Summer is perfect for bringing your community together with fun, engaging resident events. Whether you manage a multifamily, student, or active senior housing community, offering unique and delicious food stations can be the highlight of your event. This July, let’s dive into three crowd-pleasing food station ideas that will impress: a Burger Station, an Ice Cream Sandwich Bar, and a Poke Bowl Station.
1. Burger Station: A Classic with a Twist
Why It Works: Everyone loves a good burger, and a burger station allows for customization that caters to diverse tastes. This interactive setup not only provides a delicious meal but also serves as a great conversation starter among residents.
How to Set It Up:
- Ingredients: Offer a variety of proteins such as beef, chicken, veggie, and turkey patties.
- Buns: Include classic sesame seed buns, brioche buns, and lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
- Toppings and Condiments: Create a toppings bar with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles, cheese slices (cheddar, Swiss, American), and unique options like avocado, bacon, and sautéed mushrooms. Don’t forget a range of condiments from ketchup and mustard to BBQ sauce, aioli, and hot sauce.
- Grill or Pre-Cooked: If possible, have a grill station where burgers are cooked to order. Alternatively, pre-cook patties and keep them warm in chafing dishes.
Pro Tip: Decorate the station with a summer BBQ theme and include sides like coleslaw, potato salad, and corn on the cob to complete the meal.
2. Ice Cream Sandwich Bar: A Cool Treat for Hot Days
Why It Works: An Ice Cream Sandwich Bar is a delightful way to beat the heat and offers a fun, nostalgic treat that residents of all ages will enjoy.
How to Set It Up:
- Cookies: Provide an assortment of cookies such as chocolate chip, sugar, oatmeal, and brownie cookies.
- Ice Cream Flavors: Offer classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry, along with a few unique options like mint chocolate chip, cookies and cream, and salted caramel.
- Toppings: Set out toppings like sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, crushed nuts, and fruit.
- Assembly: Allow residents to mix and match cookies and ice cream to create their perfect ice cream sandwich. Consider having a staff member assist with scooping to maintain a clean and organized station.
Pro Tip: Keep ice cream cold by using coolers or ice packs and provide napkins and wet wipes to handle the inevitable drips and messes.
3. Poke Bowl Station: Fresh and Flavorful
Why It Works: Poke bowls are a trendy, healthy option that can be customized to fit a variety of dietary preferences. This station is sure to be a hit, especially with residents looking for a lighter summer meal.
How to Set It Up:
- Base Options: Offer bases like sushi rice, brown rice, and mixed greens.
- Proteins: Include a variety of proteins such as marinated tuna, salmon, tofu, and cooked shrimp.
- Toppings: Provide a wide range of fresh toppings like avocado, cucumber, edamame, seaweed salad, mango, pickled ginger, and radish.
- Sauces: Set out a selection of sauces such as soy sauce, ponzu, spicy mayo, and sesame dressing.
- Garnishes: Don’t forget garnishes like sesame seeds, nori strips, and green onions.
Pro Tip: Display a few example bowls to inspire residents and offer pre-packaged options for those who prefer a grab-and-go meal.
Conclusion
Creating memorable and enjoyable resident events in July doesn’t have to be complicated. With these food station ideas, you can provide delicious, customizable options that cater to everyone’s tastes. A Burger Station, Ice Cream Sandwich Bar, and Poke Bowl Station not only offer something for every palate but also encourage interaction and engagement among your residents. So, fire up the grill, scoop out the ice cream, and prepare the freshest poke—it’s time to celebrate summer in style!
Get more insights from our latest live video HERE