Good to Know B R I G H T I D E A S , N O TA B L E N E W S , C O O L T R E N D S MENU Everyone’s a foodie these days. And that means the success of a corporate or business event can very well come down to what’s on the table, or bar. A thoughtfully designed menu is about more than just feeding people, it’s about crafting a memorable and impactful experience. Sounds daunting? It’s not. But it takes time and, more importantly, a collaborative partnership with open communication between planner and caterer. We asked some experts about their recipes for meal-planning success. BE STRATEGIC “There are a lot of things that are going to happen at the event, but one thing people will definitely remember, especially if it’s really good or not good, is the food,” says Sebastien Centner, whose 30-year-old Toronto-based company, Eatertainment, executes 1,800 events a year. Strategic menu planning should work in lockstep with the event’s objectives, guest preferences and desired ambiance. Consider the following essential elements: IGNITE YOUR... “ Choice: Menus must cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs, which might include vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, kosher and allergy- conscious options. Centner notes that up to 50% of his menus are vegan, with options for gluten- free and other highly specific needs. Seasonal and local: Especially for destination events, guests expect seasonal dishes that celebrate local ingredients, says Merina Chandra, special events director at the Fairmont Pacific Rim hotel in Vancouver. “Being on the West Coast, we see so much beautiful shellfish and wild salmon so we can play off of those features that you don’t get anywhere else in the world.” Creativity: Reflecting food trends and offering creative presentations is essential. “Twenty years ago you could get away with spring rolls, chicken skewers with peanut sauce and bruschetta,” Centner says. Not anymore. “I remember one of the first items I came up with—a smoked salmon lollipop—and people lost their mind,” he says. There are a lot of things that are going to happen at the event, but one thing people will definitely remember, especially if it’s really good or not good, is the food,” Strategies to elevate your culinary game by Dick Snyder → PLANNING Summer 2025 | Ignitemag.ca | 11
