As a child, Chinese New Year was all about the little joys: donning vibrant new outfits, decorating the house with lanterns and spring couplets, and gleefully collecting ang pows from relatives. But as the years go by, you start to realise that CNY is so much more than the festivities—it’s about family, togetherness, and those precious moments spent gathered around a table overflowing with delicious food.
In Singapore, where the hustle and bustle never seem to stop, Chinese New Year is a cherished pause. It’s a time to reconnect and share a sense of gratitude with family colleagues and loved ones. Whether it’s a hearty toss of Yu Sheng or enjoying festive desserts that evoke cherished memories, these moments strengthen bonds and create memories that linger long after the festivities have ended.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to make your CNY celebration extra special by planning the perfect feast for your office. From choosing the right festive catering options to incorporating traditional dishes that symbolise prosperity and good fortune, this guide has everything you need to create an unforgettable office celebration. Whether it’s tips for finding the best catering service or ideas for enhancing the festive spirit, you’ll have all the ingredients for a celebration that truly embodies the joy of the season. Let’s get started!
Types of Chinese New Year Catering Menus
Preparing a sumptuous Chinese New Year feast can be a labour of love, but let’s be honest—slogging away in the kitchen for hours isn’t everyone’s idea of festive fun. Between sourcing the freshest ingredients, ensuring every dish is cooked to perfection, and juggling your other CNY preparations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. So, why not skip the stress and opt for a fuss-free way to impress your employees? That’s where festive catering comes in!
At Elsie’s Kitchen, we take the hassle out of hosting and serve up two fantastic festive catering options that cater to all kinds of gatherings, whether big or small:
1. Buffet-Style Catering
Perfect for those large celebratory parties, buffet-style festive catering brings the Chinese New Year spirit to life. Picture long tables lined with a colourful array of traditional and contemporary CNY dishes, offering something for everyone to savour. Our Chinese New Year buffets not only let your employees pick and choose their favourites, but they also create a lively atmosphere where everyone can mingle, bond, and go back for seconds (or thirds!).
What’s more, our buffet spreads feature some of the classics you know and love, from Yu Sheng to festive desserts, alongside exciting modern additions for a fresh twist on tradition.
2. Mini Buffets
Planning a more intimate gathering? Our mini buffet festive catering is just the ticket. Ideal for smaller groups, this menu gives you all the indulgence of a full spread, but on a cosier scale. Whether you’re hosting a close-knit team get-together or celebrating with a small group of office friends, a mini buffet delivers the same variety and festive flair without going overboard.
Why waste time in the kitchen when you can spend more time with your loved ones, soaking in the joy of the season? Both festive catering options come thoughtfully curated to ensure you can focus on enjoying the celebration while we handle the rest, no sweat, no mess, just delicious memories! With Elsie’s Kitchen, you’ll get high-quality food, beautifully presented and infused with the festive spirit, so you can toss the Yu Sheng high and cheer with ease.
Traditional CNY Dishes to Consider
When it comes to Chinese New Year, the food is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of culture, history, and well-wishes for the year ahead. Each dish served carries with it a special meaning, symbolising everything from prosperity to good health. So, what are the must-have dishes that should grace your table for the ultimate festive feast? Let’s dive into the traditional CNY favourites you simply can’t miss along with some exciting new additions that will make your guests come back for more.
1. Yu Sheng (Lo Hei)
No CNY festive catering is complete without the colourful, symbolic Yu Sheng, the colourful salad that is as much about tradition as it is about fun. Shredded vegetables, raw fish (often salmon), and various condiments like sesame oil, peanuts, and sweet plum sauce combine in a festive dish meant to bring prosperity.
The highlight? Tossing the ingredients into the air while shouting well-wishes for wealth, good fortune, and health. The higher you toss, the more prosperity you invite into your life! It’s an interactive and lively dish that perfectly sets the tone for the upcoming year.
