As restrictions continue to loosen, all signs point to a whole lotta plans for outdoor celebrations! We’re thinking sunshine, good music, ice-cold adult beverages, and of course, loads of unique and fun catering ideas!
Whether you’re planning to host an event at home or you’re just curious on the food trends as society starts opening back up again, Toronto’s top caterers share their ideas below!
Famous Chicken & Waffles
with waffles, buttermilk boneless fried chicken, and spicy peach ketchup
We have perfected our fried chicken recipe with our Famous Chicken and Waffles included in our picnic meal box for outdoor gathering for all sizes. To us, the boneless buttermilk fried chicken with waffle bites and spicy peach ketchup is a summertime staple - there is just something about fried chicken that reminds us of summer cookouts and neighbourly gatherings.
Jerusalem Spiced Chicken Schnitzel Sandwich
with pickled, red cabbage, cucumber tabbouleh, pickled chili, tahini ranch, green zhug, brioche bun
Our new Jerusalem Spiced Chicken Schnitzel Sandwich for this summer season is not the 'typical' fried chicken sandwich. We use seasonally relevant garnishes like green spring herbs for the Zhug and twist up a typical ranch sauce with artisanal tahini and earthy spices like sumac and coriander seed. The tabbouleh incorporates the best tomatoes we can find with preserved lemon and local cucumbers.
Seafood Paella
Individually portioned small plates are on trend this summer and we’ve got a curated collection of seasonal favourites that we can’t wait to share. These mini seafood paellas are the perfect example of what’s hot on the menu.
Antipasto and Insalata Caprese Skewers
with Prosciutto, Cantaloupe, Capicollo, Bocconcini, Basil, Kalamata olives, and heirloom cherry tomatoes, bocconcini fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze
One of our favourite and most popular food items for this summer are our antipasto skewers and our Insalata Caprese skewers. Both the skewer items are perfect for the summer as they are light and refreshing. They have a great combination of flavors and it's COVID friendly since they are individually plated for guests.
Heirloom Tomato & Buffalo Mozzarella Platter
with heirloom tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, basil, pickled cucumber, and marinated olives
The Heirloom Tomato & Buffalo Mozzarella platter can enlighten your outdoor experience this summer. A combination of heirloom tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, basil, pickled cucumber, and marinated olives make this a great side for any outdoor gathering.
Grilled Pickerel
with pickerel, asparagus, pickled ramps, and spring greens
The spring and summer seasons are perfect for working with sustainable fish, and we have a Grilled Pickerel dish that I’m really excited about. The fish, which comes from Lake Huron, is accompanied by a Fennel Leek Anglaise and Strawberry Rhubarb Sauce. We add Grilled Asparagus, Pickled Ramps, and locally foraged Spring Greens to complete a balance of sweet, sour, and savory that I just love. This dish is light, gluten-free, and it’s comprised of ingredients that all come from Ontario.
S’mores in a Jar
with marshmallow, chocolate, and toasted graham cracker crumble
A crackling campfire, a starry sky, the crisp summer air and the warmth of camaraderie—these are the simple joys that inspire our favourite treat this sunny season. With layers of silky-smooth chocolate, gooey marshmallow, and toasted graham cracker crumble encased in a securely lidded miniature glass jar, our take on s’mores offers the safety of individually wrapped goods while evoking the delight that can only be found in sitting around the fire with friends.
Baklava Cheesecake
A featured dessert from our new Summer Plated Dinner Menu, the Baklava Cheesecake has a light and airy ricotta cheesecake base with flaky phyllo crust. The honey-rose pistachio filling is wonderfully balanced, floral, and sweet. We’ve taken two traditionally heavier desserts—baklava and cheesecake—and combined them into a lighter dessert option perfect for any of your summer events.
Great insights! Outdoor dining has evolved with creative concepts and fresh culinary trends, creating an even more delightful al fresco experience.