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Picture this: you’re halfway through a department meeting. At least, you thought you were halfway through — you just looked at the time, and you still have another hour to go. Your team members are glassy-eyed, some seemingly about to nod off while others may well be disassociating. 

It is a tragic sight, and one that’s all too common in meetings. In a best-case scenario, you halt proceedings and bring in the one thing that is almost 100% guaranteed to turn a meeting around: snacks. 

Your colleagues brighten. They reach for whatever you’ve brought in and pour themselves water or top off their coffees. Meeting snacks aren’t just a nice perk; they’re fuel that will get them through the rest of the meeting and possibly even the rest of the day.

Man…what if you’d brought the snacks in earlier? You make a note to yourself to do that next time.

YES, SNACKS MATTER

In our ongoing quest to educate and connect local businesses with delicious meals, we admit that snacks sometimes fall by the wayside. But make no mistake: snacks are just as important to workplace morale and productivity as a fully catered lunch. 

Why are snacks so powerful? They do all the stuff a good meal does, including raising blood sugar, which can improve focus and energy. And they do it without the lapse in work that comes from consuming a full meal. 

Oh, yeah, the average snack requires a lot less cleanup, too. 

Plus, who are we kidding? People just love food. The company that feeds its employees has a better chance at keeping them.

PLANNING YOUR OFFICE SNACKTIME

You’re probably on this page because you want meeting snack ideas, and yes, we’re going to get to them. But much like full meals, different types of snacks may be better-suited for different times of day or types of meetings. And while some meetings can go on for hours, a lot of them wrap up much quicker than that. 

So stick with food that is easy to eat and doesn’t require a ton of utensils. Finger foods are a quick win here, as are pre-packaged items like trail mix or granola bars. As a bonus, they’re usually quick to clean up. 

Before dropping everything to go food shopping, find out what kind of dietary restrictions and preferences you’re working with. Some of your colleagues may have gluten or nut allergies or be vegetarian. You’ll want to be considerate of their needs, too — that doesn’t mean you can’t bring in donuts or beef jerky, but make sure you’ve accommodated the needs of the entire team. 

Let’s be clear: there is no one snack to rule them all. If you’ve got a group with diverse dietary needs, you probably won’t strike gold with a perfect snack everyone can eat (or wants to eat). But you can provide several choices that will a) fit your colleagues’ requirements, b) make them happy, and c) help them be more productive. 

HEALTHY MEETING SNACKS

• Hummus and veggie cups: What goes well with creamy hummus? Veggies! Specifically crispy ones like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. If you really want to go all-out, bring in a few different kinds of hummus and let folks pick their favorites. 
• Cheese cubes: Pretty much any cheese you can imagine is available in a cube. It’s tasty, it’s bite-sized, and did we mention it’s really easy to clean up? Throw in some veggies and crackers and you’ve almost got a full meal right there. Bonus: You can find dairy-free alternatives. 
• Trail mix: Now, we said there’s no one snack to rule them all, but if there were…trail mix might be it. There are seemingly endless mixtures available, with fillings including dried fruit, chocolate, nuts, granola, carob, and more. It’s also easy to eat and generally doesn’t leave a mess.
• Popcorn: It’s light, it’s fluffy, and it’s satisfying. We love almost any kind of popcorn as a meeting snack, but if you have an itch for more flavor (and don’t mind compromising on the healthy aspect a little bit), then you can add all kinds of flavors.  
• Fruit skewers: Sticks of fresh fruit pack a colorful punch; we like them stacked with berries, pineapple, and melon, but you can use any fruit that’s in season. They’re sweet and refreshing, and all you have to do afterward is toss or recycle the skewer. 
• Apple slices: Apples on their own are a sweet and healthy snack, but they also provide plenty of real estate for spreads. You can go traditional with peanut butter or almond butter, or try something more daring, like cocoa-hazelnut or cookie butter. 
• Yogurt: Creamy and often rich in protein, there’s a yogurt for just about every need. Plain, fruit-on-the-bottom, mixed fruit, and honey are all delicious options, and you can find plenty of dairy-free alternatives, too. 
• Bagel and cream cheese: It’s a touch heavier than some of the snacks we’ve discussed here so far, and indeed could be called a substitute meal. But this old standby is tasty and filling, and might be just the thing to kick your meeting into high gear. 

A LITTLE INDULGENCE IS OK

The more traditional office snacks may not be ultra-healthy, but you know what? That’s all right.

• Granola bars: They’re fast, they’re tasty, they come in all kinds of flavors and with all sorts of ingredients. Since they’re individually wrapped, they’re easy to hand out and clean up — a great fast snack during a brief lull in a meeting. 
• Donuts: Hey, they’re a crowd-pleaser. They’re also available in endless varieties, from basic unglazed to artisanal creations that are almost too pretty to eat. 
• Rice cakes: A light and crunchy snack that can be eaten on its own but mostly ends up as a vehicle for toppings (chocolate, hummus, nut butter, mayonnaise…we don’t judge). 
• Cookies: Honestly, most people love cookies. They’re sweet, they come in many varieties, and you can find them with alternative ingredients to ensure you can take care of the dietary needs of your team. 

