Office Lunch Catering

Whether you're planning a weekly team lunch, a high-stakes client meeting, or a company-wide appreciation event, thoughtful office catering can make all the difference. It’s no longer just about providing food—it’s about creating a dining experience that energizes your team, reflects your company culture, and meets diverse dietary needs. A well-catered lunch shows employees and guests that you value their time and comfort, which can leave a lasting impression far beyond the meal itself.

That’s where international flavors come in. From Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches and Japanese bento boxes to Italian pasta bars and Mexican taco stations, globally inspired meals bring color, variety, and excitement to the table. This curated list of 25 international dishes for office lunchs catering goes beyond the ordinary, helping you turn any lunch break into a flavorful, inclusive, and memorable occasion—one bite at a time.

25 International Dishes Perfect for Office Lunch

When it comes to office lunch, variety is more than a luxury—it’s a strategy. Offering diverse cuisine not only satisfies different dietary needs but also boosts morale, encourages social interaction, and reflects an inclusive workplace culture. Instead of falling back on the standard sandwiches or pizza, consider exploring international dishes that are portable, flavorful, and optimized for a lunch setting.

Catering services that feed teams or groups in a corporate setting provide convenient and varied meal options designed to nourish employees, enhancing workplace morale and productivity.

Whether you’re organizing a client meeting, weekly team lunch, or employee appreciation day, introducing international flavors can make the occasion feel exciting and memorable. Here are 25 internationally inspired dishes from around the world—each one ideal for office catering.

Vietnam

Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated for its balance of fresh herbs, tangy sauces, and bold yet clean flavors. Ginger is often used in Vietnamese dishes to add a warm, aromatic note. It’s light enough for lunch yet satisfying enough to power your team through the rest of the day.

1. Banh Mi Sandwiches

A banh mi is the ultimate fusion sandwich. Originating during French colonial rule, it combines a crusty French baguette with Vietnamese ingredients like grilled pork, pickled carrots and daikon, fresh cilantro, and chili mayo. These sandwiches are individually portioned and easy to eat—making them perfect for working lunches.

2. Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)

Pho offers a fragrant beef or chicken broth with rice noodles and fresh herbs like basil and cilantro. Served in thermos containers or self-contained bowls, it's a warm, hearty option for colder days. The aromatic experience of pho also provides a comforting mid-day reset.

3. Gỏi cuốn (Fresh Spring Rolls)

Made with rice paper, shrimp or tofu, vermicelli noodles, and fresh greens, these rolls are dipped in peanut or hoisin sauce. They’re gluten-free, easy to hold, and low-mess—excellent for meetings or networking lunches.

Italy

Italian cuisine is beloved for its universal appeal and crowd-pleasing comfort foods. Dishes like Eggplant Parmesan highlight the flavorful use of eggplant in Italian cooking. These dishes can be served warm or cold and are usually quick to assemble and serve.

4. Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches

Crispy breaded chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, tucked into sandwich rolls. It’s like a hearty Italian dinner repackaged as a manageable, single-serving lunch.

5. Pasta Bar (Penne, Alfredo, Bolognese)

Set up a build-your-own pasta bar where attendees can choose from sauces and toppings like grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. It caters to various dietary preferences and creates a custom lunch experience.

6. Caprese Skewers

These bite-sized skewers feature cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves, drizzled with balsamic glaze. They make an elegant side or appetizer with minimal cleanup.

Japan

Japanese food excels in balance, presentation, and nutrition—qualities that align well with office meals where portion control and presentation matter. A seaweed salad can be an excellent side dish that complements various meal options, adding diversity and appeal to your catering menu.

7. Bento Boxes

Bento boxes come with segmented compartments that separate rice, protein, pickled vegetables, and sometimes fruit or dessert. They’re easy to distribute and visually pleasing, which makes lunch feel more like a special occasion.

8. Chicken Teriyaki with Rice

This dish features juicy chicken glazed in a sweet soy-based sauce, served over a bed of steamed rice. It’s easy to pack and reheat, with familiar flavors that appeal to many palates.

9. Sushi Rolls

From California rolls to cucumber maki, sushi offers a variety of vegetarian and fish options. Ideal for individually boxed lunches, sushi is neat, satisfying, and always a hit at the office.

Mexico

Mexican dishes are flavorful and festive—perfect for building camaraderie and enjoying a shared experience. Including options like lettuce in your catering ideas can provide a variety of food choices suitable for office settings.

10. Taco Bar

Set up an interactive taco station with assorted proteins, tortillas, and toppings like salsa, cheese, and guacamole. It encourages customization and adds a fun, social component to lunchtime.

