Vegan event catering tips: How to host a vegan (or plant-based) event to impress

The idea that vegan catering can’t be gourmet or impressive is a major misconception, vegan chefs can create menus just as refined and remarkable as any traditional offering. But don’t worry, our expert team is here to guide you through every detail and plan your first ever vegan event with total ease!

Why host a vegan or plant-based corporate event?

There has been a growing focus on sustainability, wellness, and inclusivity at corporate events and embracing vegan or plant-based catering is a good way to reflect those values. Vegan catering means you can be inclusive by catering to a wide range of dietary needs as well as align and promote eco-conscious values and practices – something, we as a venue, always strive to do with our CSR policies. It’s an opportunity to make your event stand out. By embracing plant-based catering, you’re showcasing modern business ethics and environmental responsibility – all while offering guests a fresh, forward-thinking experience.

And if you’re looking to extend these values beyond the menu, you can explore our guide to sustainable décor ideas to help create a cohesive, environmentally-minded event atmosphere. A great event goes beyond food, it’s about creating an experience. Combine quality service, thoughtful presentation, and a strong sustainability focus to leave a lasting impression.

This may also include:

• Entertainment or activities that align with plant based ethos.
• Storytelling is the key to impress guests, this can be as simple as explaining the purpose behind your vegan menu choices.
• Keeping the service smooth: sticking to timings and setting the portions are the key to a flowing seamless service and experience.
• Offering thoughtful touches such as branded plant based gift bags or recipe cards or QR code linking to make your event truly memorable.

Tips for planning your vegan event in London

• Gather information early: Before you begin menu planning, ask guests about their dietary preferences, allergies and cultural considerations. This will help you design a menu that feels thoughtful and avoids last-minute changes.
• Be clear with caterers: Vegan catering is vast and can vary in type, style and complexity. Therefore, it is essential you communicate your expectations. Whether there is a specific presentation style you prefer, particular ingredients you want to incorporate or certain service expectations, clear communication ensures the caterer can deliver the experience you’re envisioning.
• Design inclusive menus: Ensure options align with vegan and plant-based standards but don’t just swap out the meat, work with your caterer to build dishes that highlight seasonal produce, whole grains, legumes, and bold flavours.
• Frame dishes positively and creatively: Focus on fresh, vibrant ingredients, innovative flavours and presentation rather than emphasising the “meat-free” aspect. This encourages guests to engage with the food with an open mind.
• Plan for all courses: From starters to desserts, keep the menu balanced and satisfying.Consider offering a mix of textures, temperatures, and cuisines so the overall dining experience feels complete.
• Prepare for questions: Guests may be curious about ingredients, cooking techniques, or what makes a dish vegan. Anticipate curiosity from guests and equip staff with friendly, informative responses so they can answer confidently and help guests feel included.
• Label dishes clearly: Use simple, consistent, and visible labels to identify vegan dishes and highlight allergens. This helps guests easily identify vegan and allergen-free options.
• Prevent cross-contamination: Ensure that all preparation surfaces, utensils, and serving equipment remain strictly plant-based. If your event includes non-vegan dishes elsewhere, keep those areas completely separate to maintain trust and safety for vegan and allergy-sensitive guests.

What to serve at your event?

We’ve covered how to plan your event – now let’s talk about what to serve. When it comes to vegan food, variety and flavour are key. As mentioned before, the biggest misconception is that vegan food is bland and boring but here are some creative, exciting ideas to serve to spark some inspiration.

• Finger foods & canapés:
  • Buffalo cauliflower wings
  • Vegan pigs in blankets
  • Vegetable samosas
  • Falafel with tahini dip
  • Glazed aubergine skewers
  • Stuffed mushrooms and baby peppers
  • Loaded veggie nachos
  • Jackfruit bao buns

•  Buffet-style meals:
  • Quinoa or couscous salad
  • Pasta salad with roasted vegetables
  • Classic potato salad
  • Sesame noodles with smoked tofu
  • Mediterranean chickpea salad

• Grazing boards:
  • A mix of dips
  • Artisan bread
  • Vegan cheeses &crackers
  • Olives and nuts
  • Cucumber & carrot sticks

• Main dish ideas:
  • Mushroom wellington
  • Thai green or red curry
  • Butternut squash risotto
  • Vegan burritos

• Desserts:
  • Chocolate avocado mousse pots
  • Sticky toffee pear pudding
  • Cheesecake cups – made of coconut milk, berries and cashews

Choosing your vegan caterer

Selecting the right caterer is key to ensuring your event runs smoothly and leaves a lasting impression. Here are a few things to consider when making your choice:

1. Look for specialists: Choose caterers who specialise in vegan or plant-based cuisine and understand its unique requirements.
2. Consider experience: Ask about their experience with corporate events or similar functions to ensure they can deliver professional service at scale.
3. Check dietary accommodations: Confirm they can cater to additional dietary needs such as gluten-free, nut-free, or allergen-friendly options.
4. Enquire about local sourcing: Support sustainability by selecting caterers who use locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.
5. Read reviews: Look for testimonials or case studies that highlight reliability, creativity, and quality.
6. View sample menus: Reviewing sample dishes helps you gauge presentation, variety, and alignment with your event’s tone and goals.

Setting a new standard for corporate event

Vegan catering isn’t a limitation, it’s a way to show conscious leadership. Embrace the shift toward sustainable corporate hospitality and you will see positive results. Hosting a plant-based event goes beyond serving great food; it reflects forward-thinking values and a genuine care for people and the planet. Through thoughtful planning, creative menus, and meaningful experiences, you can set a new standard for corporate events -one that’s inspiring, impactful, and built for the future.