A guide to the different styles of corporate catering (and why boring buffets are officially cancelled)

Corporate Catering… But Make It Delicious

Let’s be honest: the words “corporate catering” don’t exactly scream excitement. For years it’s been associated with curling sandwiches, lukewarm sausage rolls, and that one tray of food no one’s brave enough to touch.

But times have changed.

Modern corporate catering is about experience, interaction, and seriously good food that actually gives people something to talk about (other than spreadsheets). Whether it’s a team-building day, client meeting, product launch, or end-of-year celebration, the right catering style can completely transform the mood of an event.

So, let’s dive fork-first into the different styles of corporate catering—and why there’s something for every workplace, personality, and appetite.

1. The Classic Corporate Buffet (Done Properly)

Yes, buffets still exist—and when done well, they’re brilliant.

Savoury Hot Items

• Mini sausage rolls

• BBQ chicken wings or drumettes

• Meatballs with BBQ or sticky glaze

• Mini sliders or pulled meat buns

• Halloumi bites or vegetable fritters

  
  

Savoury Cold Items

• Wrap pinwheels

• Mini sandwiches or brioche rolls

• Skewers (chicken, veg, or mozzarella & tomato)

• Pasta or grain salad pots

  
  

BBQ-Inspired Finger Options

• Pulled pork or brisket loaded bites

• Smoked chicken pieces

• BBQ-glazed ribs cut into bite-sized portions

• Corn ribs or seasoned wedges

  
  

Vegetarian & Vegan Choices

• Falafel bites with dip

• Grilled vegetable skewers

• Vegan sausage rolls

• Stuffed peppers or mushroom bites

Buffets work particularly well for:

• Training days

• Conferences

• All-day meetings

• Mixed dietary requirements

  
  

The beauty of a buffet is that it lets guests eat at their own pace—perfect for workplaces where people are dipping in and out of sessions. Add a bit of personality (hello, BBQ flavours or grazing-style presentation) and suddenly the buffet is anything but boring.

2. BBQ Corporate Catering: Where Business Meets Fire

Now we’re talking.

BBQ corporate catering combines high-quality food with live cooking and structured service, making it one of the most impactful catering options for modern businesses. When delivered properly, it balances flavour, atmosphere, and reliability, giving companies a catering option that feels memorable without sacrificing professionalism.

What Sets BBQ Corporate Catering Apart?

Unlike traditional catering, BBQ food is:

• Cooked fresh on-site

• Centred around live fire and skilled preparation

• Served hot and at its peak

• Experienced as much as it is eaten

  
  

The visual element of BBQ — smokers, grills, and trailers — adds a sense of theatre that naturally draws people in.

The Corporate Advantage of BBQ Catering

Companies choose BBQ catering because it:

• Creates a relaxed, sociable environment

• Encourages natural conversation

• Breaks down formality without losing structure

• Appeals to a wide range of tastes

• Feels generous and high-value

  
  

It works just as well for internal team events as it does for client-facing occasions.

BBQ Menu Structure Explained

A professional BBQ corporate menu is carefully balanced.

Main Proteins

• Slow-smoked brisket

• Pulled pork or chicken

• BBQ-glazed ribs

• Grilled chicken thighs or wings

• Sausages or burgers

  
  

Slow-cooked items are prepared in advance and finished on-site, ensuring speed and consistency during service.

Vegetarian & Vegan BBQ Options

Modern BBQ catering is inclusive by design:

• Grilled halloumi steaks

• BBQ-marinated vegetables

• Plant-based burgers or sausages

• Stuffed peppers or mushrooms

  
  

These dishes are given the same care and presentation as meat options.

Sides & Accompaniments

Sides are essential to a complete BBQ experience:

• Homemade slaws

• Mac & cheese

• Seasoned wedges or potatoes

• Corn on the cob

• Fresh salads

  
  

Sides add balance and ensure guests feel properly fed.

Sauces & Finishing Touches

A BBQ isn’t complete without sauces:

• House BBQ sauce

• Spicy or smoky variations

• Pickles and relishes

• Fresh toppings

  
  

These allow guests to personalise their plates.

