An essential aspect of planning an event is ensuring your guests are well fed. Event catering is a simple and cost-effective way of providing a delicious, ready-made meal to all attendees. With so many options available, many event planners have trouble putting together a menu that everyone will enjoy. The following guide outlines the proper steps to creating a crowd-pleasing catering menu.

How to Plan a Menu for Your Catering Event

1. Consider the Theme

Before making any decisions, think about the details surrounding your event. What season will it be? Your guests may appreciate savory barbecue and refreshing finger foods during the summer and warm, hearty dishes in the winter. Does your event have a theme? Consider tying the caterer’s available dishes into the overall theme of the occasion.

2. Order More Than You Need

When it comes to feeding a group, it’s always better to have too much food than not enough. Hungry attendees will not be pleased with a lack of food if they were expecting a meal. If possible, give the caterer an accurate headcount of the guests you’re expecting. In the absence of RSVPs, order a little more than you think you’ll need.

3. Give Guests Options

To please as many guests as possible, provide a diverse selection of dishes. Choose at least two different entrees, a variety of sides, appetizers, and at least two types of dessert. Always offer healthy options and try to vary the flavors of the plates you choose.

4. Anticipate Dietary Restrictions

There are many dietary restrictions to keep in mind when ordering event catering. If applicable, ask guests to share their allergies and preferences on the invitations you send. If you don’t have your guests’ specifications, research the most common dietary restrictions. Provide options for those with food allergies and intolerances, religious requirements, and vegetarian diets.

5. Think Outside the Box

As an event planner, this is your chance to get creative. Look for catering companies that offer unique packages that will surprise and delight guests. Make your event extra special with options like local favorites, hors d’oeuvres, fajita bars, and internationally-themed packages. 

If you need a professional event catering service in the Greater Cincinnati Tri-State area, look no further than Hammann’s Catering, Butcher Shop & Deli. Serving residents and businesses across Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana, this caterer will help you elevate your event with a wide selection of mouthwatering entrees, hors d’oeuvres, buffets, and sandwich tables. Each dish is prepared with high-quality ingredients and delivered fresh. To learn more about their catering services, call (513) 858-3237. Browse through their menus online.