The concessions served at live events are winning fans of their own By Sara Perez Webber Game-day food has come a long way from peanuts and Cracker Jack. Today’s concession caterers are pleasing fans of every sport—as well as attendees of other live events—by making sure culinary offerings add to the excitement and are part of the attraction. “A huge part of any … [Read more...] about Foods That Score
Food Trends
Festive Foods
As we head toward the busy end-of-year season, caterers share highlights from their holiday menus ’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 … [Read more...] about Festive Foods
Reaping the Harvest
Caterers are cultivating inspired plant-based menus to satisfy the sprouting number of vegans and vegetarians By Sara Perez Webber Adherents of plant-based diets have more fast-food options than ever. Want a meat-free Whopper at Burger King? No problem—have it your way. Looking for dairy-free milk at Starbucks? You can choose from four varieties. Many caterers are also … [Read more...] about Reaping the Harvest
What’s New in Catering
As more operators look to catering as an attractive revenue stream, here are five trends to watch By Alexus Medina, director of product management, Sabert The next chapter of the catering industry is finally beginning to take shape following years of significant challenges brought on by a once-in-a-generation pandemic. In fact, recent data from ezCater shows catering … [Read more...] about What’s New in Catering
Sourcing for the High Seas
The new F&B@Sea trade show brought together cruise line executives and suppliers in a first-of-its-kind event By Sara Perez Webber Meat protein substitutes, sustainable seafood, and low and no-alcohol beverages—those were a few items cruise lines were interested in sourcing at the recent F&B@Sea trade show. “This was the world’s first event dedicated to cruise … [Read more...] about Sourcing for the High Seas
Hot Off the Grill
Tempt customers with these four sizzling barbecue trends By Connie Jeske Crane Low and slow cooking, lips and fingers sticky with fiery-sweet sauces, and a warm, communal vibe around the table. In America, there is a deep connection with and appreciation for barbecue, rooted in traditions that stretch back centuries. For foodservice professionals, too, there’s a lot to … [Read more...] about Hot Off the Grill
Picnics With Panache
Planners are taking picnics up a notch, creating picture-perfect settings for small gatherings By Sara Perez Webber In the thankfully-behind-us days of the COVID pandemic, the popularity of picnics soared. Picnics, after all, provided a way for people to socialize and enjoy a meal outdoors, without having to worry about indoor dining restrictions. “The pop-up picnic … [Read more...] about Picnics With Panache
Going Greener
After years of expansion, Elior North America builds a cohesive strategy of sustainable practices for its family of companies By Kelly Myers, Elior North America April is Earth Month—an ideal time to look at the sustainability initiatives taking center stage in many service businesses today. At Elior North America, for example, leadership is committed to doing good by … [Read more...] about Going Greener
Station Innovation
Offering tempting dishes and creative themes, caterers serve up their best with guest-pleasing stations By Sara Perez Webber The sky’s the limit when it comes to food station variety. But which ones are most popular with clients and guests? CFE asked six caterers to share details of noteworthy station and buffet offerings. Their answers reflect the trends driving event … [Read more...] about Station Innovation
Specialty Food Association Predicts 2023 Food Trends
The Specialty Food Association (SFA) Trendspotter Panel has predicted what will be hot in specialty food for 2023. The panel was comprised of professionals from diverse segments of the culinary world. “Specialty food consumers are looking to make their meal prep easy but exciting and that is driving many of this year’s trends regarding convenience, packaging improvements and … [Read more...] about Specialty Food Association Predicts 2023 Food Trends