It turns lunch into an event, not just a refuel stop.

Picture this: colleagues chatting around the trailer, watching food being cooked fresh, grabbing plates piled high with smoked meats, grilled vegetables, and proper sides. Suddenly, hierarchy disappears. The CEO is in the same queue as the intern, debating sauces.

That’s the power of BBQ—it’s informal, social, and unforgettable.

3. Street Food Style: Fast, Fresh & Full of Personality

Street food–style catering brings energy, interaction and modern flair to corporate events. It moves away from traditional buffets and sit-down meals, offering food that’s cooked or assembled to order and served directly to guests.

For businesses looking to create a relaxed, contemporary atmosphere while still delivering professional service, street food catering hits the sweet spot.

What Is Street Food–Style Catering?

Street food–style corporate catering is built around a focused menu served from a single point, such as a catering trailer, pop-up kitchen, or serving station. Guests order their food directly, often watching it being prepared or finished in front of them.

Rather than lots of dishes sitting out at once, food is prepared in a steady flow, ensuring freshness and quality.

Why Companies Choose Street Food Catering

Street food catering is popular because it:

• Feels modern and informal without being unprofessional

• Creates interaction between guests and caterers

• Keeps food fresh and made to order

• Reduces food waste

• Encourages movement and conversation

  
  

It turns food service into part of the experience rather than a background detail.

Menus are intentionally tight and well-curated, focusing on a small number of dishes executed exceptionally well.

Service Flow & Event Timing

Street food–style catering works best when service is carefully planned.

Professional service includes:

• Staggered serving times for large groups

• Clear menu boards to speed up ordering

• Experienced staff managing queues efficiently

• Portions designed to be satisfying but easy to eat

  
  

When done properly, queues move quickly and smoothly without disrupting the event schedule.

Ideal Events for Street Food Catering

Street food catering is particularly well suited to:

• Product launches

• Creative industry events

• Team socials and celebrations

• Casual networking events

• Outdoor or semi-outdoor corporate spaces

  
  

It’s a strong choice for companies that want something less formal than a sit-down meal, but more exciting than a buffet.

Indoor vs Outdoor Street Food

Street food catering can work in both settings:

• Outdoor events benefit from trailers and live cooking

• Indoor venues often use pop-up serving stations or bowl food versions

  
  

Menus are adapted to suit space, ventilation and service flow.

Dietary Requirements & Inclusivity

Professional street food catering always includes:

• Vegetarian and vegan options

• Gluten-free alternatives

• Clear allergen information

• Separate preparation areas where needed

  
  

This ensures all guests feel considered and included.

Street Food vs Buffet: What’s the Difference?

Street food:

• Is made to order

• Feels interactive and modern

• Reduces food waste

• Encourages guest engagement

  
  

Buffets:

• Offer wider choice at once

• Work better for strict schedules

• Suit larger groups eating simultaneously

  
  

Both work well — it depends on the event’s goals and atmosphere.

Why Street Food Works for Corporate Culture

Street food removes formality. It encourages people to chat, share recommendations, and enjoy food without pressure. It’s especially effective for breaking the ice at events where guests may not know each other well.

It signals a company culture that values creativity, approachability and experience.

4. Grazing Tables: The “Wow Factor” Option

A visually striking, flexible and social way to cater for corporate events

A grazing table is more than just food laid out on a surface — it’s a carefully curated catering option designed to encourage interaction, movement, and relaxed conversation, while delivering a strong visual impact.

In corporate settings, grazing tables work particularly well when the aim is to create an inviting atmosphere without interrupting the natural flow of the event.

What Is a Grazing Table?

A grazing table is a long, styled food display where guests help themselves throughout the event rather than sitting down to eat at a fixed time. Food is arranged in layers and sections to create both visual appeal and easy access.

Unlike traditional buffets, grazing tables are designed to feel:

• Informal but premium

• Social rather than structured

• Generous without being overwhelming

  
  

They often act as both catering and décor.

Why Companies Choose Grazing Tables

Grazing tables are chosen when businesses want:

• A strong first impression

• A relaxed, welcoming environment

• Food that supports networking and conversation

• Flexible eating for guests arriving at different times

  
  

They are especially effective for client-facing events where atmosphere matters as much as the menu.

