This guide will help you organize a delicious and stress-free meal for your team, tailored to the vibrant culinary scene of Atlanta.
Use the Table of Contents below to jump to the section that best fits your event—whether it’s a casual team lunch, a special celebration, or a formal gathering. We’ve outlined different catering styles and food options to make planning easy.
If you have questions about booking a caterer or want to know what to expect when working with a vendor, check out our FAQ or Workplace Catering page.
Table of Contents
Planning Your Company Lunch in Atlanta
A well-planned office lunch can do more than just feed your team—it can boost morale, encourage collaboration, and create a more engaging workplace culture. And in a city like Atlanta, where food culture is as diverse as its workforce, your catering choices can make an even bigger impact.
Whether you’re organizing a casual meal, a special celebration, or a formal event, the right catering choice makes all the difference. Below, we’ll break down different catering options to help you plan a seamless and stress-free experience.
1. The Casual Corporate Lunch in Atlanta
Casual corporate lunches are perfect for employee appreciation days, company milestones, team-building events, wellness initiatives, or just an excuse to bring everyone together. They require minimal planning but still make a big impact.
In Atlanta, you can take advantage of the city’s mild weather by hosting an outdoor lunch at a nearby park, like Piedmont Park or Centennial Olympic Park, for a refreshing break from the office. The key is to keep it simple, social, and stress-free—whether you’re enjoying a laid-back picnic or a casual team meal in the office.
Foods We Recommend
The best casual lunches are crowd-pleasers—easy to grab, affordable, and quick to serve. These cuisines are popular for their variety, shareability, and ability to cater to different dietary needs.
Forget the sad desk lunch—these handcrafted sandwiches come with fresh artisan bread, premium meats, crisp veggies, and bold spreads. Pair them with homemade chips or a side salad for the perfect bite.
Nothing brings people together like a few hot, cheesy pizzas. Go for a mix of classic and adventurous toppings, or bring in a mobile pizza oven for custom-made slices on demand.
A burger bar where everyone builds their own? Yes, please! Whether it’s a juicy beef patty, a turkey burger, or a plant-based option, everyone gets exactly what they want.
Messy? A little. Delicious? Absolutely. From smoky dry rubs to tangy buffalo sauce, wings are always a hit—especially when paired with classic dips like ranch and blue cheese.
Take your taste buds on a trip with bold, aromatic dishes like butter chicken, paneer tikka, fragrant biryanis, and crispy samosas. Plenty of vegetarian and vegan options make this a crowd-pleaser.
Fresh, flavorful, and satisfying—shawarma, falafel, grilled kebabs, and hummus platters offer a balanced mix of protein, grains, and veggies. A great choice for a health-conscious lunch.
The Best Catering Types for a Casual Corporate Lunch
Food Trucks
Food trucks bring variety, excitement, and efficiency to your event—ideal for groups of 50 or more. They work well for team-building days, milestone celebrations, and even wellness-focused lunches with fresh, made-to-order meals.
What you can expect to pay based on the number of eaters:
Number of Eaters
Estimated Cost
50
$1,500
75
$1,875
100
$2,500
150+
$3,750*
*May require an additional food truck or extended service hours.
Drop-Off Catering (Individual Boxed Meals or Buffet-Style)
Need an easy, cost-effective way to feed a crowd? Drop-off catering is the most accessible option for smaller lunch budgets while still making a big impact. Perfect for milestone celebrations, company appreciation lunches, or even daily meals, this catering style keeps employees engaged—whether food is delivered directly to desks or set up as a buffet in the conference room.
For reliable, budget-friendly drop-off catering, check out Cater2.me, a trusted provider specializing in quick, affordable meal solutions that won’t break the bank.
Estimated Costs Per Person (excluding delivery, taxes, or additional fees)
Number of Eaters
Estimated Cost
20
$400
50
$900
100
$1,800
150+
$2,700+
*Final pricing may vary depending on vendor availability and service duration.