LIQUIDS ARE IMPORTANT, TOO

• Water: Keeping water on hand is just the decent thing to do — but it doesn’t have to be boring water. Make flavored infusions available, or go the fancy route and pick up some sparkling water. 
• Coffee: Yes, you should have the ultimate pick-me-up on hand. Bonus points if you bring in creamer and sweetener for those who need it. Okay, you should probably ask your team if they’d like decaf, too. 
• Tea: Tea has many of the same benefits as coffee: it’s hot, it’s tasty, and many types have enough caffeine to give you a little boost. Ask your team what flavors they’d like and keep them in stock for future meetings. 

SNACKS ARE IMPORTANT…BUT SO ARE MEALS

When it comes to productive meetings, snacks can make all the difference. Tasty, easy-to-eat options can help attendees stay focused and motivated, turning what might have been a slog into a productive event.

But sometimes — just sometimes — you need a real meal. If that’s the case, Waiter is here to help. Our Meals on Demand is a great way to try out our meal delivery and catering service without all the strings of a long-term commitment. Honestly, it’s almost a snack unto itself. 

Nothing improves an office event like food. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just bringing everyone in for an all-hands, the right grub does a lot of heavy lifting. It lets colleagues know they’re valued, and it gives them time and space to nosh, chat, and just bond. Besides, food is awesome! Everyone loves a good meal.

(Especially clients. Clients are very impressed with food.)

The only real problem is putting together a meal for a large group of people who may have varying tastes and dietary requirements.

At Waiter, we’re all about food — and we love feeding large groups of people. That’s why we’ve put together this list of food for large groups. All of the options listed can be scaled up to feed whatever size group you end up hosting.

Speaking of hosting…you aren’t planning on doing any of the below alone, right? The planning and cooking hours behind the choices below are…intense. You can go right ahead, if that’s your jam, or arrange for an office potluck…or…you could let someone else do the catering work while you just kick back and eat.

Really, it’s up to you; the food will be delicious either way. But if the idea of purchasing 200 tortillas and the ingredients to fill them makes you a little nervous, think about letting us help.

Now, on with the meal!

1. Taco Bar

Taco bars are pretty much universally popular, so they deserve the #1 spot. Bring in the tortillas, the protein (chicken, beef, carne asada, and more), the veggies, the salsa…and of course the cheese.

Alternates: Got some dietary restrictions to work with? Cue up some vegan meat and cheese options!

2. Pastapalooza

Take the beloved concept behind the taco bar and swap in pasta. You can go with tried-and-true familiars like spaghetti, macaroni, and fettuccine, or branch out with gnocchi, tortellini, and orzo. You’ll also want plenty of sauces (marinara and Alfredo are only the beginning; have you thought about pesto?). And let’s not forget the add-ons like various meats and cheeses, or herbs like rosemary and basil.

Alternates: Most, if not all, of the food described has gluten-free and vegan versions available.

3. Baked Potato Extravaganza

This is still technically a bar, but we’re aiming for festiveness. Set out large potatoes with all the fixings: cheese, bacon, broccoli, chili, salsa, and any herbs and spices. Oh, let’s not forget butter.

Alternates: Vegan-friendly and dairy-free varieties of cheeses (and yes, even vegan bacon) are available.

4. Breakfast-for-Lunch (or Dinner) Buffet

While breakfast food is usually consumed in the earlier hours of the day, there’s no law stating you can’t have it for lunch or dinner or any other time of day. So go big! Bring in scrambled eggs and sourdough to make toast. Set up a pastry plate loaded with croissants and bear claws. Yogurt parfaits and fruit are always winners, as are pancake- and waffle-making stations.

Alternates: If you’ve got vegans, gluten-free folks, or other dietary needs, you can find all sorts of breakfast alternatives available.

5. Pizza Party

Pizzas are pretty much the go-to meal for big groups. Some pies have 12 or more slices to go around, and there are so many varieties to choose from! There’s vegan pizza, vegetarian pizza, meat-lover’s pizza…and that’s just scratching the surface. Bring in Chicago and New York-style pizzas and judge the crusts. Throw in Greek-style pizza, too. And don’t get us started on the toppings, which are endless.

Alternates: None needed. There’s a type of pizza for everyone.

6. Salad Station

Salads are sometimes viewed as side dishes, but a good salad can be a fine meal on its own. Bring in an assortment of greens to serve as the base (spinach, lettuce, kale, arugula, and more) and then go nuts with the toppings or proteins like chicken, shrimp, nuts, and vegetables. Don’t forget about dressing, which is, for some, the most important part; ranch, Italian, and more are out there.

Alternates: Set up a fruit station so folks can have a sweet alternative!

