Office Lunch Catering: 20 ideas to keep your team happy, energized, and productive

Some good lunch ideas for your team at the office could include barbecues, sushi, tacos, Indian food, hamburgers and also a classic pizza. Specific dates may also call for foods more related to specific cultures. Check out more ideas!

Office lunch catering is no longer just about convenience. It’s about offering a delightful and diverse dining experience that energizes your team, supports inclusivity, and enhances productivity. Here are 20 top-tier catering options to help you create exceptional office lunches. If you want to get the widest variety for your employees, we urge you to send this article to your office manager to get us into your office!

1. BBQ – A hearty crowd pleaser

Barbecue is a quintessential comfort food that satisfies a wide range of tastes. Whether it's Texas-style smoked brisket, Memphis dry-rubbed ribs, or Carolina pulled pork with tangy vinegar sauce, there's something for every meat lover. The slow-cooking process infuses the meat with deep, smoky flavors, ensuring that each bite is tender and flavorful. Pair your proteins with classic sides like cornbread, mac and cheese, coleslaw, and baked beans to create a full Southern experience. 

For those looking to mix things up, offer grilled chicken, turkey, or even BBQ tofu for vegetarian options. You can also provide a variety of sauces—ranging from sweet and tangy to hot and spicy—to let employees personalize their meal. 

• Texas-style brisket: Tender, slow-cooked beef brisket, seasoned with a dry rub and smoked for hours to achieve deep, smoky flavors.
• Carolina pulled pork: Juicy pork shoulder shredded after slow cooking, usually served with a tangy vinegar-based sauce.
• Memphis dry-rubbed ribs: Pork ribs seasoned with a dry rub of spices, slow-cooked for tenderness, and served without sauce.
• BBQ chicken: Grilled or smoked chicken, marinated and slathered in a rich, sweet, and tangy barbecue sauce.
• Smoked sausages: Hearty sausages, slow-smoked to perfection, served alongside classic BBQ sides like coleslaw and baked beans.

Barbecue catering is not just a lunch, it’s an event, perfect for boosting morale on special occasions or casual Fridays. We recommend the top 33 best BBQ restaurants in the US for the most curious!

2. Sushi – Light, fresh, and customizable

Sushi is an excellent choice for those who want a healthy, light lunch option without compromising on flavor. Sushi caters to a wide array of dietary preferences, with options like fresh sashimi, nigiri, and maki rolls. You can offer a variety of fillings, from traditional raw fish like tuna and salmon to cooked options like shrimp tempura, eel, or tofu. Include vegetarian rolls featuring avocado, cucumber, and pickled radish to ensure inclusivity.

• Nigiri (fish over rice): Slices of fresh fish placed on vinegared rice, often garnished with wasabi or soy sauce for extra flavor.
• Maki rolls (seaweed-wrapped): Rice, fish, and vegetables rolled in seaweed, cut into bite-sized pieces, perfect for dipping in soy sauce.
• Sashimi (sliced raw fish): Thin slices of raw fish or seafood, served without rice, usually accompanied by wasabi and soy sauce.
• California roll: A popular maki roll filled with crab, avocado, and cucumber, often topped with sesame seeds or tobiko.
• Tempura roll: A crunchy sushi roll with shrimp or vegetables fried in tempura batter, adding texture to traditional sushi.

The visual appeal of sushi, with its vibrant colors and delicate presentation, makes it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Additionally, sushi is easy to eat, making it perfect for quick lunch breaks or working lunches. Consider offering a DIY sushi station where employees can choose their ingredients, creating a fun, interactive catering experience

3. Italian classics – Comfort with a gourmet twist

Italian food has long been a staple in office catering, but there’s more to it than just pizza and pasta. Elevate your Italian lunch with gourmet options like handmade gnocchi, risotto, or baked lasagna. You can offer pizza with creative toppings such as prosciutto, arugula, and goat cheese for a sophisticated twist on a classic favorite. A selection of antipasti featuring olives, artichokes, and cured meats adds an authentic Italian touch to your spread.

For those seeking lighter options, consider a fresh Caprese salad made with ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, or a hearty Caesar salad topped with grilled chicken. The combination of carbs, proteins, and fresh vegetables makes Italian catering a versatile option that can satisfy even the most diverse team

• Margherita pizza: A classic pizza topped with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, representing the colors of the Italian flag.
• Lasagna: Layers of pasta, meat, cheese, and sauce baked to perfection, offering a hearty and comforting Italian dish.
• Gnocchi with tomato or pesto sauce: Soft potato dumplings served with rich tomato sauce or fresh basil pesto, a light yet satisfying meal.
• Risotto: Creamy Italian rice cooked slowly with broth, cheese, and sometimes mushrooms or seafood for a rich, comforting flavor.
• Caprese salad: A refreshing Italian salad made with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

4. Poke bowls – Hawaiian delights

Poke bowls offer a refreshing, healthy option with customizable ingredients that cater to various dietary preferences. Traditionally, poke features marinated raw fish—usually tuna or salmon—served over rice and mixed with vegetables like cucumber, edamame, and avocado. You can also add flavorful toppings like seaweed salad, sesame seeds, and spicy mayo to enhance the dish.