Typical Grazing Table Components

A well-balanced grazing table combines variety, texture, and colour, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Meats & Proteins

• Cured meats and cold cuts

• BBQ-style sliced meats (brisket, pulled chicken, pork)

• Smoked sausages or chicken pieces

  
  

Cheeses

• A mix of hard, soft, and blue cheeses

• Clear separation for dietary needs

• Accompaniments such as chutneys or honey

  
  

Breads & Carriers

• Artisan breads

• Crackers and flatbreads

• Breadsticks or crispbreads

  
  

Salads & Fresh Elements

• Seasonal salads

• Olives and antipasti

• Fresh fruit for balance

  
  

Dips & Extras

• Hummus, flavoured creams, or sauces

• Pickles and relishes

• Nuts and seeds (clearly labelled)

  
  

Vegetarian & Vegan Sections

• Grilled vegetables

• Plant-based dips and proteins

• Vegan cheeses or alternatives

  
  

Presentation & Styling

Presentation is at the heart of grazing tables. Every detail is intentional.

Professional grazing tables include:

• Tiered displays to create depth

• Natural textures (wood, slate, greenery)

• Clear labelling for allergens

• Logical food flow to avoid crowding

  
  

The result is a table that looks abundant and inviting, encouraging guests to return throughout the event.

When Grazing Tables Work Best

Grazing tables are ideal for:

• Client receptions

• Corporate open days

• Product launches

• Office celebrations

• Networking events

  
  

They work particularly well when guests are:

• Arriving in waves

• Standing or moving around

• Not expected to sit down for a full meal

  
  

Grazing Tables vs Full Meals

It’s important to be clear: grazing tables are not always a replacement for a full meal, especially for longer events.

They work best when:

• The event is 2–3 hours

• Food is topped up regularly

• Combined with a later hot option if needed

  
  

Many corporate clients pair grazing tables with:

• Bowl food later in the event

• A BBQ main service

• Dessert or sweet tables

  
  

Hygiene & Professional Management

Corporate grazing tables are managed carefully to maintain quality:

• Food is replenished rather than left untouched

• High-risk items are monitored closely

• Separate utensils are used for different sections

• Staff supervise the table discreetly

  
  

This ensures food safety while keeping the experience seamless for guests.

Dietary Requirements & Inclusivity

A professional grazing table always considers:

• Vegetarian and vegan guests

• Gluten-free options

• Clear allergen labelling

• Separate areas for specific requirements

  
  

This reassures guests and reflects positively on the host company.

Why Grazing Tables Work So Well in Corporate Settings

Grazing tables encourage:

• Natural conversation

• Casual networking

• A relaxed pace

• Guest choice and autonomy

  
  

They remove the formality of sit-down meals while still feeling considered and premium.

5. Bowl Food & Fork-Friendly Menus

Bowl food and fork-friendly menus are designed for events where guests are standing, networking, or moving between conversations, but still want food that feels substantial and well thought out.

This style bridges the gap between formal sit-down dining and informal finger food, offering proper meals in a format that’s easy to eat without being tied to a table.

What Is Bowl Food?

Bowl food consists of small, individual portions served in bowls, designed to be eaten neatly with a fork or spoon. Each bowl is a complete dish rather than a collection of nibbles, making it more filling than finger food while remaining easy to manage.

Guests are usually served multiple bowls over the course of the event, allowing variety without overwhelming them.

What Does “Fork-Friendly” Mean?

Fork-friendly menus focus on dishes that:

• Are easy to eat while standing

• Don’t require cutting with a knife

• Are tidy and contained

• Can be eaten one-handed if needed

  
  

This makes them ideal for professional settings where guests may be holding a drink, brochure, or business card.

Why Companies Choose Bowl Food

Bowl food is popular because it:

• Feels polished and premium

• Allows guests to network freely

• Offers proper, satisfying portions

• Works well in indoor venues

• Reduces mess and waste

  
  

It delivers the comfort of a meal without the formality of sit-down service.