7. Sushi Soiree

Nigiri and sashimi and maki, oh my! There’s a sushi roll that fits pretty much every set of taste buds. Most sushi contains a base of rice and seaweed, accompanied by other fillings (or toppings, depending on the roll). Salmon and tuna are popular, as are the beloved California rolls, but that’s just scratching the sushi surface. Crab and tofu, along with other types of seafood and vegetables, may also make appearances.

But…sushi can be hard to serve buffet-style, and you may have to accommodate colleagues who are just not into seafood. This might be a good time to turn to Waiter’s Meals on Demand, which lets you choose a restaurant (like a Japanese place that has sushi and non-seafood options) and place a customized order. The folks who want sushi can get it; those who don’t can choose something else. Everyone eats!

8. Dessert Decadence

Sometimes you just want something sweet. Dessert-for-Lunch (or Dinner) can cover a lot of bases. Ice cream sundae bars are often a hit; just bring in several flavors of ice cream and enough toppings to give people a sugar buzz that will last into the next century. But you can also look into cupcakes, brownies, cookies, or cakes and pies.

Alternate: Once again, the fruit platter can save the day. There are also dairy-free, vegan ice creams out there, as well as sugar-free sweets!

How to Serve Big Meals for Groups Without Losing Your Mind

Getting the whole office together for a meal can be stressful. But look, you don’t have to do all of the above on your own. Waiter.com’s Catering Delivery gives you a direct line to restaurants that make exactly the kind of meals you’re looking for, and in the quantities you need when you’re ordering office food for many people. All you really need to do is tell us where to put the food and herd everyone over when it arrives (although to be fair, most people follow their noses and don’t need the help).

So go ahead: dream big. Let us bring you the perfect pies from a local pizza parlor, or the region’s best baked potato. Japanese, Mediterranean, Thai, Indian, Mexican, and other cuisines are all on offer, and we even deliver the food in recyclable containers. Who isn’t doing dishes after the party? You!

Seriously, though, check out our group food ordering. We’d love to keep your entire team fed.

The lights are flickering. Sinister music is emerging from an office. And is that a fog machine in the company kitchen?
Yes, it’s almost autumn, and that means Halloween is right around the corner.

Plenty of workplaces are already gearing up to welcome it, including ours. An informal poll of the Waiter offices found that people like:

• Consuming mass quantities of sugary goodness without judgment, while
• Dressing up like superheroes/cowboys/giant squids/David S. Pumpkins

The holiday itself can bring some levity to every kind of office. Costume contests, themed food, and yes, a fog machine can work wonders for morale (or at least break up an otherwise ordinary day).

But how do you do it? What can you feed your colleagues that’s outside the norm enough to be special, but won’t take hours or days to put together? Can you just slap skull stickers on everything and call it a day?

(You can, but that’s only half the fun.)

The Waiter team is filled (perhaps unsurprisingly) with big fans of food. We’re also big fans of food that doesn’t take a lot of effort and is fairly easy to clean up.
We kept those three qualifications in mind while making this list of tasty, easy-to-make, Halloween office party food ideas that you can create yourself or offer up to the office at large for a potluck-style adventure.

There IS such a thing as free lunch!

As more people return to office, we, as the nation’s premier restaurant food delivery service, are looking for an official “Chief Lunch Officer” – someone to help us find the absolute perfect lunch meeting meal. 

For this official Chief Lunch Officer position, we are looking for someone who considers themselves passionate about the midday meal, has a strong opinion on sushi vs. salad, well-versed in office lunch etiquette (they wouldn’t dream of microwaving fish!) and grins at the idea of a boardroom buffet.

Terms & Conditions*

• Applicants must be 18+ 
• Must be based in the United States with no applicants from Alaska or Hawaii being considered at this time.
• By submitting your application details, you give Waiter.com permission to subscribe you to our mailing list. You can unsubscribe anytime.
• This is not an offer of full time employment. One person will be paid $2500 to taste as many lunch options as possible and given $500 in WaiterBucks. No further payments or benefits will be given to applicants.
• Successful applicants are responsible for their own tax obligations.
• Successful applicants must agree to provide feedback by answering a set of questions we email them within 14 days of October 13, 2025. No AI-generated responses or images will be considered. Payment will be made no later than 30 days after returning their feedback.
• Applicants agree to make themselves available for interview in order to assist the promotion of Waiter.com and the Chief Lunch Officer position.
• All feedback (written and verbal), images, videos and ideas submitted by applicants can be used freely by Waiter.com.
• Applications close on September 30, 2025 with the successful applicant contacted by October 13, 2025. Waiter.com reserves the right to modify, extend or cancel this promotion in any part or in its entirety at any time. Waiter.com’s decision is final.

Catering lunch isn’t just about feeding your team. It’s about creating a moment to boost morale, spark creativity, and break up the work day. The fact that it’s over a delicious meal is just the cherry on top. However, deciding what to order is another story. Juggling dietary restrictions, preferences, and a budget can be daunting. And how do you make sure everyone is happy with what you choose?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best office lunch catering ideas for every budget, occasion, and palate. Let us help you turn your next office lunch into a meal your team won’t forget.