For those who prefer vegetarian or vegan meals, you can substitute fish with tofu, tempeh, or roasted vegetables. The beauty of poke bowls lies in their balance of textures and flavors, with each bite offering something fresh and satisfying. With a variety of proteins and toppings to choose from, poke bowls make for a nourishing and colorful office lunch that keeps your team energized and focused.

• Tuna poke: Diced raw tuna marinated in soy sauce and sesame oil, served over rice with fresh toppings like avocado and seaweed.
• Salmon poke: Fresh salmon cubes marinated in citrus or soy, paired with rice, veggies, and crunchy toppings like sesame seeds or crispy onions.
• Tofu poke: A vegetarian version featuring marinated tofu, served with rice, edamame, and other fresh toppings like cucumbers and carrots.

5. Mediterranean mezze – Light, healthy, and flavorful

Mediterranean cuisine is a proven favorite, thanks to its heart-healthy ingredients and rich, bold flavors. A mezze platter allows for a variety of small dishes, from hummus and tzatziki to falafel and tabbouleh. You can offer a range of grilled meats like lamb and chicken kebabs, alongside vegetarian staples such as stuffed grape leaves and roasted vegetables.

The beauty of a Mediterranean spread is its ability to cater to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. With ingredients like olive oil, fresh herbs, and spices, these dishes offer both nutritional benefits and bold flavors. A Mediterranean mezze is ideal for offices looking for light, yet satisfying meals that leave employees feeling energized rather than sluggish

• Hummus: A smooth chickpea dip blended with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, served with pita bread or vegetables.
• Falafel: Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas and herbs, crispy on the outside and tender inside, often served with tahini sauce.
• Grilled kebabs: Skewered and grilled meats like lamb or chicken, marinated in Mediterranean spices, served with vegetables and flatbread.

6. Tacos – Build-your-own fun

Tacos are a hit at any office lunch because of their flexibility and wide appeal. A taco bar allows employees to customize their meals, selecting from a variety of proteins such as seasoned beef, grilled chicken, carnitas, or even plant-based alternatives like jackfruit or tofu. Complement the proteins with a range of toppings, including guacamole, salsa, shredded cheese, and sour cream.

The taco experience is enhanced by the option to choose from soft flour tortillas, hard taco shells, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Tacos encourage interaction and creativity, making them a fun and engaging catering option that accommodates a variety of dietary needs

• Grilled chicken tacos: Tender grilled chicken served in soft tortillas with toppings like avocado, salsa, and lime for a fresh, zesty flavor.
• Carnitas tacos: Slow-cooked pork, shredded and served with fresh cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime in a soft tortilla.
• Vegetarian tacos: Tacos filled with roasted vegetables or plant-based protein, served with salsa and guacamole, offering a healthy and flavorful option.

Enjoy this top 100 of best Tacos in the US. You can also suggest to your office manager to bring Picnic to the office and start enjoying our amazing Mexican restaurants!

7. Indian cuisine – Bold flavors for every diet

Indian cuisine brings a wealth of spices and diverse flavors to the table, making it an exciting option for office lunches. Popular dishes like butter chicken, lamb curry, and paneer tikka masala offer rich, creamy sauces and bold flavors. Indian catering is particularly great for vegetarians, with dishes like dal (lentils), aloo gobi (potatoes and cauliflower), and chana masala (spiced chickpeas).

Pair these dishes with naan, basmati rice, and a selection of chutneys to enhance the flavors. For those who enjoy spicy food, you can offer dishes with a higher heat level, but also ensure there are milder options available to cater to everyone’s palate. Indian food is not only filling but also offers a variety of textures and tastes that will impress your team.

• Butter chicken: A rich and creamy tomato-based curry with tender chicken, flavored with garam masala and served with naan or rice.
• Paneer tikka masala: Grilled paneer cubes in a spiced tomato cream sauce, perfect for vegetarians craving a hearty Indian dish.
• Chana masala: Spicy chickpea curry cooked with onions, tomatoes, and fragrant spices, served with basmati rice or flatbread.

