Summer parties are all about soaking up the sun, enjoying good company, and indulging in delicious food and drinks. Whether it's a casual barbecue or a corporate event, a memorable summer party often revolves around the food. Here's your guide to the best summer party food ideas that are sure to make your next event as delectable as it is delightful.

What to serve at a summer party?

A summer party menu should reflect the lightness and freshness of the season. The key is to focus on seasonal produce and keep food simple, and easy to eat so your guests can mix and mingle.

At The Brewery we have enticing stations . Check out our summer offering here (2025 offering - offering for 2026 coming soon!)

Starters and finger food for summer party

Kick off your summer bash with an array of starters and finger foods that are as easy to eat as they are enticing. Popular food for a summer garden party include:

• Cucumber rounds topped with herbed cream cheese and smoked salmon
• Cherry tomatoes stuffed with mozzarella, basil, and a balsamic glaze
• Mini shrimp tacos with avocado and lime crema
• Grilled peach and prosciutto skewers drizzled with honey

Additionally, consider adding a selection of artisanal cheeses and charcuterie to your spread. These bite-sized delights are perfect for guests to enjoy while they socialise and soak up the summer.

Summer party main course ideas

For the main course, you'll want dishes that can be easily served to a crowd and are suited to outdoor eating, whether buffet-style or plated. Grilling is synonymous with summer, so fire up the BBQ for:

• Lemon and herb-marinated chicken skewers
• Barbecue pulled pork sliders with tangy coleslaw
• Flank steak with a chimichurri sauce
• Seared tuna steaks with mango salsa
• Grilled portobello mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option
• Quinoa salad with grilled vegetables and vegan feta cheese
• Grilled corn on the cob with flavoured butters

Each dish is satisfying yet not overly heavy and is perfect for a summer party, as they are versatile and can cater to various dietary preferences.

Best summer party desserts

No summer party is complete without a sweet treat to end the day. Desserts that are light and can be enjoyed in the heat are ideal:

• Fresh fruit tarts with a crisp pastry shell and vanilla cream
• Frozen yoghurt parfaits with layers of berries and granola
• Coconut panna cotta with a tropical fruit compote
• Lemon bars dusted with powdered sugar
• Homemade fruit popsicles with seasonal berries
• Individual key lime pies with a graham cracker crust

These desserts are not only refreshing but also easy to serve at a large gathering.

Corporate summer party food FAQs

When hosting a corporate summer party, it's crucial to consider a variety of dietary restrictions and preferences. Here are some common questions to address:

How can you create a menu that's inclusive of all dietary needs?

To create an inclusive menu, offer a variety of options including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free dishes. Clearly label each item with its ingredients to help attendees make informed choices. At The Brewery, our menus include vegetarian and vegan options, but we can also prepare separate plates for guests with specific dietary requirements. This ensures that everyone can enjoy the event without any dietary concerns.

How can the food served reflect the company's culture or the theme of the event?

Reflect the company's culture or event theme through the food by incorporating dishes that highlight regional specialties, company values (such as sustainability or diversity), or colours associated with the brand or theme.

How much food should I plan per person for a corporate summer party?

The amount of food to plan per person for a corporate summer party can vary depending on factors such as the duration of the event, the time of day, and the eating habits of attendees. It's recommended to estimate enough for each person to have a satisfying portion, with some extra to account for unexpected guests. For more specific guidance tailored to your event, speak to your event planner who can provide personalised advice based on your guest list and event details.

Are there any local or sustainable food options we can incorporate into our corporate summer party menu?

Incorporate local and sustainable food options into your corporate summer party menu by sourcing ingredients from nearby farms and suppliers, selecting ethically sourced products, and reducing environmental impact through recycling initiatives. At The Brewery, our commitment to sustainability is evident in our seasonal menus, which prioritise local ingredients to minimise food miles and support local farms.

What to serve at a summer cocktail party

A summer cocktail party calls for elegant yet easy-to-handle summer cocktail party food that pairs well with your drink selection. Spicy tuna tartare in sesame miso cones, a selection of sushi, and dim sum are perfect choices for your guests to enjoy as they mingle. Don't forget vegetarian options like stuffed mushrooms and spinach phyllo cups.

What to serve at a summer garden party

Garden parties are all about freshness and simplicity. Serve dishes that can be enjoyed at room temperature, such as pasta salads, quiches, and gourmet sandwiches. These versatile options ensure that guests can graze at their leisure, indulging in a variety of flavours. Consider incorporating creative food ideas for a summer party, like a selection of seasonal salads such as a pea, asparagus, edamame, fennel and mint with lemon ricotta salad or a barbecued watermelon, watercress, radish, and vegan feta salad, to add brightness to your table spread.

What to serve at a summer dinner party

For a summer dinner party, balance is key. Begin with a light appetiser, such as a chilled cucumber soup or heirloom tomato salad. For the main course, opt for a dish that's both impressive and seasonally appropriate, like a herb-crusted rack of lamb or grilled sea bass with a side of ratatouille. Round out the meal with a decadent yet summery dessert, such as a summer berry pavlova.

What drinks to serve at a summer party

The drinks you serve at a summer party are just as important as the food. Keep guests refreshed with a variety of drinks, from craft beers and light wines that complement the menu, to infused waters, non-alcoholic soft options, and refreshing cocktails. A well-curated drinks selection will keep guests cool and satisfied throughout the event. Check out our quality sustainable wine offering this summer here. 

The best corporate summer party food at The Brewery

Experience the pinnacle of corporate summer parties at The Brewery, where creating unforgettable events is our specialty. In 2024, we're raising the bar even higher with the introduction of our new concept, The Retreat.  We’ve reinvented our usual summer offering with upscale marquees, relaxed food service, and a great selection of beverages to enjoy at your leisure. Understanding the importance of exceptional food at a corporate summer party, our award-winning catering includes 6 cuisine stations to choose from. With space for 30 to 800 guests, The Brewery is where your summer event becomes a highlight of the season, contact us today.

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