Jump to:

• Best Cuisine Types for Catering
• Best Cuisine Types by Cost
• Best Dishes for Catering
• Catering by Event Type
• Tips

Best Cuisine Types for Catering

Variety is key to making everyone happy. These popular cuisines offer a good selection of entrees and sides to accommodate your team’s diverse preferences.

American Food

An American office is sure to love these familiar classics.

Entrees: Burgers, hot dogs, fried chicken, wings, and BBQ ribs.
Sides: Coleslaw, mac and cheese, french fries, cornbread, and potato salad.
Desserts: Apple pie, cheesecake, and peach cobbler.

Italian Food

Italian food offers a mix of hearty and light fare ideal for catering.

Entrees: Pizza, pasta, risotto, lasagna, and ravioli.
Sides: Caesar salad, garlic bread, bruschetta, and antipasto.
Desserts: Tiramisu and gelato.

Mediterranean and Middle Eastern Food

These cuisines are great for vegetarians and health-conscious teams.

Entrees: Falafel, kabobs, pita wraps, and Greek salads.
Sides: Hummus platters, dolmas, and tabbouleh.
Desserts: Baklava and knafeh.

Thai Food

Thai food is highly versatile, with dishes that range from sweet to savory.

Entrees: Pad thai, tom yum, panang curry, and pad see ew.
Sides: Green papaya salad, spring rolls, and laab gai.
Desserts: Mango sticky rice and coconut ice cream.

Mexican Food

Easily customizable dishes to suit a variety of dietary preferences.

Entrees: Tacos, burrito bowls, enchiladas, and quesadillas.
Sides: Chips, salsa, and guacamole.
Desserts: Flan, churros, and tres leches cake.

Plant-Based Food

Healthy dishes for a team with many vegetarians and vegans.

Entrees: Grain bowls with quinoa or rice, plant-based burgers, and jackfruit tacos.
Sides: Roasted vegetables, vegan pasta salad, and fruit platters.
Desserts: Dairy and gluten-free pies, cookies, and cakes.

Take the stress out of planning your next lunch by setting up recurring catering to enjoy fresh, prepared meals with your team.

Best Cuisine Types by Cost

Staying within a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or your team’s happiness. We’ve broken down some recommended cuisine for every price point:

Budget-Friendly Options

• Pizza: Easy to customize and accommodates dietary restrictions.
• Sandwich Platters: Perfect for grab-and-go meetings or conferences.
• Taco Bars: Fun, build-your-own meals with a variety of toppings.
• Pasta: Hearty and filling, with hot or cold options.

Mid-Range Options

• BBQ: Pulled pork, smoked chicken, coleslaw, and cornbread.
• Mediterranean Platters: Fresh and satisfying without being heavy.
• Bowls: Customizable rice, noodles, or quinoa bowls for busy teams.

High-End Options

• Sushi Platters: Rolls, sashimi, and nigiri for special occasions.
• Charcuterie Boards: Elegant selection of meats, cheeses, fruits, and veggies.
• Steak or Seafood: Surf and turf menus with seasonal sides.

By aligning your catering choices with your budget, you can ensure that every office lunch is delicious and cost-effective. Create a corporate account so checkout is easier than ever.

Best Dishes for Catering

Some dishes travel better than others. Here are some crowd-pleasing options for your next lunch meeting or conference:

Appetizers

• Mini Sliders: Beef, chicken, or veggie options.
• Spring Rolls: Fresh or fried bites full of flavor.
• Deviled Eggs: An easy, classic crowd-pleaser.
• Bruschetta: Hand-held bites with various toppings.

Entrees

• Grilled Chicken or Salmon: Versatile proteins with fresh sides.
• Pulled Pork or BBQ Ribs: Perfect for casual, hearty meals.
• Sushi Platters: Light, shareable, and fun.
• Pizza: Variety of toppings to suit all tastes.
• Pasta: Hot or cold options for any occasion.

Sides

• Salads: Fresh greens and local produce.
• Roasted Veggies: Seasonal, healthy additions.
• Chips and Guacamole: Ideal with Mexican or casual meals.
• French Fries: A familiar, comforting side.

Desserts

• Cookies: A variety to satisfy every craving.
• Brownies: Bite-sized, easy treats.
• Mini Cheesecakes: Perfect for special occasions.
• Fruit Platters: A healthy, refreshing option.

Beverages

• Sodas and Sparkling Water: A range of refreshing choices.
• Iced Tea: Versatile and easy to pair with meals.
• Coffee and Tea: Essential for any office gathering.

If your team just can’t agree on a meal, try Custom Café to allow your team to order their own meals from their inbox.

Catering by Event Type

Often deciding what to eat depends on the type of meeting or event that you’re hosting. Below are some common workplace events and the best catering ideas for each:

Ad-Hoc Meetings

Last-minute meetings call for a quick and easy meal.

Recommended Menu:

• Sandwich platters or wraps
• Fresh fruit, chips, and cookies
• Coffee, tea, and water

Meals on Demand allows you to quickly order directly to your meeting, no hassle or further commitment required.