8. Korean bbq – Interactive and flavorful

Korean BBQ provides an interactive dining experience that’s perfect for office lunches. Traditionally, diners cook their own meats at the table, but for office settings, you can bring pre-grilled options like bulgogi (marinated beef), galbi (short ribs), and spicy pork. These meats are complemented by a range of side dishes, or banchan, such as kimchi, pickled vegetables, and rice.

Korean cuisine is known for its balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, making each bite exciting. For a complete meal, include bibimbap (rice bowls topped with a variety of vegetables, meat, and egg) or japchae (sweet potato noodles stir-fried with vegetables). Korean BBQ is a flavorful and memorable lunch that will have employees talking long after the meal is over

• Bulgogi: Thinly sliced marinated beef, grilled to perfection, served with rice, kimchi, and a variety of side dishes (banchan).
• Galbi (short ribs): Marinated and grilled beef short ribs, sweet and savory, often paired with lettuce wraps and ssamjang (spicy dipping sauce).
• Kimchi: Spicy fermented cabbage, a staple Korean side dish, known for its tangy, fiery flavor and health benefits.

9. Charcuterie and cheese boards – Elegant and easy

Charcuterie boards are not just visually stunning but also a great way to offer a variety of flavors and textures in a single meal. These boards typically feature a selection of cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and chorizo, paired with cheeses ranging from sharp cheddars to soft bries. Add fresh fruits, nuts, olives, and artisanal crackers for an extra touch of elegance.

You can also offer plant-based charcuterie options, such as vegan cheeses and plant-based cured meats, to ensure inclusivity. Charcuterie boards are perfect for office meetings or events where employees may want to snack while working, offering a sophisticated yet simple lunch option

• Prosciutto: Thinly sliced Italian dry-cured ham, often paired with cheese and fruits for a perfect salty-sweet balance.
• Brie: A soft, creamy cheese with a mild flavor, perfect for pairing with crackers or bread on a charcuterie board.
• Salami: Flavorful, cured sausage made from pork, seasoned with garlic and spices, offering a rich, savory taste.

10. Tapas – Small plates, big variety

Tapas are a delightful way to offer a variety of flavors in small portions, making them a hit for office lunches. This Spanish tradition includes dishes like patatas bravas (fried potatoes with spicy tomato sauce), gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), and chorizo a la sidra (chorizo cooked in cider). With such a wide selection, tapas allow employees to sample different dishes without committing to just one.

The variety of flavors, from the salty bite of olives to the smoky spice of paprika, keeps things interesting. Tapas encourage sharing, making them ideal for creating a communal, social lunch experience. Tapas are perfect for smaller office gatherings or as a special treat for employees.

• Patatas bravas: Crispy fried potatoes served with a spicy tomato sauce and aioli, a staple in Spanish tapas.
• Gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp): Shrimp cooked in sizzling garlic-infused olive oil, served hot with crusty bread for dipping.
• Chorizo: Spanish-style cured sausage with a smoky, paprika-rich flavor, often served sliced or grilled.

11. Vietnamese banh mi – a fusion of flavors

Banh mi sandwiches offer a unique and delightful fusion of French and Vietnamese culinary traditions. These sandwiches feature a light, crispy baguette filled with savory ingredients like grilled pork, chicken, or tofu, accompanied by pickled carrots, daikon, cilantro, and spicy jalapeños. What sets banh mi apart is its balance of textures and flavors—the crunch of the fresh vegetables paired with the soft, juicy meats and a burst of herbs and spicy mayonnaise create an incredibly satisfying bite.

Banh mi is also highly versatile, making it a perfect catering option for diverse office teams. You can offer various fillings, including vegetarian options like marinated tofu, to cater to different dietary preferences. For an added touch, include sides like spring rolls or Vietnamese iced coffee to make the meal feel more complete and culturally rich. Banh mi sandwiches are a refreshing and exciting lunch option that will stand out from the usual sandwich offerings​.

• Grilled pork banh mi: A crispy baguette filled with marinated grilled pork, pickled vegetables, fresh cilantro, and spicy mayo.
• Chicken banh mi: A lighter version of the classic, featuring grilled chicken with the same fresh toppings in a crunchy baguette.
• Tofu banh mi: A vegetarian option with marinated tofu, offering the same balance of flavors and textures as the traditional version.

12. Chinese – Rich and diverse

Chinese cuisine is known for its variety, richness in flavors, and ability to cater to different dietary needs. A Chinese lunch catering menu can include an array of dishes such as fried rice, lo mein, dumplings, and stir-fried vegetables. Kung Pao chicken, sweet and sour pork, and beef with broccoli are crowd favorites, but you can also offer lighter options like steamed fish or tofu with vegetables.

