F&B Trends for Events in 2025: What’s Hot
We are always looking for new and innovative ways to enhance the food and beverage experiences at the events we plan. Since last year, we have noticed a few key trends that are making waves in the world of event catering. From sustainable plant-based options to interactive food stations, here is a look at the top three food and beverage trends for events and how we can incorporate them into corporate and social gatherings.
1. Plant-Based and Alternative Proteins: The Future of Sustainable Dining
As sustainability becomes a more prominent concern for event planners and guests alike, plant-based and alternative protein dishes are increasingly in demand. Whether you’re planning a corporate event, a wedding, or a social gathering, plant-based options are not just a trend – they are here to stay. In fact, plant-based meals are now considered a mainstream choice for events, with many attendees seeking out options that align with their values around health and the environment.
For corporate events in Geneva, we can offer vegan canapés like roasted vegetable tartlets, avocado and quinoa wraps, or chickpea sliders as a delicious, sustainable snack during networking sessions. At weddings, a plant-based grazing table could feature seasonal vegetables, fruit, and artisan plant-based cheeses, offering guests a beautiful and environmentally friendly option. Alternative proteins like plant-based meats (e.g., Beyond Meat, Impossible Foods) can also replace traditional proteins in dishes like burgers or tacos, allowing guests to enjoy familiar flavors with a modern twist.
Why It’s Trending: more people are becoming aware of the environmental and health benefits of plant-based eating. From reducing the carbon footprint to supporting local, organic farms, plant-based dishes are a great way to cater to diverse dietary needs while also being mindful of our planet. Additionally, with a growing interest in vegan and flexitarian diets, it is essential to offer options that make everyone feel included.
2. Interactive Food Stations: Engaging Guests with Personalized Experiences
Gone are the days of the static buffet line. The new trend is interactive food stations that create engaging, personalized dining experiences for guests. Whether it is a live cooking station, a sushi rolling bar, or a build-your-own taco station (yummy yummy!), these interactive setups not only make the food a focal point of the event but also foster a sense of connection among attendees.
Imagine a corporate dinner where guests can walk up to a chef grilling skewers of fresh local meats and vegetables, or perhaps a social event where guests can customize their own gourmet tacos with a variety of toppings. For weddings, a live pasta station could feature chefs preparing fresh pasta right in front of your guests, allowing them to choose their sauce and toppings. Interactive stations also work well for morning events like conferences, where a fresh smoothie or juice bar can energize attendees.
Why It’s Trending: people want to feel like they are part of the experience, not just spectators. Interactive food stations provide the opportunity to engage in a fun and creative way, making the meal itself an experience. These stations also cater to diverse dietary preferences and give guests the ability to choose what they want, ensuring satisfaction across the board. Plus, it is a fantastic way to showcase local produce and craftsmanship, making the food at your event feel even more special.
3. Functional Foods and Beverages: A Focus on Wellness
As the wellness movement continues to grow, more people are seeking foods and beverages that provide health benefits. This year, we will see more functional foods – such as those containing probiotics, adaptogens, and functional mushrooms – becoming popular choices at events. These items not only taste great but are also designed to enhance well-being.
A way to incorporate them during corporate wellness events or health-conscious social gatherings, we could offer smoothies made with ingredients like spirulina, chia seeds, or matcha, which have energy-boosting properties. A well-being-focused event could include snacks like avocado toast with hemp seeds or coconut-based energy bites. At social events, why not add a mocktail bar featuring beverages infused with adaptogens like ashwagandha or calming lavender? Functional beverages, such as kombucha or sparkling waters infused with vitamins and electrolytes, are also excellent options for keeping guests refreshed while offering health benefits.
Why It’s Trending: with an increasing emphasis on holistic health, people are looking for foods and drinks that not only nourish their bodies but also provide mental and emotional benefits. Functional foods are perfect for events focused on wellness, sustainability, or mindfulness. We love offering these types of food shows to our corporate clients based in Geneva, keeping up with trends that prioritize the health and wellness of their guests.
The food and beverage trends for events in 2025 are all about creating experiences that are sustainable, engaging, and health-focused. At Brightside, we are excited about these trends and are eager to bring them to life in corporate and social events here in Geneva. Whether you are planning a corporate seminar, a wedding, or a social gathering, we are here to help make your event as delicious and innovative as possible.
So, let’s raise a glass (or a kombucha) to the future of event dining – it’s going to be delicious!