Typical Bowl Food Menu Options

BBQ & Savoury Bowls

• Pulled pork with slaw and seasoned potatoes

• Slow-cooked brisket with mac & cheese

• BBQ chicken with grains or rice

• Smoked sausage with mash or beans

  
  

Lighter & Fresh Options

• Chicken or halloumi grain bowls

• Roasted vegetable and quinoa bowls

• Seasonal salad bowls with protein

  
  

Vegetarian & Vegan Bowls

• Spiced chickpea and vegetable bowls

• Plant-based BBQ protein with slaw

• Lentil or bean-based savoury bowls

Bowl food menus are usually built around bold flavours and comforting combinations.

How Bowl Food Is Served

Bowl food service is carefully timed and coordinated:

• Bowls are served in waves

• Staff circulate to serve guests directly

• Empty bowls are cleared discreetly

• Service is smooth and unobtrusive

  
  

This keeps the event flowing without interruptions.

Ideal Events for Bowl Food Catering

Bowl food is perfect for:

• Networking events

• Corporate receptions

• Award evenings

• Product launches

• Indoor corporate functions

  
  

It’s especially useful where seating is limited but expectations are high.

Portion Planning & Satisfaction

Bowl food is all about balance:

• Bowls are filling without being heavy

• Multiple courses allow variety

• Guests don’t feel rushed or restricted

  
  

This approach keeps guests satisfied while maintaining a relaxed pace.

Bowl food and fork-friendly menus offer a smart, flexible solution for corporate catering. They combine quality, practicality, and presentation, making them perfect for events where professionalism matters but formality doesn’t.

It’s catering that supports conversation, not interrupts it.

6. Sit-Down Corporate Dining with Sharing Boards

A relaxed, premium approach to formal corporate dining

Sharing board dining offers a modern alternative to traditional plated corporate meals. Guests are seated at tables, but instead of individual plates being served course by course, beautifully presented boards are placed at the centre of the table for guests to share.

This style combines the structure of a sit-down meal with the warmth and interaction of communal dining.

What Are Sharing Boards?

Sharing boards are large platters or boards loaded with carefully curated food, designed to be shared between guests at the table. They typically include a main protein or selection of proteins, paired with sides and accompaniments.

Unlike buffets or finger food, sharing boards:

• Are served directly to the table

• Encourage interaction and conversation

• Feel generous and intentional

• Maintain a premium, hosted experience

  
  

Why Companies Choose Sharing Board Dining

Sharing boards are popular for corporate events because they:

• Feel sociable and inclusive

• Create a relaxed dining atmosphere

• Reduce the formality of plated service

• Encourage conversation between guests

• Still feel polished and professional

  
  

They’re ideal for events where relationship-building is just as important as the meal itself.

How the Service Works

Sharing board service is smooth and coordinated:

• Guests are seated at pre-set tables

• Boards are delivered simultaneously

• Staff explain the boards briefly

• Tables are checked and replenished as needed

• Plates are cleared efficiently

  
  

This keeps the experience structured but relaxed.

Ideal Events for Sharing Board Dining

Sharing boards are particularly suited to:

• Client dinners

• Leadership or executive events

• Corporate celebrations

• Awards evenings

• Formal team meals

  
  

They work well where you want to create a sense of occasion without rigid formality.

Portion Control & Guest Satisfaction

Sharing boards are designed to:

• Feel abundant without waste

• Offer enough variety for different tastes

• Keep guests satisfied and comfortable

  
  

Portions are carefully planned so everyone at the table is catered for equally.

Dietary Requirements & Inclusivity

Professional sharing board catering always includes:

• Separate vegetarian and vegan boards

• Gluten-free options

• Clear allergen management

• Advance menu planning for dietary needs

  
  

This ensures all guests feel included and confident in the food being served.

Sharing Boards vs Plated Dining

Sharing Boards

• Sociable and interactive

• Less formal

• Encourages conversation

• Feels modern and generous

  
  

Plated Dining

• Highly structured

• Formal service

• Limited interaction

  
  

For many corporate events, sharing boards strike the perfect balance.