What makes Chinese food so appealing for office lunches is its balance of flavors—sweet, savory, salty, and spicy—along with its wide selection of vegetarian, gluten-free, and meat dishes. You can also provide appetizers like spring rolls, dim sum, and wontons, which make for fun, shareable starters. For dessert, consider offering traditional treats like sesame balls or fortune cookies to complete the meal​.

• Kung Pao chicken: Stir-fried chicken with peanuts, chili peppers, and a savory sauce, offering a spicy and satisfying dish.
• Fried rice: Rice stir-fried with eggs, vegetables, and choice of protein like shrimp, chicken, or pork, flavored with soy sauce.
• Dumplings: Dough wrappers filled with meat or vegetables, steamed or fried, and served with soy dipping sauce.

13. Pizza – A customizable classic

Pizza is a versatile, crowd-pleasing favorite, and it has evolved far beyond the basic cheese and pepperoni options. Today, pizza catering can include gourmet varieties like wood-fired pizzas with unique toppings such as goat cheese, arugula, and prosciutto. Offering a build-your-own pizza station allows your team to customize their pies with gluten-free crusts, vegan cheese, and a variety of meats and veggies to accommodate dietary preferences.

Pizza is perfect for any office gathering, whether casual or celebratory. Include a variety of crust types—thin, thick, or stuffed—and a selection of sauces, from traditional tomato to white garlic or pesto. Pair pizzas with fresh salads, such as Caesar or arugula, to round out the meal. For a unique twist, you can also offer calzones or strombolis for those looking for a heartier lunch option​.

• Margherita pizza: A simple yet classic pizza topped with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a perfect blend of flavors.
• Pepperoni pizza: The quintessential favorite, featuring mozzarella cheese and spicy pepperoni slices atop a tomato sauce base.
• Vegetarian pizza: Loaded with fresh vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions, providing a healthier yet flavorful alternative.

14. Smoothies and smoothie bowls – Energizing and nutritious

For offices looking for a lighter, healthier option, smoothies and smoothie bowls are the perfect choice. Smoothies can be packed with superfoods like acai, kale, spinach, chia seeds, and berries, providing a refreshing and energizing meal. You can also offer smoothie bowls, which are thicker than traditional smoothies and come topped with granola, fresh fruit, nuts, and seeds.

These nutritious options are perfect for employees who prefer something light but filling, especially during warmer months. With endless combinations of fruits, vegetables, and protein add-ins like Greek yogurt or almond butter, smoothies can be customized to fit any dietary restriction, including vegan and gluten-free. A smoothie bar is not only a healthy choice but also a fun, interactive catering experience​.

• Acai smoothie bowl: A thick, berry-based smoothie served in a bowl, topped with granola, coconut flakes, and fresh fruit for a nutritious treat.
• Green smoothie: Blended with spinach, kale, banana, and almond milk, offering a refreshing and energizing drink packed with nutrients.
• Berry smoothie: A sweet, tangy blend of mixed berries, yogurt, and honey, providing a burst of antioxidants in every sip.

15. Thai appetizer platters – Flavorful and versatile

Thai appetizer platters are a perfect way to introduce a wide variety of flavors and textures in a single meal. These platters often feature items like crispy spring rolls, satay skewers, and spicy fish cakes, paired with dipping sauces such as peanut or sweet chili sauce. Complement the selection with fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and sticky rice for a balanced and satisfying experience.

For a more inclusive option, you can include vegetarian options like tofu satay or vegetable spring rolls. Thai appetizer platters are ideal for office lunches, providing a flavorful yet convenient way to satisfy everyone’s palate

• Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with vegetables or proteins like shrimp, served with a tangy dipping sauce
• Satay: Grilled skewers of marinated chicken or beef, typically paired with a rich, creamy peanut sauce
• Fish Cakes: Spicy, savory patties made from minced fish and Thai herbs, often served with a sweet and sour cucumber relish

16. Greek gyros – Tasty and filling

Gyros are a classic Mediterranean dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful. These pita-wrapped meals are filled with seasoned meats such as lamb, beef, or chicken, topped with fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, and drizzled with creamy tzatziki sauce. Gyros are a filling, handheld option that employees will enjoy, and they come with the added benefit of being customizable.

To make the meal more inclusive, you can offer vegetarian gyros made with falafel or grilled vegetables. Gyros are typically served with sides like Greek salad, stuffed grape leaves, or roasted potatoes, creating a complete Mediterranean feast that’s both delicious and nutritious​.

