What to Include in Your Corporate Catering Menu

Planning corporate catering in NYC doesn’t have to be stressful. The right catering menu ensures your event is memorable, satisfying, and reflects your company’s style. At BLACKBARN, we specialize in catering that balances flavor, presentation, and variety, so every guest leaves impressed.

1. Appetizers That Set the Tone

Start with easy-to-enjoy appetizers that make a statement:

Passed hors d’oeuvres are often the first impression at a corporate event, so variety and balance matter. A strong selection usually blends familiar favorites with a few elevated bites.

• Curated charcuterie and cheese selections with seasonal accompaniments

• Vegetable-forward bites like crudités with house-made dips or soup shooters

• Passed hors d’oeuvres such as meatballs, arancini, sliders, or skewers

Pro tip: A balanced mix of meat, seafood, and vegetarian options ensures every guest feels considered.

2. Entrees That Cater to All Preferences

A strong corporate catering menu offers variety without overwhelming guests.

Offer a mix of proteins and plant-based options:

• Protein-driven dishes like chicken, beef, or responsibly sourced seafood

• Vegetarian and plant-forward options, including pastas, grains, or seasonal vegetables

• At least one vegan or gluten-free selection to accommodate dietary needs

This flexibility allows your menu to appeal to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

3. Sides That Complement the Meal

Sides enhance the main dishes and bring cohesion to the menu:

• Seasonal salads with fresh, vibrant ingredients

• Roasted or sautéed vegetables prepared simply and well

• Grains, polenta, or artisan breads that complement the main dishes

4. Beverages to suit the Occasion

Beverage selections should match the tone of your event:

• Coffee, tea, and sparkling water for daytime meetings

• Wine, beer, or craft cocktails for evening or celebratory events

• Non-alcoholic options that feel intentional and elevated

5. Desserts That Leave a Lasting Impression

Dessert stations give guests the freedom to indulge at their own pace and help bring the event to a natural close.

A well-rounded dessert selection adds a finishing touch:

• Mini pastries, tarts, or classic desserts

• Seasonal selections that reflect the time of year for a lighter close

• A mix of familiar favorites and chef-driven selections

6. Special Considerations

Thoughtful planning makes all the difference when it comes to corporate catering.

• Clearly label allergens and dietary accommodations so guests can navigate the menu with ease.

• Adjust portion sizes based on the length, timing, and style of your event to keep service seamless.

• Choose a service style that supports flow and interaction. Buffets and interactive stations encourage movement and conversation, while plated, family-style, or passed service create a more structured experience.

The right approach allows guests to customize their experience while keeping service efficient and well-paced.

Ready to Plan Your next corporate event?

A thoughtful corporate catering menu can elevate your event and leave a lasting impression on your team, clients, or partners. BLACKBARN’s experienced culinary team in Manhattan brings together locally sourced ingredients, refined presentation, and seamless service to deliver memorable corporate events of every size.

Contact BLACKBARN Catering today to start designing your catering menu.

• What should I include in a corporate catering menu?

  A well-rounded corporate catering menu should include a mix of passed hors d’oeuvres, entrées, sides, beverages, and desserts. Offering a balance of proteins, plant-forward dishes, and flexible service styles helps ensure your corporate event is both satisfying and seamless for all guests.

• Can BLACKBARN accommodate dietary restrictions?

  Yes! BLACKBARN offers vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergen-conscious options across our catering menus. If you don’t see exactly what you’re looking for, our culinary team is happy to recommend or customize menu items to meet your event’s needs.

• What types of events does BLACKBARN cater?

  BLACKBARN caters a wide range of events in NYC, from corporate meetings and networking receptions to weddings, social celebrations, private dinners, and milestone events. Our team works closely with each client to tailor menus and service styles to match the size, tone, and purpose of each occasion.

• How do I book catering with BLACKBARN in Manhattan?

  To book catering for your next event, simply fill out our catering inquiry form, and a member of our team will help design a customized menu for your event. You can also email catering@blackbarnrestaurant.com with questions, timelines, or special requests.