Food Trends

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!

Chef Stephanie Michalak White’s roasted squash and herbed millet salad with tahini dressing

Reaping the Harvest

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.

What’s New in Catering

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.

At F&B@Sea, attendees could network (above and opposite) and watch live cooking and cocktail demonstrations, including at the pop-up Bacardi Speakeasy Experience (top and left).

Sourcing for the High Seas

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.

Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q, with locations in six Southern states, offers guests a variety of proteins and sides.

Hot Off the Grill

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.

Picnics With Panache

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.

Elior is focused on diverting as much “pre-plate” food waste as possible.

Going Greener

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 serving healthy, delicious food while making a positive impact on communities and the environment.

Guests select small bites from hanging glass orbs at this station by Delivering Experiences.

Station Innovation

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 station set-ups—and may inspire your own station creation.

Health and sustainability are two key factors in specialty food trends.

Fresh and Flavorful

While the countries surrounding the Mediterranean—from southern Europe to northern Africa to southwest Asia—vary in culture, customs and cuisine, the traditional diets eaten in those countries share many of the same principles.

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