All-Hands Meetings

When the entire company is gathering, you’ll need variety to accommodate everyone.

Recommended Menu:

• Buffet-style meal with protein
• Customizable salad bar
• Cookies and a fruit platter

Client Meetings

Cater more high-end fare to create a good impression.

Recommended Menu:

• Sushi platters or charcuterie boards
• Bruschetta and mini quiches
• Mini cheesecakes and ice cream

Team Celebrations

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, launch, or milestone, this menu should be special.

Recommended Menu:

• Taco bar, BBQ spread, or pizza party
• Cupcakes or cake decorated for the occasion
• A mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages

Workshops or Training Days

Long events like workshops or trainings call for food that will keep you energized.

Recommended Menu:

• Boxed lunches with sandwiches, salads, and fruit
• Snack station with granola bars, candy, and nuts
• Coffee, tea, soda, and water stations

Holiday Parties

Office holiday parties are an opportunity to go all out with seasonal themes and comfort foods.

Recommended Menu:

• Roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing
• Mini sliders, charcuterie, and fresh vegetable sides
• Pie, cookies, and other festive desserts

Tips for Choosing the Best Catering Options

• Know your team’s preferences in advance. Create a spreadsheet with dietary restrictions, allergies, and preferences to reference when ordering.
• Set a budget before selecting the menu to ensure you stay on track.
• Offer a variety to satisfy different tastes and dietary needs.

Now that you’re prepared with plenty of delicious office lunch catering ideas, you can plan your team’s next meal. Explore our list of catering options available in your city to get started. From local favorites to budget-friendly options, there’s something to fit every taste bud on your team.

As recently as a few years ago, ordering lunch for the office usually involved bringing in a ton of pizza or the local BBQ joint. Sometimes the restaurant would deliver the food; in other cases, you had to pull someone (or several someones, depending on how much you ordered) away from their work so they could pick it up and then haul it back to the office. And did anyone on staff have dietary restrictions? Sometimes you could make special requests, sometimes you couldn’t.

Let’s not get into the poor soul who had to wander the workplace, taking everyone’s requests before compiling them into an order.

Fortunately, corporate meal delivery has come a long way… and the change started earlier than you think. Ordering meals for the office online became possible in 1995, when Waiter.com set up shop on the World Wide Web and introduced Silicon Valley to the joys of ordering without picking up a phone.

It’s been a long and interesting ride since then, and many competitors have come and gone. So grab a snack and get comfortable — we’re gonna turn back the (analog, of course) clocks to the end of the twentieth century.

Corporate Meal Delivery

In 1995, ordering takeout looked very different.

Yes, the internet was around, but in a far more limited capacity. “Getting online” tended to mean dial-up, usually through a portal that jammed up your phone or fax line while it was in use. If you wanted to get a meal for your office, you placed an order over the phone and then traipsed down to the restaurant to pick it up. The more technologically advanced places might let you order by email or, if they were really fancy, fax it in.

(We’re aware of how quaint this sounds.)

Waiter.com set out to change that. Founded by Craig Cohen and Michael Adelberg, the company — then called World Wide Waiter — aimed to link restaurants with offices. In a 1996 interview with Palo Alto Weekly, Cohen explained the difficulties he encountered trying to get sandwiches made the way he wanted. It would be easier, he thought, to take orders via a computer.

As Waiter.com was located in Silicon Valley at the very start of the dot-com boom, its founders saw the difficulties office administrators faced trying to bring meals into offices. They built the tech around Waiter.com specifically to allow businesses to order meals for their people. The idea was novel: go to one “web site” and access heaps of local restaurants.

Of course, they had to pitch restaurants on both the service and the internet itself — many didn’t even have websites. Waiter.com often hosted the first web presence for Bay Area restaurants.

In its early years, Waiter.com simply acted as an ordering portal, taking a small commission. Restaurants handled fulfillment. But the real innovation was the Shared Shopping Cart, allowing multiple users to collaborate on a single order. This was revolutionary for its time.

Other platforms emerged in response, some of which no longer exist. But nearly all of them borrowed features that Waiter.com pioneered — menu uploads, saved credit cards, and multi-meal ordering.

A New York Times article in 2000 described online food ordering as “very much an evolving technology.” Despite hiccups with competitors, Waiter.com worked “with hardly a glitch” and delivered lunch within 35 minutes.

Technology Ups the Game

The early 2000s were a breakthrough moment. Internet access became widespread, and restaurants joined the digital era. But the real game-changer came in 2007: the smartphone.

Now, users could order food from anywhere. With apps flooding the market, food delivery became more convenient than ever.

Workplace cafeterias started to feel outdated. Corporate catering became the new standard, offering diverse menus delivered straight to desks. Employees loved it, and employers saw boosts in morale and productivity.

By 2007, Waiter.com expanded to serve individuals, but they stayed focused on corporate tools — like scheduled deliveries days in advance.

