2017-11-22 14:53:00
SAN FRANCISCO’S DYNAMIC CULINARY SCENE IS ONE OF THE MOST CELEBRATED IN THE WORLD. MAKE YOUR NEXT MEETING TRULY MEMORABLE WITH CREATIVE CATERING THAT SHOWCASES THE AREA’S INCOMPARABLE CUISINE. Immersion in the vibrant local food culture means caterers in San Francisco excel in creating unforgettable food and beverage experiences. From international pop-up markets and do-it-yourself ice cream sandwiches to custom grown ingredients and exquisite bento boxes, read on for insights on San Francisco’s hottest catering concepts and trends. INTERACTIVE DINING When attendees break from a meeting, treat them to being part of the food preparation. Lee Gregory, Executive Vice President of McCalls Catering and Events, emphasizes this trend is on the upswing because “the younger generation of attendees expect more stimulation.” McCalls’ make-your-own-ice-cream-sandwich bar gives attendees a chance to assemble their own combinations of San Francisco’s artisanal ice cream and treats from renowned makers like Bi-Rite Creamery, Ghirardelli Chocolate Company and Swensen’s Ice Cream. Immersive experiences with unexpected participatory touches reflect San Francisco’s innovative spirit. As John Silva of Culinary Eye Catering and Events describes, “We can have a 3-D company logo constructed, and then populate the logo structure with an edible component, like a doughnut wall or dessert station, where attendees can interact and harvest their food.” GROWN TO ORDER Customization goes far beyond the basics in San Francisco. Some caterers take full advantage of the region’s hospitable climate with their own local farms, so you can select produce to be grown for a personalized menu. Imagine “fresh-picked tomatoes still warm from the California sun” as Alex Tamburro of Componere Fine Catering describes. Caterers can even send you pictures of the produce they’re harvesting specifically for the event to share with attendees and build excitement. San Francisco is also one the most health-conscious cities in the country. Caterers can easily accommodate dietary needs and restrictions, including customized gluten-free, vegan and nitrate-free menus. STRAIGHT FROM THE SOURCE With an amazing abundance of international dining, San Francisco is a food adventurer’s playground. “Each community highlights different cuisines,” says Samantha Brown of Off the Grid. “If you’re looking for variety, this is a great city to find that.” Off the Grid can set up a mobile food market giving attendees the opportunity to taste their way around San Francisco without ever having to leave the venue. Imagine a food truck or station representing each unique neighborhood — dim sum from Chinatown, burritos from the Mission, pizza from North Beach and pinot noir gelato made with Napa Valley grapes. For a quick lunch option, there are market stands like Tacolicious which can bring your attendees casual but delicious fare. In place of the standard box lunch, try custom bento boxes with samplings from San Francisco’s Japantown. SUSTAINABLE SOURCING The Bay Area has long been at the forefront of the environmental and farm-to-table movements, so “local” and “sustainable” are well-established major themes for San Francisco caterers and restaurants. Organic and locally farmed produce, dairy, meats and seafood are de rigueur in San Francisco, along with earth-friendly serving materials and ethical practices. Meeting planners can even utilize smartphone apps like the San Francisco-based Food Runners and Copia, as an opportunity to donate excess food from catering events to people in need and reduce waste.
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