2. Poon Choi
A quintessential dish during Chinese New Year, Poon Choi is a hearty one-pot meal packed with layers of delicious ingredients such as braised meats, seafood, mushrooms, vegetables, and more. The dish is a symbol of family unity and abundance, making it a must-have in your festive catering for large gatherings. Each ingredient in the pot is carefully selected for its significance, with some representing wealth, others good health, and some simply as a wish for a prosperous and happy year.
3. Steamed Fish
Steamed fish is a must-have during Chinese New Year, symbolising abundance and prosperity. A whole steamed fish is often prepared with ginger and spring onions, representing a good start and finish to the year.
But if you’re looking to switch things up this year, why not introduce some seasonal specials to the festive catering? One option is the Claypot-Style Red Miso Fish paired with lotus root, snap peas, and fried yam for a hearty, comforting flavour. Another exciting choice is the Slow-Poached Barramundi (locally sourced)with the bold, tangy flavours of Assam Laksa sauce, garnished with a refreshing pineapple cucumber kerabu for a fusion of sweet, sour, and spicy flavours.
For those with a taste for something more adventurous, try the Premium Toman Fish cooked in a Sichuan-inspired broth that’s both spicy and sour, perfectly balanced with the tanginess of pickled mustard and leek. These exclusive dishes add a touch of elegance and variety to your celebration while keeping the festive spirit alive.
4. Festive Desserts (e.g., Nian Gao, Pineapple Tarts)
For dessert, the rich symbolism of CNY continues with treats like Nian Gao (glutinous rice cake) and pineapple tarts. Nian Gao signifies progress and growth, while pineapple tarts bring wishes for wealth and prosperity. But this year, why not add some new, innovative desserts to the festive catering mix? You could bring in a Pineapple Sponge Cake with Lychee Chantilly, a delightful twist on a traditional favourite, or serve up a refreshing Snow Fungus Winter Pear in Osmanthus Soup, a light and nourishing treat for the soul.
For something more playful, try Salted Egg Honey Joy, a sweet and savoury bite that’s sure to surprise your guests, or Pink Guava Sponge Cake with Sour Plum Gelée, a fun and tangy twist on the classic sponge cake. And for those who love a savoury-sweet combination, the Cheesy Nian Gao Fritter with Candied Walnuts offers a unique take on the beloved glutinous rice cake, with a cheesy filling and crunchy walnuts.
For something indulgent, a Soy Panna Cotta with Osmanthus Konnyaku is a perfect option, smooth, creamy, and delicately flavoured with floral notes that pair beautifully with the rich dishes in your festive catering spread. These desserts not only complement the traditional offerings but also bring an element of surprise, making your CNY celebration even more exciting and memorable.
Whether you stick with the traditional favourites or opt for something fresh and exciting, these dishes will help make your office Chinese New Year celebration truly unforgettable.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Catering Company
Choosing the right catering company for your office’s Chinese New Year celebration can make all the difference between a mediocre event and a fantastic one. With so much riding on the success of the occasion, here are some factors to keep in mind to ensure everything runs smoothly and that your employees are treated to an unforgettable feast.
1. Experience and Specialisation
First things first, you’ll want to go with a catering company that’s experienced in handling Chinese New Year events. Why? Because this festival is steeped in rich traditions and having a catering company that understands the significance of the dishes and customs can elevate the whole experience. An experienced company will not only know how to create an authentic spread but will also be able to offer valuable insights and suggestions to make your festive catering spread even more special.
2. Menu Variety and Customisation
A successful CNY feast is all about variety and flexibility! When choosing a catering company, ensure their menu includes a mix of traditional Chinese New Year staples like Yu Sheng and Poon Choi, as well as some modern, creative dishes to suit a wide range of tastes. Of course, dietary restrictions or preferences should never be overlooked. Whether your guests are vegetarian or need special accommodations, a good caterer will be able to customise the festive catering menu to make everyone feel included and well-fed.
3. Service Quality and Staff Training
It’s not just about the food—service matters too! You want a catering company that provides attentive and professional service throughout the event. From setting up to clearing away, well-trained staff can ensure that everything runs seamlessly, so your guests can focus on enjoying the celebration. A friendly, organised team will also help set the festive mood and ensure that everyone feels welcomed and well taken care of.
4. Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Before locking in your choice, take the time to research reviews and testimonials from previous clients. Positive feedback speaks volumes about the reliability and quality of the catering company. Of course, if you come across any negative reviews, don’t shy away from addressing them. This will help you make an informed decision and avoid any unpleasant surprises on the big day.
By carefully considering these factors, you’ll be on your way to choosing a catering company that not only satisfies your culinary needs but also contributes to creating a joyful, memorable atmosphere for your Chinese New Year celebration.
Tips for Planning Your Office CNY Event
Now, if you are tasked to plan the office Chinese New Year event, don’t worry! It doesn’t have to be stressful, it can actually be a lot of fun! With a little preparation and a whole lot of creativity, you can host an event that everyone will enjoy. Here are some tips to help you plan a successful celebration that brings everyone together and maximises the festive spirit.
1. Set a Budget Early
One of the first things to do when planning your office CNY event is to determine your budget. This will guide all your decisions from the festive catering to decorations. Factor in how many guests will be attending, the type of Lunar New Year catering options you want, and any additional costs for activities or decorations. By setting a clear budget early on, you’ll avoid any surprises and can make sure you’re making the most out of your resources.
2. Choose a Suitable Date and Time
Choosing the right date and time for your event can make all the difference in getting your colleagues to attend. Aim to schedule it at a time when most employees are free and eager to celebrate. You might want to hold your celebration a few days before the official start of CNY, as this can help everyone get in the festive mood and maximise attendance. After all, who doesn’t love an early CNY celebration?
3. Incorporate Festive Decorations and Themes
A CNY celebration wouldn’t be complete without decorations to match! Think red and gold accents, hanging lanterns, floral arrangements, and other symbols of good luck and prosperity. A well-decorated venue creates a warm, inviting atmosphere and adds to the celebratory vibe. Consider adding a theme to your event to make it even more engaging—perhaps a “prosperity” theme with decorations symbolising wealth and success.
4. Plan for Activities and Engagement
No CNY celebration is complete without some fun activities to keep the energy up. From team-building games and trivia to performances or a traditional “lo hei” ceremony, activities can break the ice and get people talking. These interactive moments will foster camaraderie and ensure your celebration isn’t just a meal, it’s a memorable event that employees will look forward to every year.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a CNY celebration that’s festive, engaging, and unforgettable!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is included in a typical CNY catering menu?
Most Chinese New Year festive catering menus feature a delightful array of traditional dishes, including Yu Sheng, Poon Choi, seasonal specials, and festive desserts. These menus often offer flexibility, allowing you to choose the number of courses and adjust the price per person based on your preferences and the size of your gathering, ensuring a customised and memorable dining experience for all your guests.
2. Can we customise the Chinese New Year menu to accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, many companies offer customisable festive catering menus to cater to dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian or halal options. Be sure to discuss these requirements with your catering provider when planning your menu.
3. Is there a minimum number of guests required to book a CNY catering service?
Minimum guest requirements can vary by catering company. Some may have a minimum number of guests, while others may offer flexible options for smaller gatherings. It’s best to check with the catering provider for their specific policies.
Chinese New Year is all about togetherness, joy, and celebration. So, what better way to bring everyone together than with a feast that plays with the senses? From the excitement of Yu Sheng to the hearty comfort of Poon Choi, and even the indulgent seasonal specials, a well-curated CNY festive catering spread sets the perfect stage for creating lasting memories and strengthening bonds with your team. Why stress over cooking when you can simply sit back, enjoy the festivities, and let the food do all the talking?
Elsie’s Kitchen is here to make your office CNY celebration one to remember, with festive catering menus that combine tradition with a modern twist. Whether you’re hosting a lavish buffet or an intimate gathering, we’ve got the perfect menu to suit your needs and your budget. Ready to make your office CNY celebration unforgettable?
Reach out to Elsie’s Kitchen today, and let us handle the feast while you focus on what truly matters—celebrating with your colleagues and creating memories that will last all year long!