Unlike gig-based competitors, Waiter.com employed full-time drivers. They used insulated catering bags and prioritized professionalism and food quality. Other platforms stuck with plastic bags and part-time drivers — often leading to cold or missing meals.

How the Pandemic & Remote Workforce Changed Food Delivery

The COVID-19 pandemic drastically impacted restaurants and food delivery. As remote work surged and dining out slowed, platforms like Waiter.com became essential to business continuity.

They implemented contactless delivery and strict protocols. And when employees returned to offices, food once again became a strong employee incentive. A good meal could make people want to come back to work — and stay.

Waiter.com, already optimized for large group orders, was ready. Their infrastructure was built for exactly this challenge, and they continued to thrive in regions like Silicon Valley.

The Future of Group Food Ordering Is Ongoing

Food delivery is still evolving. Many services now use AI and chatbots for customer support, making it difficult to reach a real person.

Waiter.com has taken the opposite approach. Their customer service team is US-based and reachable by phone or live chat — just like it was in 1995.

While flashy startups come and go, Waiter.com has remained focused on what it does best: feeding offices with great food and better service.

In 2000, co-founder Mike Adelberg said, “There’s going to be a day when this will be a big part of the restaurant takeout business.”

What can we say? He was right.

Sources

• Palo Alto Online (1996)
• Palo Alto Online (1995)
• New York Times Archive
• SeamlessXtra
• Cornell University News

A wise employer once said, “Feed them, and they will work.”

All right, maybe no one has made that exact statement just yet, but there is a direct correlation between food and productivity — people do need to eat if they want to do good work. At some point in the twentieth century, employers caught on to that idea and began building cafeterias in their workplaces. When this happened precisely is difficult to pin down, but the idea picked up steam when J.C. Hall of Hallmark noticed that his employees had only expensive local restaurants to eat at during their lunch breaks. In 1923, Hallmark opened its employee cafeteria.

It turned out employees liked having a place where they could eat on the company dime. Grabbing a meal at the company cafeteria didn’t just save them money, either; taking breakfast, lunch, or occasionally dinner in the cafeteria saved them the time they would have spent cooking at home. Employers liked it, too, in part because it kept employees in the building.

Other companies followed Hallmark’s lead, adding cafeterias to their buildings. What wasn’t to love? They kept employees fed, happy, and on the property. The trend likely hit its peak in the mid-2000s, when big tech companies turned their workplace cafeterias into luxury experiences complete with themed menus, banana cheesecakes, and sushi chefs.

Changing Workplace Dining Trends

We can’t talk about the way the workplace cafeteria has changed without bringing up the COVID-19 pandemic and roughly half the country abruptly switching to remote work. Maintaining a cooking staff and a fully-stocked kitchen and eating area has always been expensive, but huge chunks of staff either not coming into the office at all or only visiting sporadically quickly turned many cafeterias into, well, money pits.

As of 2025, a good chunk of the workforce has returned to the office, but many are still remote and still others are working a hybrid schedule — maybe two or three days in the office instead of an entire week. Keeping a cafeteria open five days a week, eight hours a day for reduced and shifting workforce numbers quickly became a matter of diminishing returns. On top of that, many businesses have downsized their facility footprint by moving to smaller buildings. This reduced overhead, but also led to less space to operate a full-scale cafeteria.

In truth, a massive shift in how workplace dining works has been on the horizon for a long time. As early as 2007, experts were raising doubts about the company cafeteria, pointing to increasing costs. Automation and computerized menu services may have reduced the need for service staff, but someone still needed to cook and serve the food, as well as clean up afterward.

Meals as an Employee Benefit

Realistically, even before the pandemic very few businesses could afford the kind of cafeteria scale the tech companies provide, and as the cost of living increases, so too will the costs of running any kind of food service. (It’s no wonder employees really like meal perks: research indicates that employee satisfaction jumps when free food is involved.)

So it makes sense to roll at least some employee meals into a company benefits package. Not having to cook and pack a meal (or spend their breaks scouting for an affordable restaurant) can be a huge weight removed from employees’ shoulders, to say nothing of the money they’ll end up saving. Besides, happy employees are more productive employees.

The message is clear: food is clearly still a draw for potential and current employees, and wise employers will find new ways to provide meals as benefits. So, how can corporations design employee meal programs that keep everyone happy amidst all this reduced space and shifting schedules?

The Increasing Value of Office Catering

Restaurant delivery services have long been a staple of modern life; you open an app, click the meal you want, and it’s delivered to you — usually within the hour. Eating in had never been so delicious.

Scaling that service to meet the needs of a business captures much of that convenience (and tastiness) for office workers. It allows businesses to offer meals as a perk without the massive associated costs and space of a cafeteria; beyond that, the variety available far eclipses what a few on-staff cooks could whip up on a daily basis. Setting up and cleaning up tend to be easier, too.