When the occasion calls for a polished, professional setting, a formal lunch sets the right tone. Whether it’s a leadership roundtable, client presentation, board meeting, or an awards ceremony, this type of catering balances sophistication with seamless service.
Atlanta’s business culture blends Southern hospitality with modern professionalism, making a well-planned formal lunch an opportunity to impress and engage. The city’s warm climate and vibrant culinary scene mean you can incorporate seasonal, locally inspired dishes into your menu—think fresh, farm-to-table ingredients or classic Southern flavors with an upscale twist.
Since formal lunches typically involve structured seating and a refined atmosphere, they are best suited for indoor spaces where service staff, a chef, or a catering team can ensure a smooth dining experience. Whether it’s a plated meal or an elegant buffet, the right catering choice can reflect your company’s values and create a lasting impression.
Foods We Recommend
A great formal lunch should feel elevated but still be practical—no one wants to spend the rest of the day with a sauce stain on their suit. These cuisines are designed for elegant dining while keeping mess to a minimum.
A beautifully plated sushi spread adds a level of sophistication and care to any corporate gathering. Opt for a mix of classic rolls, sashimi, and vegetarian options for variety.
Not your average deli selection—think handcrafted sandwiches with high-quality meats, cheeses, and house-made spreads, all neatly portioned for easy dining.
From elegant pasta dishes to chicken parmesan and fresh bruschetta, Italian cuisine brings a comforting, upscale touch to any formal event.
The Best Catering Types for a Formal Corporate Lunch
Buffet-Style Traditional Catering
For slightly larger groups, a buffet-style setup allows for flexibility while keeping an upscale feel. This works well for company-wide conferences, executive presentations, or celebratory luncheons.
Estimated pricing for buffet catering:
Number of Eaters
Estimated Cost
40
$1,200
60
$1,800
100
$3,000
150+
$4,500+
*Final pricing may vary depending on vendor availability and service duration.
For high-stakes meetings, VIP client gatherings, or major company milestones, a private chef adds a custom, hands-on touch to the dining experience. Meals can be tailored to individual dietary preferences, ensuring a high level of service and satisfaction.
Estimated pricing for private chef service:
Number of Eaters
Estimated Cost
20
$2,000
50
$3,750
100
$7,000
150+
$9,000+
*Final pricing may vary depending on vendor availability and service duration.
3. The Corporate Retreat in Atlanta
Planning an offsite retreat, summer picnic, or festive holiday party? These out-of-office events are all about relaxation, connection, and creating great memories. With Atlanta’s mix of green spaces, rooftop views, and Southern charm, you have plenty of options to set the right atmosphere.
Unlike regular office lunches, a retreat gives you the freedom to get creative with catering. Think handheld, flavorful dishes that pair well with drinks, require little cleanup, and complement the laid-back vibe—perfect for making the most of Atlanta’s warm weather and vibrant culture.
Foods We Recommend
With coworkers playing lawn games, getting competitive in team-building challenges, or toasting to a successful year, this is the perfect time to enjoy bold flavors, nostalgic eats, and a little bit of indulgence.
Nothing says “laid-back celebration” like fresh tacos. Offer a spread of carne asada, al pastor, grilled chicken, and veggie tacos, with all the toppings and salsas to mix and match.
A corporate retreat isn’t complete without slow-smoked brisket, pulled pork, and BBQ chicken. Go classic with coleslaw and cornbread or modern with BBQ jackfruit for plant-based eaters.
For a touch of sophistication, crepes bring the perfect balance of sweet and savory. From Nutella and berries to smoked salmon and cream cheese, there’s something for every palate.
The Best Catering Types for a Corporate Retreat
Food Carts & Pop-Ups
A mobile caterer brings fresh, made-to-order meals straight to your event—whether you’re at a park, venue, or even a private space. No setup, no cleanup, just great food that keeps the energy going.
