The office holiday party is one of the few events every coworker actually looks forward to, and it usually lands on the desk of someone who already has a full-time job. If you’re the office manager, the HR lead or the person who “is good at planning things”, this guide will help you feed the team without the stress.
1. Lock the date early
November and December dates go fast for caterers in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Pick two possible dates, check them with leadership, and reserve your caterer as soon as one is confirmed. You can always adjust the headcount closer to the day.
2. Plan for the real headcount
Count everyone who RSVPs, then add about 10% for the people who decide at the last minute. It’s always better to send leftovers home than to run out of food halfway through the party.
3. Choose food that works for everyone
A holiday menu has to cover vegetarians, people avoiding gluten, picky eaters and the coworker who wants seconds. That’s why a build-your-own taco bar works so well for offices:
- Everyone builds their own plate, so dietary needs are easy to handle.
- Hot proteins and fresh toppings feel like a real meal, not a sad sandwich tray.
- Setup is quick and the line moves fast, even for big groups.
4. Set a budget per person
Most teams think in cost per guest. At Brito’s Burrito, a taco bar starts at $225 for 15 guests, about $15 per person as the group grows, with setup included. Companies can pay by invoice, so nobody has to put the party on a personal card.
5. Think about timing and space
A lunch party during work hours usually gets the best attendance. Set up one long table along a wall for the food line, and plan about 45 to 60 minutes for eating and mingling. If your office is small, individually packed boxed lunches are an easy alternative.
6. Don’t forget the details
- Plates, napkins and utensils: ask your caterer if they’re included.
- Delivery window: confirm the exact time and who will receive the order.
- Leftovers: have a few to-go containers ready for the team.
Book your holiday party taco bar
Brito’s Burrito has 8 kitchens across Minnesota, so your food comes from a location close to your office, with tortillas pressed by hand that morning and proteins grilled to order. Tell us your date and headcount on our holiday party catering page and get a quote in minutes, or see all our corporate catering options in Minneapolis.