Working lunch meetings provide a great opportunity to combine business discussions with delicious food, fostering a more relaxed and productive atmosphere. Whether you're hosting a meeting with clients, colleagues, or potential partners, paying attention to the details can make a significant difference. To help you plan the perfect lunch meeting, we have compiled ten essential tipsthat will leave your guests satisfied and impressed.
Order easy-to-eat foods
When selecting the menu, prioritize foods that are easy to eat and minimize the need for utensils or messy finger foods. Opt for bite-sized appetizers, sandwiches, wraps, or salads that can be enjoyed without much fuss. This allows your guests to concentrate on the discussion without worrying about food spills or complicated dining etiquette. Pasta Evangelists own takeaway service is perfect for this occasion, designed to bring easy-to-eat, restaurant-quality pasta to your door in as little as 15 minutes. There’s truly no better way to get your pasta fix as soon as the craving sets in.
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Try a new cuisine
Inject some excitement into your lunch meeting by exploring a new cuisine. We like to choose suppliers that specialise in different cultural fare, in order to provide guests with a unique culinary experience. Not only will this create a memorable event, but it can also spark interesting conversations and cultural exchanges. We may be biased of course, but Italian is our go-to cuisine. Alongside familiar favourites, Pasta Evangelists maintain an ever-changing and seasonal menu of new dishes to suit all tastes – discover our takeaway and recipe kit menus (if you like cooking in advance) here.
Pick the right location
Selecting the right venue is crucial for a successful lunch meeting. Consider a location that is convenient for all attendees, ensuring minimal travel time and easy access. Look for a venue that provides a comfortable and professional ambience, allowing participants to focus on the discussion while still enjoying the convivial atmosphere. The office is the perfect location for ordering a takeaway. A local restaurant within the vicinity of the office is also a great option; the Pasta Evangelists team regularly catch up at the Pasta Bar in Harrods which is the perfect atmosphere for a more corporate-style lunch with clients or colleagues. Consider booking a table here.
Make sure everyone's dietary requirements are catered for
Prioritize your guests' dietary restrictions and preferences by ensuring there are suitable options for everyone. Gather dietary information in advance and communicate it to the restaurant or catering service to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or any other specific requirements. This inclusivity ensures that all attendees feel valued and well cared for.
Make sure there are enough courses for everyone
Strike a balance between ensuring a satisfying meal and keeping the meeting on track by planning the appropriate number of courses. A multi-course meal can create a relaxed atmosphere and allow for more extensive discussions. However, be mindful of time constraints and the need to maintain a productive pace throughout the meeting.
Get their attention and keep the energy going
To engage and maintain your guests' attention, kick off the lunch meeting with a compelling opening statement or an icebreaker activity. This sets a positive tone and creates a sense of energy and engagement. Consider incorporating interactive elements, such as group discussions or team-building exercises, to encourage active participation and foster collaboration.
Stick to the agenda
A well-structured agenda is key to a successful lunch meeting. Plan the meeting's objectives, topics to be discussed, and allocate specific time slots for each item. By adhering to the agenda, you demonstrate professionalism and respect for your guests' time. Be prepared to gently guide the conversation back on track if it veers off-topic.
Ensure there is time for questions
Allocate sufficient time for questions and discussions. Encourage your guests to participate by asking for their input and insights. Active engagement promotes a sense of ownership and can lead to valuable insights and collaborative solutions. Moderating the discussion and ensuring everyone has an opportunity to contribute will make the meeting more inclusive and productive.
Consider taking notes
Assign someone to take meeting notes, capturing important points, decisions, and action items. These notes can serve as a reference for future discussions and ensure that follow-up tasks are executed promptly. Sharing the meeting minutes afterward demonstrates your commitment to accountability and helps maintain a clear record of the meeting's outcomes.
Round it off with drinks and dessert
End your lunch meeting on a positive note by offering drinks and dessert. This informal yet enjoyable conclusion allows for more relaxed conversations and strengthens relationships. Consider offering a variety of beverage options, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, and a selection of delectable desserts to satisfy diverse preferences and create a memorable conclusion to the meeting. Alongside a host of authentic pasta dishes, Pasta Evangelists takeaway menu always features plenty of seasonal sides and decadent Italian desserts, perfect for all tastes and to round out your working lunch on a sweet note.
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