Why Sharing Boards Work So Well in Corporate Settings

Sharing food creates connection. It naturally encourages conversation, collaboration, and a sense of togetherness — all qualities businesses want to foster during important events.

It sends a subtle message: “This is professional, but you’re welcome to relax.”

7. All-Day Corporate Catering: Fuel, Not Just Food

Fuelling focus, energy and productivity from start to finish

All-day corporate catering is designed for events that run beyond a single meal — conferences, training days, strategy sessions, and large corporate gatherings where people need steady energy throughout the day.

Rather than one big food service, all-day catering delivers well-timed food at key points, keeping guests comfortable, focused, and engaged from morning to late afternoon.

What Is All-Day Corporate Catering?

All-day corporate catering provides multiple food services across the event timeline, carefully planned to match energy levels and schedules. Food is served in stages, allowing guests to refuel without feeling heavy or distracted.

Typical all-day catering includes:

• Morning refreshments

• Mid-morning snacks

• Lunch service

• Afternoon pick-me-ups

  
  

Each stage has a clear purpose.

Why Companies Choose All-Day Catering

All-day catering is chosen because it:

• Maintains energy and concentration

• Reduces mid-afternoon fatigue

• Supports productivity and morale

• Shows genuine care for guests and staff

• Keeps events running smoothly

  
  

Well-fed teams are more engaged — it’s that simple.

Morning Catering: Starting the Day Right

The goal in the morning is to wake people up gently without overwhelming them.

Typical options include:

• Fresh pastries or breakfast rolls

• Fruit platters

• Yoghurts or granola pots

• Tea, coffee and juices

  
  

Morning food should be light, accessible, and easy to eat alongside registration or introductions.

Mid-Morning Breaks: Maintaining Focus

Mid-morning snacks prevent energy dips and keep attention levels high.

Popular options include:

• Sweet or savoury baked items

• Fruit or snack bars

• Light finger food

• Hot drinks top-ups

  
  

This is a short refuel, not a full meal.

Lunch Service: The Main Event

Lunch is the most substantial part of all-day catering and should be:

• Satisfying but not heavy

• Efficient to serve

• Suitable for varied dietary needs

  
  

Lunch formats often include:

• BBQ buffet or street food

• Finger buffets

• Bowl food

• Light sit-down meals

  
  

The aim is to refuel without slowing the afternoon down.

Afternoon Catering: Beating the Energy Slump

Afternoon food is all about keeping people alert.

Typical options include:

• Cakes or traybakes

• Savoury snacks

• Fruit and healthy options

• Hot drinks refresh

  
  

Timing here is crucial — too early and it’s wasted, too late and attention has already dropped.

Service Styles for All-Day Catering

All-day catering can be delivered through:

• Static refreshment stations

• Timed buffet services

• Staff-served items

• Mixed service styles throughout the day

  
  

The best setups feel seamless and unobtrusive.

Dietary Requirements & Inclusivity

Professional all-day catering always accounts for:

• Vegetarian and vegan diets

• Gluten-free options

• Allergen labelling

• Consistent inclusivity at every stage

  
  

Guests should never feel excluded at any point in the day.

Planning & Logistics

All-day catering requires careful coordination:

• Timed service aligned with agendas

• Space planning for refreshment areas

• Regular restocking and clearing

• Smooth transitions between sessions

  
  

When managed professionally, food supports the event rather than interrupting it.

Why All-Day Catering Works So Well

All-day catering sends a clear message: “We value your time and comfort.”

It helps:

• Improve focus

• Encourage positive engagement

• Reduce early departures

• Create a better overall event experience

  
  

Final Thoughts: Corporate Catering Should Never Be an Afterthought

Great corporate catering does more than feed people—it:

• Sets the tone of the event

• Encourages conversation

• Improves morale

• Leaves a lasting impression

  
  

Whether it’s a laid-back BBQ, a stylish grazing table, or a modern buffet done right, the best corporate catering reflects the company’s personality and makes guests feel genuinely looked after.

Because when the food is good, the mood is better—and when the mood is better, business tends to follow.

And honestly… life’s too short for bad sandwiches.

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