There’s no question that food and drink are the typical stars of the show at any catered event. But all too often, bar service can be a little lackluster — with the usual offerings, vodka, bourbon, standard mixers, a specialty drink, beer, and wine. When you think about it, bar service should be center stage
The mid-day catered event is the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion, impress a client, or show your appreciation for employees and colleagues. It can also be a little easier on the catering budget as lunches tend to be primarily food-centric and don’t involve a hefty bar bill or expansive dessert displays. Plus, lunches
Two-Martini lunches. Mint Juleps on Derby Day. Mai Tais on the beach. These iconic cocktails conjure up a simple and often more indulgent experience. But they are making a comeback at many catered events and for a good reason. They were good back then, and they are just as satisfying today. The Originals As mixology
It’s no secret that an open bar will add to the festivities for any catered event or a wedding. Sure, Uncle Bob is prone to Maker’s Mark and ginger ale, or your corporate guests might order a Moscow Mule because it’s trendy, but offering a limited drink menu that pairs each with a specific appetizer
While COVID may seem to be in the rear-view mirror as more and more people get their first, second, third, and even fourth vaccines and the infection and hospitalization rates continue to decline, some of its side effects are here to stay for a long time. That includes individual servings on catering menus, a trend
Parties are supposed to be about having fun, but that doesn’t apply to the host all too often. Especially if you’re trying to tackle it yourself, they are a lot of work, and hosting a celebration comes with its challenges. First, there’s the planning. Is there a theme? Who’s on the guest list? What’s the
It’s not surprising that New Orleans is riding the wave of the craft cocktail craze. After all, Creole apothecary Antoine Peychaud invented New Orleans’ famous Sazerac at his shop at 437 Royal Street. The cocktail was tweaked over time, Peychaud’s favorite French brandy, Sazerac de Forge & Fils, was substituted for Rye-whiskey or bourbon, and
A highly civilized ritual established in Britain in the early 1804’s, afternoon tea was more than just a way to stave off hunger before an evening meal, it was a celebration of elegance and sophistication. Initially developed as a private event for ladies climbing the societal ladder, Queen Victoria elevated it to a more formal
The cocktail category is huge, and different cocktails serve a different purpose at social events. There are aperitifs that are served before a meal. There are cocktails meant for drinking with food. There are slow sippers meant as a night cap. Then there’s a whole other category of cocktails, called dessert drinks, that are rich
Alec Waugh insists in a 1970 Esquire essay that he invented the concept of drinks before dinner in the 1920s. Fast forward just a couple of decades and the art of cocktails has a culture all its own. From specialty mixologists that prepare cocktails with the flair of stage performers, to cocktails with ingredients as
Coffee is a mainstay at just about any event, and is usually relegated to the end, served with desserts and cordials. But coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world with more than 400 billion cups consumed annually. So, why not make it shine? Customized coffee sleeves Most coffee shops have them
The fresh air, sunshine, gentle breezes, and foliage teeming with blooms are just a few of the things that can make a garden wedding so magical. There are few things more memorable than watching a couple recite their vows beneath a century-old, grandfather oak tree or at the water’s edge in the soft light of
Unique food and drink pairings are more inventive than ever and have added a special “wow” factor to any full-service catering event. With the nationwide explosion in the number of microbreweries, craft distillers, and U.S.-based vintners, America’s palette for both food and drink is more adventurous than ever. What this means to the catering industry
In many cultures around the world, gluten-free is the norm rather than the exception. While gluten-free catering menus are a relatively recent phenomenon in the U.S., in countries like Mexico, Thailand, Greece, Italy, and India, gluten-free foods have been a staple of the diets around the world for centuries. If you’re planning a full-service catering
Barbecue is hot right now—not just coming off the grill, but on catering menu at events around the country. New Orleans is at the epicenter of this trend, fueled by its history and penchant for spicy, regional foods and plethora of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. It’s now quite common to see caterers roll in everything
Well, except for the bride, of course. At any wedding or event, incredible food makes for lasting memories. By putting menu items and their presentation front and center, you can craft an overall experience that will linger long after guests depart. In New Orleans, food has stolen the spotlight for centuries. Today’s catering trends call
Recently the term “Dry January” has been all the rage. But for some, skipping booze is more of a permanent decision. They call themselves the “sober curious” and they are reshaping event planning like never before. More than 1.2 million people posted #soberlife on Instagram in 2019, and the non-alcohol beer industry is expected to
Self-proclaimed foodies all agree – bowl food is in! It’s hot (and cold), trendy, and so the thing to do at special events. Even the Royals are in on bowl food. What food? Bowl what, you ask? Don’t worry, Messina’s Catering and Events gives you the scoop on the ins and outs of bowl food.
You’ve found your soul mate and have selected one of America’s most romantic and fun-loving cities for your destination wedding. In a city steeped in history and bejeweled by stunning architecture, breathtaking views and upbeat traditions, choosing the right venue in the Crescent City can seem daunting – unless you know where to look. Here
It’s pumpkin spice season. Soon to follow, gingerbread season. Sweater-weather brings with it the desire for food and drinks that make the oncoming holiday season extra special. After all, the holiday season is a time for celebration! And celebration means great food and drinks! No one is questioning the importance of ham, roast turkey, oyster