If 2024 showed us that food and drink remain an ever-important part of events, then 2025 is looking to reinforce this even further.
Guests’ habits and wants when it comes to dining and catering at events is constantly evolving. Let’s explore some of the top dining trends we expect to see in 2025…
Unique experiences
If there’s one thing attendees are looking for more than ever when it comes to dining at an event, it’s something different.
Recent research from foodservice provider BidFood found that more than 55% of consumers are interested in expanding their palates and exploring new flavours when choosing to eat out. This means providing a dining experience beyond the expected with a menu that is sure to both surprise and delight.
If having something completely new isn’t possible, look for ways in which to subvert expectations – could you take a classic dish and turn it on its head, or perhaps take inspiration from other cultures? Many of our meat dishes here at Regent’s follow this philosophy – while we do offer traditional chicken options, we also offer choices such as our Nigerian Suya BBQ corn fed chicken – the perfect choice for those looking for something a bit different.
And for those looking for unique experiences but on a smaller scale, starters are an excellent way to allow people to experiment. From our ‘pumpkin mousse’ kabocha pumpkin espuma to our pork cheek in an apricot gastrique, there are plenty of ways to allow guests to try something new!
Outdoor dining
More and more people are looking to dine out – literally. While indoor private dining will always have its place, outdoor events, and in turn, outdoor dining is becoming an increasingly popular option when it comes to events.
Compared to indoors, outdoor dining tends to be more of a relaxed and laid-back affair, and the food on offer provides the perfect excuse to mingle and strike up conversation with other guests.
The food on offer needs to reflect this, as outdoor dining can be very different from what you may expect from traditional indoor catering at an event. Think food that’s easy to consume – no one wants to walk around balancing their plate and cutlery while also trying to eat!
While there are a few different options, tapas and canapés remain an ever-popular choice for attendees when it comes to finger food. Just because it’s popular doesn’t mean you can’t put your own spin on it though. From our luxury crudités with artisan sauces to Xinjiang-style roast lamb & herb spring rolls, our catering options provide plenty of tasty surprises when it comes to tapas and canapés.
Street food is also a popular option when it comes to outdoor dining. Not only is this sort of food perfect for people looking to move around and network while still enjoying great food, but it also provides people the opportunity to try many different types of foods too, instead of just one or two options from a menu.
Superfoods
When it comes to events such as conferences or team building days, it’s important to ensure people have what they need to remain focused and engaged, and the food and drink on offer is a great way to help achieve these.
While traditionally attendees would reach for the nearest cup of coffee, people are looking more and more for alternatives that are not just healthy but also going to help them perform the best for the day ahead.
That’s why certain superfoods are growing ever more in demand as an option – foods that are nutrient-rich and known to be especially beneficial for health and well-being. Berries, oats, avocados, dark chocolate – all examples of foods well known for health benefits and ability to help keep you focused and get those creative juices flowing.
How you incorporate these superfoods into your dining options however can be a challenge, although the simplest way is to create a smoothie incorporating some of these Superfoods as a drinks option for attendees, making the swap out from the traditional coffee even easier. Our super mint green smoothies are a popular choice at our events, giving people the energy they need without the crash afterwards.
Other alternatives include incorporating superfoods into bite size alternatives in the form of energy balls. Small in size but packing a punch, they allow an easy and tasty way to provide some superfoods to guests. Their variety also makes them an exciting choice – we currently opt for matcha, raspberry and coconut options ourselves!
Whatever the occasion, make it an unforgettable one with wellness in mind for your next event at Regent’s. For more information, explore our range of events or get in contact with a member of the team today to discuss your needs.