11. Chicken Enchiladas

Corn tortillas rolled with seasoned chicken and smothered in red or green sauce, then baked with cheese. They reheat well and pair nicely with rice or beans for a filling lunch.

12. Elote Salad (Mexican Street Corn Salad)

A creamy, tangy mix of corn, mayo, lime juice, cotija cheese, and chili powder. It’s a bold side that complements heartier mains without overpowering them.

India

Indian food brings warmth and depth through its complex spices, making it a great choice for an office lunch that feels like a culinary journey. Quinoa, often used in Indian dishes, adds a nutritious and versatile element to the diverse array of flavors.

13. Butter Chicken with Rice

A crowd-favorite, this creamy tomato-based curry is rich and comforting. When paired with fragrant basmati rice, it creates a complete, satisfying meal.

14. Chana Masala (Vegan)

This chickpea curry is both hearty and plant-based, simmered in a spiced tomato-onion gravy. It’s a protein-rich option for vegan or health-conscious team members.

15. Vegetable Samosas

These crispy, golden-brown pastries are filled with seasoned potatoes and peas. They're ideal as a side dish or snack and easy to grab between meetings.

Korea

Korean cuisine offers bold flavors and diverse textures, often centered around rice and protein—making it adaptable for boxed or buffet-style catering. Additionally, breakfast items like bacon can be included in office catering to enhance the overall experience.

16. Korean Fried Chicken

Crispy, double-fried chicken tossed in sweet-spicy sauces like gochujang or soy-garlic. It's finger-licking good and well-suited for sharing platters.

17. Bibimbap Bowls

A vibrant rice bowl topped with sautéed vegetables, beef or tofu, a fried egg, and spicy gochujang sauce. It's colorful, customizable, and energy-boosting.

18. Japchae (Sweet Potato Noodles)

These glass noodles are stir-fried with vegetables and beef or tofu. They’re lightly sweet, gluten-free, and serve well warm or cold.

Greece

Greek cuisine is a popular choice for office lunch , with its emphasis on fresh vegetables, herbs, and seafood. Dishes like Greek salad, hummus, and grilled lamb are all delicious and healthy options that are sure to please. With the use of ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice, Greek cuisine is a great choice for those looking for a flavorful and nutritious meal. And with options like spanakopita and moussaka, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and satisfying, Greek cuisine is a great choice for office lunch . The vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients make it a hit among employees, ensuring a delightful and memorable dining experience.

19. Chicken Souvlaki Wraps

Skewered and marinated chicken wrapped in pita with tzatziki, tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers. These wraps are mess-free and flavorful.

20. Greek Salad with Feta

With tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, olives, and creamy feta, this salad is a fresh, crunchy side that complements heavier mains.

21. Spanakopita

This spinach and feta cheese pastry is encased in flaky phyllo dough and served in small squares. It’s a vegetarian-friendly finger food that's both savory and satisfying.

Thailand

Thai food is known for its balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements. Many Thai dishes can be pre-portioned or self-served without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, Thai cuisine offers excellent breakfast options for morning meetings, providing a diverse range of delicious choices to energize your team.

22. Pad Thai

Rice noodles stir-fried with egg, tofu or shrimp, bean sprouts, and crushed peanuts. It’s a complete meal with a little bit of everything and widely adored.

23. Thai Green or Red Curry

These coconut milk-based curries are rich, spicy, and aromatic—served with jasmine rice, they offer a warm and hearty lunch.

24. Mango Sticky Rice

This tropical dessert pairs sweet mango slices with glutinous rice and coconut cream. It's refreshing and ideal for rounding out a Thai-themed lunch.

Lebanon / Middle East

Middle Eastern flavors emphasize fresh herbs, lemon, ginger, and spices—offering both vegetarian and protein-rich options.

25. Chicken Shawarma Wraps

Spiced chicken shaved off a spit, layered with garlic sauce, pickles, and vegetables in warm flatbread. These wraps are handheld and filling.

Introduction to Office Catering

Office catering is a fantastic way to boost morale and productivity in the workplace. By providing a delicious and convenient meal option, employees can refuel and recharge for the rest of the day. With a wide range of cuisines and dishes to choose from, office catering can be tailored to suit any group size, dietary need, or budget. From sandwiches and salads to seafood and roasted chicken, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a boxed lunch or a full-blown catered event, office catering is a great way to show your team that you care. The variety and quality of the meals can turn an ordinary lunch break into a delightful dining experience, making your employees feel valued and appreciated.

Benefits of Office Catering

Office catering offers numerous benefits for businesses and employees alike. For one, it can help to increase productivity and focus by providing a convenient and delicious meal option. It can also help to boost morale and job satisfaction, as employees feel valued and appreciated when their employer provides a meal. Additionally, office catering can be a great way to bring teams together and foster a sense of community and camaraderie. With options like individual boxed lunches, catering orders can be customized to suit any group size or dietary need. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a more formal catered event, office catering is a great way to go. It not only saves time but also ensures that everyone has access to a nutritious and enjoyable meal, enhancing the overall work environment.

