If you have a special event coming up, catering service will allow you to serve the perfect menu for your guests. However, not every attendee will have the same taste or dietary restrictions. Here are five tips to ensure everyone has something to enjoy.

How to Design a Catering Menu for Everyone’s Taste

1. Avoid Allergens & Intolerances

Before ordering catering service, find out if there are any food allergies, intolerances, or sensitivities among your guests. If you can avoid major allergens like shellfish, nuts, dairy, and gluten, it will make attendees feel safer, especially if allergies are severe.

2. Aim for Variety

Variety guarantees every guest will find something they like. For entrees, have a meat, poultry, and vegetarian choice, such as roast pork, garlic chicken, or vegetable lumpia. For sides, include a mix of vegetables, salads, grains such as fried rice, and even one indulgent comfort food like fried chicken.

As for dessert, make sure you have a decadent choice such as bread pudding alongside something healthier like fruit. If there are children on the guest list, include a few kid-friendly options like macaroni or fries.

3. Try a Signature Dish

Some catering services have signature dishes or specialties, which are sometimes based on their location and local cuisine. Include something unique from their menu, like a fresh catch of the day, to offer something new.

4. Accommodate Culture

Consider the culture of your guests, whether that is ethnicity, religion, or both. Include options integral to their diets, especially if there are restrictions. For example, kalua pork is a fixture of traditional Hawaiian cooking, while adobo will appeal to Filipino guests. You may also decide to serve a variety of cultural dishes to give your menu an exciting boost.

5. Consider Style

Besides what is on the menu, how it will be delivered and enjoyed is also important. For professional or formal events, opt for items that can be eaten without too much mess. For example, teri meatballs are bite-sized and easy to serve.

Also, take into account the time of day and if breakfast, lunch, or dinner is more appropriate. For breakfast, choose omelets or pancakes. Try medium plates and a variety of smaller bites like fried shrimp for lunch, and go bigger with entrees like prime rib or beef brisket for dinner.

For top-notch catering services in Waipahu, try Da Ultimate Grindz Hawaii. The family-owned and -operated restaurant offers a delectable menu of Filipino and American favorites, from garlic shrimp to barbecue chicken, for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and event catering. Call (808) 888-3872 to place an order, or view their menu on their website.