In recent years, there has been a shift in catering trends away from traditional plated dinners and toward more creative and interactive options. Two popular options that have emerged are small plates and family style.
Small plates, also known as tapas or appetizers, have become increasingly popular for events such as cocktail parties and receptions. The idea behind small plates is to offer a variety of dishes for guests to sample and share, rather than one large entrée. This allows guests to try a variety of flavors and textures, and it also encourages conversation and socializing. Some popular small plate options include sliders, sushi, and charcuterie boards.
Another trend in catering is family style, which is a more casual and communal approach to dining. Family style meals involve large platters or bowls of food that are shared among guests. This can include items such as roasted meats, vegetables, and pasta dishes. The concept of family style is to create a more relaxed atmosphere where guests can interact and enjoy each other’s company while they eat.
Another trend is to provide more personalize options. Some caterer, food trucks are now providing custom-made meals to guests. that can also be a great way to give guests a sense of being special, and also accommodates any dietary restrictions.
Offering both small plates and family style options at an event can be a great way to provide a variety of food for guests to enjoy, and it can also create a fun and interactive atmosphere. With these type of approach in catering, it’s easy to see that this is a trend that will continue to evolve and change as time goes on.
One advantage of small plates is that they allow guests to try a variety of dishes, which can be particularly appealing if the event features a diverse menu or if the guests have different tastes and preferences. Additionally, small plates can be a great way to showcase unique and creative dishes that may be too risky to serve as an entrée.
Another advantage of small plates is that they are generally less expensive than plated meals. This can be a cost-effective option for events where the budget is a concern. Small plates also allow guests to graze and nibble throughout the event, which can be a great way to keep them satisfied without feeling overly full.
On the other hand, family style meals can create a sense of warmth and camaraderie among guests. It’s a great way to encourage conversation and interaction, and it can also be a more cost-effective option than plated meals. Family style meals can also be a great way to highlight traditional or cultural dishes, such as a traditional Italian pasta dish or a Mexican mole.
Customized meals are also on trend. As people have become more health conscious, many guests may have specific dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free, vegetarian or vegan. Customized meals allow caterers to provide food that meets guests’ needs and preferences, which can make them feel more comfortable and satisfied.
Furthermore, with the increasing popularity of farm-to-table and locally-sourced food, many caterers are now offering meals made with locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. This is a great way to support local farmers and provide guests with fresh and high-quality food.
In conclusion, small plates and family-style service are becoming popular in catering, both for their flexibility, affordability, and encouraging social interaction. Customized meals and farm-to-table options are also a hot trend, and caterer are working to accommodate different dietary needs and preferences. Offering small plates and family-style service, as well as customized meals, can be a great way to create a memorable and enjoyable event for guests.