Types of Office Catering

Choosing the right catering format can make or break your office lunch. Whether you’re serving a small team or an entire department, the structure matters just as much as the food. Box lunches are a convenient catering solution for meetings and events, offering a variety of delicious items like sandwiches, soups, and salads. Here are six catering styles suited for various scenarios.

Buffet Style

Buffet catering allows staff to choose what they want and how much. It’s ideal for large gatherings or when you want to offer a range of dishes. Buffets are also cost-effective and easy to scale. This type of service can effectively feed large groups in a corporate setting, providing convenience and variety to nourish employees.

Boxed Lunches

These are pre-portioned meals packaged in individual containers. They’re hygienic, portable, and time-efficient—perfect for meetings, workshops, or when staff are on the move. Additionally, our service offers timely and convenient food delivery options for various meals, ensuring that your breakfast or lunch arrives on time and alleviates the stress of meal planning.

Food Stations

Food stations encourage interaction and personalization. Think taco bars, noodle bowls, or sushi rolls where employees build their own meals. Including options like fresh lettuce can enhance the variety and appeal of food choices suitable for office settings. It turns lunch into a fun, communal event.

Drop-Off Catering

Ideal for regular office lunches or informal events, drop-off catering is a simple service where food is delivered and set up without the need for servers. It offers flexibility without sacrificing variety. Our team efficiently manages to deliver food directly to clients’ locations, ensuring a seamless dining experience.

Full-Service Catering

When you want to impress—think executive meetings, client presentations, or company milestones—full-service catering includes staff, setup, and cleanup. It adds a level of professionalism and polish to your event. Whether it's a corporate party or a celebratory gathering, catering services can make your office event enjoyable with a variety of menu items that appeal to everyone.

Rotating Vendor Programs

This option brings different restaurant partners or food trucks to your office on a weekly or monthly schedule. It keeps lunch exciting and supports local businesses, all while reducing decision fatigue for employees. With multiple locations available for order pickup and delivery, it’s convenient to schedule catering for meetings or events based on proximity to these establishments.

Office catering isn’t just about feeding your team—it’s about creating meaningful, shared experiences that reflect the diversity and energy of your workplace. By incorporating international dishes and selecting the right catering format, you can elevate everyday lunches into memorable moments that boost morale and productivity. So next time you’re planning a team meal, think beyond the usual and let global flavors transform your lunch hour.

Customizing Your Office Catering

One of the best things about office catering is the ability to customize your meal to suit your tastes and dietary needs. With options like vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free, you can ensure that everyone in your group has something they can enjoy. And with the ability to choose from a wide range of cuisines and dishes, you can tailor your meal to suit any theme or occasion. Whether you’re looking for a spicy kick from dishes like chili or a refreshing twist from ingredients like cilantro and avocado, you can create a customized meal that’s sure to please. With the use of ingredients like soy sauce, coconut milk, and sesame seeds, you can add flavor and depth to your meal without sacrificing nutrition or convenience. Customizing your office catering allows you to create a dining experience that is both enjoyable and accommodating, ensuring that every employee feels included and satisfied.

FAQ

• 1. What is the best type of food for office catering?

  The best food for office lunch is convenient, flavorful, and easy to serve or portion. International dishes like banh mi sandwiches, pasta bars, bento boxes, or taco stations work well because they offer variety, accommodate dietary needs, and create a fun, engaging lunch experience.

• 2. How do I choose between boxed lunches and buffet-style catering?

  Choose boxed lunches when hygiene, speed, or social distancing is a priority—ideal for meetings or training sessions. Opt for buffet-style catering for larger teams or casual events where guests can customize their meals and enjoy a wider selection of food options.

• 3. What international cuisines are most popular for office catering?

  Popular international cuisines for office catering include Vietnamese, Italian, Japanese, Mexican, Indian, and Greek. These cuisines offer flavorful, balanced meals with both vegetarian and meat options, making them suitable for diverse office settings.

• 4. How can I accommodate dietary restrictions in office lunch ?

  To accommodate dietary needs, include vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and halal options in your menu planning. Foods like fresh spring rolls, chana masala, sushi rolls, or hummus and falafel platters are naturally inclusive and ensure everyone can enjoy the meal.

• 5. How often should we offer catered lunches at the office?

  It depends on your company culture and budget, but many offices offer office lunch on a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly basis. Regular catering boosts morale, fosters team bonding, and serves as a valuable perk that can improve employee satisfaction and retention.