It’s time for event planners to look beyond the traditional catering menu if they want to impress their clients in 2025. Your events must also evolve to keep up with the fast-paced food and beverage industry. This year’s trends will engage and excite attendees in a way they have never experienced before. What’s hot, and how can you incorporate it into your event?
1. Innovative plant-based menus with a gourmet twist
Plant-based meals are not just for vegans any more. In 2025, the focus will be on plant-forward food, with a strong emphasis on gourmet tastes, global influence, and gut-friendly foods. You can expect to see creative, plant-based dishes such as jackfruit tacos with birria, miso-glazed roasted eggplants, and ricotta-based oat gnocchi on event menus.
Pro tip: Work with NYC caterers, who are experts in fine dining, to create a plant-based menu. Even meat eaters will love it.
2. Enjoy a feast for all the senses with Interactive Dining
Why serve food if guests can participate in the experience? Immersive and interactive dining is a new trend that combines storytelling with food. Build-your-own-ramen-bars, cocktail mixology at the table, and AI-assisted meal suggestions are all examples of this trend.
Event Inspiration: Create live cooking stations where chefs can prepare dishes at the moment. Or use AR technology to create virtual adventures that take guests on a journey through different cultures.
3. Mashup Revolution – Unexpected Flavor Combinations
Fusion Cuisine has returned in a big, bold way. Chefs are combining unexpected ingredients and cooking methods to create new taste experiences. Think of kimchi-topped tacos or Thai-Mexican Fusion Tacos.
Pro tip: Work with a chef who is on the cutting edge of trends to create a dish that will be exclusive to your event.
4. Make them Global, but Dumplings
Dumplings have moved from their traditional role to become the main event. These bite-sized delights come in many different versions from around the globe, including pierogi and empanadas. They can also be customized to your liking.
Event Idea: Host a “Dumpling Bar,” where guests can choose from a variety of fillings, from traditional pork with chive to truffle mushrooms or jackfruit curries.
5. Zero-proof cocktails and Sustainable Sips
Expect non-alcoholic craft beverages will steal the show with a growing number of health-conscious guests and curious, sober-curious visitors. Alcohol-free drinks don’t have to be bland. They can include functional drinks with adaptogens or nootropics.
Trends in Drinking to Watch:
Spiced fruit leather garnishes are perfect for cocktails
2. Cold Brew Coffee Negronis
3. Herbal infusions with turmeric, lavender and hibiscus
6. Sustainability at the Forefront
Zero-waste, sustainability and event essentials will be the norm in 2025. To minimize waste, more planners are prioritizing local ingredients, compostable serveware, and food recovery programs.
Sustainable Swaps
Use edible plates and cups
2. Take-home meal kits made from leftovers
3. Repurpose your unused dishes by partnering with food donation programs
The Event Planner Expo 2020: Get inspired!
What is the best way to keep up with these trends? The event planner Expo 2025 will be held in New York City. The Metropolitan Pavilion is a place where top event professionals can meet food industry innovators, taste new menus, and improve their events.