• Lamb gyros: Tender slices of marinated lamb wrapped in a pita with fresh vegetables and creamy tzatziki sauce.
• Chicken gyros: Grilled chicken, served with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and tzatziki in a warm, fluffy pita.
• Falafel gyros: Crispy falafel balls, paired with tangy sauce and fresh vegetables, offering a vegetarian alternative to the classic meat version.

17. Ramen – A comforting bowl

Ramen has moved beyond its origins as a simple, college dorm staple to become a gourmet dish beloved by foodies. A ramen bar allows employees to customize their bowls with a variety of toppings like marinated pork, soft-boiled eggs, mushrooms, seaweed, and bamboo shoots. You can also offer different types of broths, including pork-based tonkotsu, soy-based shoyu, or vegetarian miso.

Ramen is a warming, comforting meal, especially during the colder months. It provides a balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables, making it a hearty and nourishing lunch option. Additionally, ramen can easily be adapted to suit vegetarian and gluten-free diets by offering rice noodles or zoodles (zucchini noodles) and vegetable-based broths​

• Tonkotsu ramen: Rich pork broth with tender noodles, marinated pork belly, and a soft-boiled egg, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Shoyu ramen: Soy sauce-based broth with noodles, bamboo shoots, and pork, offering a lighter yet flavorful ramen option.
• Vegetarian ramen: A plant-based version with vegetable broth, tofu, and seasonal vegetables, catering to vegetarians and vegans.

18. Breakfast for lunch – A fun twist

Who says breakfast is only for the morning? Serving breakfast for lunch is a fun and comforting option that many employees will appreciate. Offer a spread of classic breakfast items like scrambled eggs, bacon, pancakes, waffles, and hash browns. You can also include healthier options like yogurt parfaits, fresh fruit, and smoothies for those looking for lighter fare.

Breakfast-for-lunch catering works especially well on casual Fridays or during meetings, as it creates a relaxed, cozy atmosphere. Add a coffee bar or fresh juices to enhance the experience and keep your team energized throughout the day​

• Scrambled eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs served with sides like bacon, toast, and hash browns for a comforting midday meal.
• Pancakes: Light, fluffy pancakes topped with butter and syrup, perfect for a sweet and indulgent breakfast-for-lunch treat.
• Avocado toast: Smashed avocado spread on toasted bread, often topped with eggs, radishes, or chili flakes for a healthy, modern twist.

19. Burgers and sliders – A classic, simplified

Burgers and sliders are a timeless catering option that can be easily customized to fit everyone’s preferences. Offer a build-your-own burger bar with various patty options like beef, chicken, turkey, or plant-based alternatives like black bean or Impossible burgers. Include an array of toppings such as cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, and specialty condiments like chipotle mayo or BBQ sauce.

Sliders are the perfect mini-version of burgers, allowing employees to sample multiple varieties in one sitting. You can also offer sides like fries, onion rings, or coleslaw to complete the meal. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a company picnic, burgers and sliders are sure to please​

• Beef burgers: Classic juicy beef patty served with a variety of toppings like cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and condiments.
• Chicken burgers: Grilled or fried chicken patty, served with fresh veggies and a variety of sauces like mayo or BBQ.
• Vegetarian sliders: Mini burgers made with plant-based patties, often served with avocado, pickles, and other fresh toppings.

20. Salad spreads – Light and refreshing

Salads are a versatile lunch option that can be both hearty and light, perfect for those looking for something fresh. Offering a salad bar allows employees to build their own with a variety of greens, toppings like roasted vegetables, grilled proteins, nuts, and seeds, and a range of dressings from classic Caesar to balsamic vinaigrette.

Salads can also be pre-made, offering options like a Mediterranean-inspired salad with chickpeas, olives, and feta, or a protein-packed Cobb salad. These light yet satisfying meals are ideal for health-conscious employees.

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy Caesar dressing, croutons, and shaved Parmesan, optionally topped with grilled chicken.
• Greek Salad: A mix of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese, dressed with olive oil and oregano.
• Cobb Salad: A hearty option with romaine, grilled chicken, bacon, avocado, and blue cheese, finished with a red wine vinaigrette.

Trypinic may not offer each and every single Food type for your office but you can be sure that this is the best service live today to get the widest choice of amazing restaurants near your office. Lunch catering services will never be the same for your employees, and they will love you for bringing us to the office!

Read more:

• 24 Food Ideas for Work Meetings That Will Impress Your Team
• Top 15 Healthy Snacks to Keep You Energized at Work
• How to Easily Order Lunch for Your Office: A Step-by-Step Guide
• How to Start a Workplace Lunch Program Employees Will Love