Office Holiday Party Catering Without the Last-Minute Scramble

Book Early, Because December Fills Up

Holiday season is the busiest time of year for offices, caterers, and event venues alike. The teams that get the food they want are the ones that book early and confirm details in writing. Pick a date and time, then ask us to hold a slot for the order. For large orders we ask for at least 24 to 48 hours notice, but in December it helps to give yourself several weeks. If your party is on a Friday afternoon, book even earlier, because many offices choose that same window.

Also check whether the party is during work hours or after. A lunchtime party needs food that can be eaten in a short window, while an evening party can run longer and include a bar and a more relaxed buffet. Your choice affects both the menu and how long the food should stay out.

Estimate Headcount Across Teams

Holiday parties often draw more people than the official roster. Spouses, partners, and team members from other floors may attend, and some staff may only stop by for a short time. Ask each manager to confirm how many people from their team plan to come, and add a note about whether family members are welcome. Keep the RSVP list simple, and close it at least a few days before the order is due so you are not adjusting numbers at the last minute.

A common starting point for a buffet is to plan a little extra food for a party that is open all afternoon, since people come and go in waves. Treat this as a rule of thumb, not a promise, and adjust based on how long the party runs and whether there will be other food available.

A Menu That Mixes Well at a Party

Office parties need food that people can eat while standing and talking. Shareable platters and bowls work well because they let people take a little of several things. Our rice bowls over Lebanese rice, pita wraps, hummus, and baba ganoush are easy to share. Our chicken shawarma is hand-stacked and halal per our menu, which helps when the team includes people who observe halal practices. Vegetarian and gluten-free guests can find hummus, falafel, and vegetables, and our gluten-free vegan falafel is made from scratch from soaked raw chickpeas.

• Label each dish with its main ingredient and its dietary status.
• Mark pita as containing gluten, and keep a bowl option near it.
• Put serving utensils at every dish so people do not share spoons.
• Ask whether the office has a kitchen or break room that can hold trays.

If you want something sweet at the end of the party, baklava is a good option for a holiday table.

Logistics, Setup, and Cleanup

Confirm who will receive the food and where it should be placed. Many offices have a front desk or a conference room that works well as a buffet space. Ask the office manager about access, especially if the building needs a badge or a loading dock. Plan for setup about fifteen minutes before the party starts, and keep napkins, plates, and cups in one place so the line moves. If the party is catered by a full-service team with servers, contact us to discuss the details. You can review our catering options and the full menu before you finalize your order. Call (412) 251-1279 with your date, time, and headcount, and we can help you plan a party that runs smoothly.