a definite advantage. When it comes to catering, flexibility is key, and a great caterer should be able to pivot and deliver an outstanding dining experience no matter what changes may arise.

In addition to being flexible, a great caterer should keep the communication lines open at all times. They should be proactive in reaching out to you and keeping you in the loop to ensure that your requests and expectations are understood and met. By providing real-time updates and being available to answer any questions, your caterer can build trust and provide an exceptional catering experience even with sudden changes.

Sample menus for corporate events

Here are a few sample menu ideas for corporate events that are sure to impress your guests:

Sample Menu 1: Classic Corporate Lunch

Appetiser:

• Mixed green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
• Bread and butter

Main Course:

• Grilled chicken breast with mushroom sauce
• Roasted potatoes
• Grilled seasonal vegetables

Dessert:

• Assorted cookies
• Fresh fruit platter

Beverages:

• Iced tea
• Water

Sample Menu 2: Healthy Corporate Lunch

Appetiser:

• Mixed green salad with vinaigrette dressing
• Stuffed mushrooms

Main Course:

• Grilled salmon with lemon dill sauce
• Quinoa pilaf with roasted vegetables
• Steamed green beans

Dessert:

• Yogurt parfaits with granola and berries
• Seasonal fresh fruit salad

Beverages:

• Lemonade
• Iced Tea

Sample Menu 3: Upscale Corporate Dinner

Appetiser:

• Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella and basil
• Baked brie with apples and pecans

Main Course:

• Grilled filet mignon with red wine sauce
• Rosemary roasted potatoes
• Asparagus with lemon butter

Dessert:

• Chocolate mousse
• Crème brûlée

Beverages:

• Red and white wine
• Sparkling water

Final thoughts

And there you have it, the key ingredients to crafting the perfect catering menu for your corporate event! From appetisers to desserts, it’s all about striking a balance between flavour, presentation, and dietary needs. 

And remember, preparation is key! By starting early and collaborating closely with your catering team, you can ensure that everything runs smoothly on the day of the event. 

When it comes to delivering exceptional catering services for your next corporate function in Melbourne, look no further than Elizabeth Andrews Corporate Catering. With our unparalleled culinary expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction, your event is sure to be a resounding success. So why wait? Contact us today and let us help you create an unforgettable experience for all your guests!