5 catering trends we’re excited about this year

January 23, 2025 | Lauren Windle

1. Interactive Food Stations
  We’re noticing clients requesting more and more interactive food stations. What’s the pull? It can definitely power up and individualize your guests’ experiences. Built in appeal for younger crowds! For instance:
  Multisensory Chef Stations where you watch our chefs prepare fresh crepes, sushi rolls, pasta, or exotic appetizers in real-time.
  Build-Your-Own Bars: for do-it-yourself tacos, ice cream, desserts, cocktails, and coffee drinks.
  Creative Food and Beverage Pairing:
  Unusual pairings appeal to younger crowds and those who enjoy sharing photos and videos of unique experiences. It’s not just about the taste—it’s all about the aesthetic (color, texture and flavor) and guest engagement.
  Trendy and fun pairings might include appetizers and unusual coordinating wines; craft beers together with companion herbed breads and cheeses; or unique mocktails for a multisensory experience without the buzz.
2. Focus on premium (and often local) meats, seafood, and dairy products that deliver bold, fresh tastes as well as a nod to responsible sourcing. We like:
3. Meat-Centered Gourmet Entrees like rosemary-infused roasted turkey, braised short ribs, and herb-crusted lamb chops.Vegan/Vegetarian Focused entrees are much requested, especially since those requesting the veggies know they are farm-fresh and locally sourced.
  Sustainable Seafood such as wild-caught salmon, seared scallops, or ahi tuna poke bowls.
  Artisan Dairy stations such as truffle-infused mashed potatoes, artisanal cheese boards, and decadent desserts like panna cotta and tres leche cake.
  
  4. Regional Food with a story
  Whether it’s the story of a local family farm or a historic regional cuisine, local and regional menus are in demand as people look for meaningful food options.
  This can be a great way to tie to the place where an event, company or family celebration is being held.
  5. Global Fusion Flavors
  2025 will see an explosion in global fusion menus that feel fresh and unique. We are serving new fusion foods like jerk pork croquettes, or churro waffles with chicken, chips with kimchi dip. The more innovative or surprising, the better.
  There you have it! 5 fun ways to spice up and surprise your guests at your event coming up this year – and make it one to remember.