While it’s an intriguing solution, office catering presents some challenges. Office administrators ordering for groups will need to know their colleagues’ dietary restrictions and preferences; they’ll also have to know who is in the office, who is working from home, and who is fully remote (and how to look after them, too) every single day. Beyond that, there are budgets to consider; bringing food in may be less costly than running a cafeteria, but it is usually not cheap.

The New Office Cafeteria: A Gathering Place

The order is placed, the food has arrived, and the office smells wonderful… but where, exactly, are employees meant to chow down?

As we mentioned earlier, the post-pandemic downsizing has led to smaller workplace cafeterias. Happily, many companies have maintained at least a kitchen and a separate break area where staff can kick back and relax — and not eat at their desks.

Maintaining some sort of place for employees to eat makes sense from a productivity angle, as workers who take lunch breaks tend to be more engaged than those who don’t. Getting away from immediate work can serve as a mental and emotional reset, giving employees an energy boost and new clarity before they get back to the job.

These break areas often end up serving multiple uses in a busy workplace. They can be commandeered for meetings if extra space is needed, but can also host events like company happy hours, trivia sessions, or ice cream socials. Some businesses have looked toward more colorful solutions, turning their cafeteria spaces into showcases for local artists — some may even show off employee artwork!

Beyond that, having a space for employees to just hang out and chat with their coworkers can have an incredible impact on overall morale. Many of us spend upwards of 40 hours a week with our colleagues; building camaraderie and trust with them often leads to better collaboration and contributes heavily to job satisfaction and worker retention.

Cafeterias Pose New Challenges in the Hybrid Workforce

While they provide a place to sit and eat, most workplace cafeterias are somewhat limited in what they can offer employees. They’re producing vast quantities of food for large groups of people, which generally means their menu options are limited and may even be repetitive — for example, a set selection of meals for every day of the week.

Cafeteria chefs may not always be able to take dietary limitations into consideration, meaning some employees may need to look elsewhere for meals. The costs of running a cafeteria — as we discussed above — often mean keeping it open for limited hours that don’t always align with employee needs. Hybrid employees or those on flexible schedules may not be able to take lunch (or even be at the office) when the cafeteria is open.

It’s hardly fair to just deny them food when their other colleagues are benefiting from the cafeteria. In some cases, businesses have turned to catering to fill the gaps a typical cafeteria might leave. Hybrid employees and those with dietary specifications can benefit from this kind of supplementation: they still get the perk of eating on company dime (and time) even if the company cafeteria isn’t open while they’re working or otherwise meeting their needs.

The Future of the Cafeteria

While the size, appearance, and services the workplace cafeteria offers may shift with the times, it’s likely not about to disappear completely. You can still find the large, full-service company cafeterias, but they might offer limited operations — open every three days, for example, and only for a couple of hours at a time.

The current office cafeteria is often more of a gathering place, referred to as “the kitchen” (even if there’s not a fridge) or “the break room.” Workers still hang out and eat their meals there, even if those meals aren’t made on the premises. It’s still a solid contributor to office morale and productivity and will likely continue to do that long into the future.

Additional Sources

• New York Times: Corporate Cafeterias
• NewCity: The Cafeteria Comeback
• Facilities Dive: Catering as an Alternative
• Facilities Dive: Return-to-Office Catering Growth
• Workforce: Lunch Break Stats
• Total Food: Beyond the Cafeteria

What do you like to eat in the middle of the workday to give you that boost of energy you need to finish the day strong? Whether you like salads or something with plenty of meat, you can find anything you want around Saratoga. Waiter.com delivers for many restaurants in the nearby area, so you can soon enjoy tasty office lunches or delicious dinners at your house. Here are some fantastic restaurants that should definitely be on your radar for exceptional office lunch delivery in Saratoga.

Off the Stick Fresh Grill

In 2014, Off the Stick Fresh Grill came into being. Two brothers, Chris and Rob, learned first-hand from their mother what the effect of eating healthy food could be. After their mother faced severe health issues, they saw her lose 85 pounds through eating right. They wanted to bring those flavors and lifestyle to the Bay Area, and the result was this establishment. Not only is everything on the menu good for you, but it also all tastes great. There are also vegan, paleo and gluten-free options. No matter what dietary restrictions you may have, Off the Stick Fresh Grill aims to accommodate you.

Even people who are not on the keto diet end up loving the keto bowl. It consists of roasted vegetables and organic mixed greens. It comes topped with avocado and feta cheese. You also have your choice of protein, which can be chicken, tofu, salmon, lamb, steak or falafel. There are also several sauces you can add to your bowl, and they include hot habanero chili, lemon honey, herb garlic or creamy tahini. You get to customize your bowl precisely how you want it, so you end up with a nutritious, delicious meal without any regrets.

Mudai Ethiopian Restaurant

Ethiopian food may not normally be on your radar, but once you get a taste of Mudai Ethiopian Restaurant, you will want it frequently. The restaurant’s goal is to serve happiness to each and every customer through high-quality meals. Mudai was first established in 2004, and since that time, it has served authentic Ethiopian meals prepared with exotic spices. There are meals available for people from all walks of life. Vegans, vegetarians and meat-eaters all find something to love here.

