There are many things to consider when planning a New York City corporate event, and one of the most important is deciding on what type of food and drink to serve. Make your food stand out as much as your business does, by serving refreshments that are both delicious and visually appealing. We’ve researched some of the latest food trends for corporate parties, to help your event be fresh, modern and extremely tasty!

1. Go Meatless

   It’s not just for vegans anymore. Meatless dishes are becoming increasingly popular at parties, with diners concerned about the health and environmental costs of eating meat. Many companies are offering alternatives to beef and chicken dishes, and plenty of event catering companies focus on vegetarian-only menus. The little-known jackfruit has also become a trendy alternative, as it’s hearty enough to be replace meat in dishes like or tacos or pulled “pork”.

2. Orange is the New Alcohol

   Cocktails are getting brighter as orange drinks have become the new trend. The Aperol Spritz (made of orange Aperol, prosecco and soda water) might be the hottest drink of 2019, and is a refreshing choice to serve at any event. Wine isn’t just white, red, or rosé anymore, either. Orange wines offer a twist on the classic drink. (Note that there are no actual oranges in orange wine - the wine gets its color from a unique method of fermenting grapes with the skins.)

3. Give the Planet Some Love

   Global warming is a hot issue (literally), and it’s also one that affects food production. Around the world, more than 2,000 tons of food are wasted every minute. Many caterers and event companies are going green by using only local produce, and creating dishes that use every part of a plant, like cauliflower leaves or citrus rinds. You can also show your guests that you care about the earth by serving dishes with recyclable materials such as paper straws, bamboo bowls, and wooden forks.

4. Around the World Appetizers

   The world is getting smaller all the time, and nearly every business has international clients. Show your guests you’re globally minded by serving food from another region of the world. BBC Foods has highlighted Sri Lankan and Burmese cuisines as two of the trendiest world cuisines right now. Consider serving spicy Sri Lankan curries and tasty Burmese banana fritters at your event, or serve food in a “street stall” atmosphere like those found in many cities of the world. 

5. Water Gets an Upgrade

   Networking is thirsty work, so it’s important to keep party guests hydrated. Water may seem like the obvious choice, but there are more kinds of water available in 2019 than ever before. Coconut water has been popular for a while now, but now there’s also aloe vera water, maple water and even cactus-infused water to choose from. Create a refreshing non-alcoholic cocktail with combination of fruit and one of these new “flavors” of water.

6. It’s All in the Presentation

   Party food isn’t just about what you serve, but how you serve it. Be sure that the food allows for mingling amongst attendees, by serving it in a way that’s guaranteed to make people talk. Food walls are fun new way to put a twist on presentation. Food is hung on a display wall for guests to pick from, creating a delicious conversation piece. Grazing tables have also been increasing popular recently, featuring a spread of meats, vegetable, cheese and breads. The simplicity of the grazing table allows partygoers to take only what they want, while networking with their fellow guests at the same time.

Follow these tips for the latest trends in party food, and your guests are guaranteed to be impressed. Tribeca Rooftop and Tribeca 360°’s event staff in NY are available to discuss food and beverage options that will create a delicious and memorable evening for your company.