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Expanding the Borders of BBQ

Across the country, more and more barbecue aficionados are seeking out globally influenced flavors and grilling traditions like Brazilian churrasco. In its 2024 What’s Hot Culinary Forecast, the National Restaurant Association ranked “International BBQ” number three on its top 10 overall trends list. Catching fire are styles ranging from Chilean and Argentinean asado to Japanese yakitori to Korean barbecue, says Helen Jane Hearn, the association’s senior director for enterprise programs.

“We’re also seeing flavor mashups from different cultures, like bulgogi tacos or curry-infused barbecue sauces,” says Hearn.

Peak Creations

Not that long ago with outdoor events, tents tended to be an event planner’s lackluster plan B—something to fall back on if black clouds and a solid drenching threatened your garden party.

Today, though—with new engineering, advanced tech including HVAC systems and electricity, not to mention stylish new formats—tenting systems are serving as full-fledged temporary event venues. Whether you opt for a sleek black conservatory style or a flower-strewn white pole tent, at their best tent installations add both a “wow” factor and functionality.

A Tale of Two Kitchens

While a kitchen renovation may be high on the wish list, it often gets relegated to the backburner due to cost, disruption and the time you know it will take. And yet, it’s often a major key to growth.

Consider the stories of Ridgewells Catering in Washington, D.C., and 24 Carrots Catering & Events in Costa Mesa, California, two of the largest caterers in the country. The first stands on the precipice of a significant renovation. The latter has been basking in the success of its extensive renovation since 2018. Both owners understand that while kitchen rehauls present many challenges, the investment will pay off for years to come.

Next-Generation Classics

At the hard-to-get-into pastaRAMEN in Montclair, New Jersey, diners don’t have to decide if their meal will include Italian flavors or Japanese flavors. They’ll get both in such crowd-pleasing dishes as Cacio e Pepe Gyoza and Temomi Ramen Shrimp Scampi.

The restaurant exemplifies a major 2024 food trend in the U.S.: European 2.0. Classic European cuisines such as Italian are evolving stateside and growing in popularity, according to food-and-beverage market research firm Datassential, which identified the trend. Restaurants serving modern European cuisine are opening across the U.S., displaying new ideas, next-generation ingredients and dishes that are lesser-known to U.S. consumers.

Feasts for the Senses

Guests attending catered events these days are likely to find food and drink that’s right up their alley. After all, caterers are coming up with ever-more creative stations where diners can customize dishes to their liking.

And not only do these stations feature a variety of flavors but their presentation also heightens the appeal, with friendly chef attendants, innovative serving vessels, imaginative designs and clever concepts. We’ve rounded up a variety of successful stations from caterers across the country, featuring savory dishes, desserts and cocktails, and incorporating such customer-favorite trends as live cooking, Asian flavors and next-level charcuterie.

The Enduring Allure of Mexican

Whether they’re craving quesadillas, longing for elote or pining for pozole, consumers’ appetite for Mexican cuisine shows no signs of abating. According to market research firm CivicScience, a third of U.S. adults name Mexican food as their favorite cuisine—and it’s the top choice for those under age 55.

Specialty Success

When couples decide they want a certain kind of wedding, they often turn to the experts—planners and caterers who specialize. These professionals know how to turn the dreams of their clients into reality. CFE touched base with four such gurus—whose specialties include eco-friendly, South Asian and destination weddings—to learn more about their businesses and how they’re filling an in-demand niche.

Time to Celebrate

After the vows, it’s time for the “wows”—when the newlywed couple celebrates their union with friends and family. To help make your wedding receptions in 2024 more memorable than ever, we’ve rounded up ideas from industry experts, who share fun and interesting trends they’re seeing in drinks and desserts (watch this space for part two of this article, listing 12 décor and entertainment reception trends).

Tabletop Trends

Deliver big on both style and sustainability this holiday season with these tablescape design tips from industry experts.

A charcuterie plate from Minneapolis-based D'Amico Catering, featuring Manchego, whipped ricotta, prosciutto, Genoa salami, beech mushrooms, pistachios and fresh herbs. Photo by Märit Williams Photography

Festive Foods

’Tis the season to get those holiday menus ready! If you’re still working on the details, get inspired by the highlights shared by the caterers profiled here. But don’t wait too long—according to CFE’s sources, clients are booking early and are eager to celebrate the season!

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