When you want to mix up what you usually get for office lunch delivery in Saratoga, you need to try the beg alicha wot. This is a mild lamb stew prepared with ginger sauce, garlic and turmeric. It also comes with kibbe, which is a seasoned and purified butter. Many dishes that come out of Ethiopian restaurants are spicy, but if you want something a bit easier to handle, then this is the bowl for you. It has an incredible assortment of flavors, and you will want to get this stew down as quickly as possible.

Kali Greek Kitchen

When you are in the mood for traditional Greek cuisine, it does not get much better than Kali Greek Kitchen. This establishment is able to create authentic Greek dishes using locally sourced meats and vegetables. The chefs in the kitchen have drawn inspiration from their families’ roots, and they celebrate that heritage in every meal. The meats are slow-roasted, and the sauces are spicy, making this one lunch you will not soon forget.

To get a sense of what this restaurant is all about, first-timers should order one of the rice plates. The lamb rice plate is incredible, and it comes with a healthy portion of lamb leg. You also get plenty of rice, orzo, chickpeas and Kali Greek salad. You also get plenty of traditional tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping. It has all of the flavors you have come to expect out of a Greek restaurant. You do not want to overlook dessert, and Kali Greek Kitchen makes fresh loukoumades every day. This consists of toasted walnuts covered in cinnamon. If you have never tried it before, then it is high time you do so.

Order From Any of These Awesome Restaurants

From Palo Alto to San Jose, you can have food delivered to Saratoga from almost anywhere in the Bay Area. That means your next office lunch delivered to Saratoga just became a lot more interesting. Waiter.com is here for you, even if you want something tasty for dinner delivered to your home. Order your next delicious meal today. You will be glad you did.

How do you show your employees you care about their well-being while simultaneously setting them up for success for the rest of the day? You do not want your employees working on empty stomachs, so get them corporate lunch catering in Cupertino as soon as possible. Most noteworthy, the options around you are both delicious and plentiful. Likewise, the following restaurants offer fantastic catering options at reasonable prices. The best part is that you can keep them in mind if you do not know what to have for dinner later.

Naan & Curry

Naan & Curry has some of the finest Indian cuisine you will find in the Bay Area. The restaurant serves numerous patrons every single day. Once you see the bountiful menu, you will realize just how much Indian food you have to try. It specializes in traditional Indian fare, including chicken tikka masala, tandoori chicken and samosas. It also has plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. That way you can accommodate everyone in your office, and everyone gets to enjoy a first-class meal.

When you need to bring lunch for the office, you should select a few different entrees so that there is something for everyone. Naturally, the curry is the star of the show here. A phenomenal dish to try at least once is the lamb curry. The rich curry comes with boneless lamb pieces that have been slowly cooked in a huge pot. It is prepared with the restaurant’s special herbs and spices. For an additional charge, you can add jeera rice or butter naan for people to share. With this dish and anything else you choose, employees can enjoy a different kind of office lunch than they are used to. It will be one corporate lunch they will not soon forget.

Ephesus

For a different style of Mediterranean dishes, you need to order from Ephesus. This restaurant is a combination of a passion for food and simple creativity. Fresh ingredients are put into every dish from the marinated meats to the vegetable skewers. There is also an array of freshly baked bread on the menu. Ephesus is a family-owned establishment that offers numerous lunch and dinner specials. Additionally, The people behind the counter are more than happy to accommodate any corporate lunch catering in Cupertino you may have, and you have your choice of entrees to choose from.

There are several plates you can choose to feed your employees. One of the most delicious is the lamb and beef gyro plate. It is only available on weekdays, so it is perfect for corporate affairs. It comprises lamb and beef that have both been cooked on a vertical spit, and it comes with rice and salad. You can order several entrees to have out for your workers to partake in. They will love it!

Bravo! House of Enchiladas

Since 2012, Bravo! House of Enchiladas has remained a beloved fixture in the Bay Area. The primary focus at this restaurant is naturally enchiladas. However, it comes in so many variations, you will never get tired of it. All kinds of fillings are available, including beef, chicken, carne asada, cheese and so much more. It is a common dish, but it is presented in a new, fun light. Buy lunch from here for your next corporate lunch catering in Cupertino for a memorable meal for all.

All catering orders from Bravo! House of Enchiladas require 24 hours’ notice. For a solid lunch option, you need to get the family pack. While it comes with 12 enchiladas as well as rice and beans. You also receive a two-liter bottle of soda. It is enough to feed four to six people. If you have more people in the office to feed, then you may want a few family packs to go around. You can get whatever fillings you want, so everyone will end up happy.

Order Lunch for the Office Today

Above all, you do not need a special event to opt for office catering in Cupertino. It can be any ordinary day, and you can make it special with a delicious catered meal. Do not be surprised if your employees ask where you got the food from because they want it for dinner at home later. Lastly, place your order today from Waiter.com so that you can soon enjoy some amazing food.