Estimated pricing:
Number of Eaters
Estimated Cost
30
$900
60
$1,200
100
$1,800
150+
$2,700+
*Final pricing may vary depending on vendor availability and service duration.
From smoky BBQ to gourmet tacos and crispy crepes, food trucks add a unique touch to your corporate retreat. They serve high volumes quickly, making them perfect for large gatherings with limited dining space.
Estimated pricing:
Number of Eaters
Estimated Cost
50
$1,500
75
$1,875
100
$2,500
150+
$3,750+
*At this size, you may need an additional food truck or extended service hours.
Bringing important clients into the office? Whether you’re mapping out the next phase of a project, launching a product, or pitching new business, a well-planned lunch sets the stage for success. In Atlanta—where hospitality meets hustle—a thoughtful meal keeps conversations flowing and leaves a lasting impression.
For roundtable discussions, VIP meetings, or seminars with key stakeholders, a catered client lunch ensures a smooth experience. Just prep your presentation, take a seat, and enjoy a no-fuss meal that reflects professionalism and Southern warmth.
Foods We Recommend
For morning meetings (around 10-11 AM), light fare like bagels, pastries, and fresh coffee are ideal. If your meeting starts after noon, opt for something heartier.
If you want to mix upscale and casual, lobster rolls are a great choice. Soft buns, creamy lobster filling, and a touch of indulgence make for an unforgettable client lunch.
The Best Catering Types for a Client Lunch
Drop-Off Catering (Individual or Buffet)
For a simple yet professional setup, drop-off catering is a no-fuss way to keep everyone well-fed. Take orders in advance or have a buffet-style spread of fresh pastries, dumplings, or plated lunches ready to go.
Estimated pricing:
Number of Eaters
Estimated Cost
20
$400
50
$900
100
$1,800
150+
$2,700
*Final pricing may vary depending on vendor availability and service duration.
When a VIP client meeting calls for a more elevated experience, a private chef offers a restaurant-quality meal right in your office. Perfect for high-stakes discussions, boardroom presentations, and major client negotiations, this option lets guests customize their meals and enjoy fine dining without leaving the conference room.
Estimated pricing:
Number of Eaters
Estimated Cost
20
$2,000
50
$3,750
100
$7,000
150+
$9,000+
*Final pricing may vary depending on vendor availability and service duration.
5. The Celebration Lunch in Atlanta
It’s time to party! Whether you’re toasting a big win, hosting a networking event, or wrapping up a successful fundraiser, a well-planned lunch brings everyone together. In Atlanta—where food and community go hand in hand—these luncheons are perfect for conferences, appreciation events, and company milestones.
Show your team some love by stepping away from the desk for a fun, social meal. Whether it’s gourmet catering, a local BBQ spread, or a food truck serving Southern favorites, this is the perfect way to break up the workday and boost morale. Bonus points if you wrap up early on a Friday—1:30 PM sounds just right!
Foods We Recommend
For a lively, energetic atmosphere, bring in bold flavors and nostalgic favorites. Whether it’s spicy Cajun dishes, creamy ice cream, or a Tex-Mex feast, these options are budget-friendly, easy to cater, and perfect for a casual yet celebratory setting.
Jamaican, Cajun, and Creole cuisine offer bold, flavorful dishes like seafood gumbo, jerk chicken, and cornbread—great for a spirited gathering.
The Best Catering Types for a Celebration Lunch
Food Trucks – Fast, Fun & Fresh
For bigger events, food trucks are an exciting way to serve a crowd. A popular, fully vetted truck can roll in, cook up fresh meals, and keep the line moving. Plus, getting outside for some sunshine adds to the celebratory vibe.
Estimated pricing:
Number of Eaters
Estimated Cost
100
$2,500
150+
$3,750+
*At this size, you may need an additional food truck or extended service hours.
Buffet catering is perfect for dishes that are best enjoyed on a plate rather than a grab-and-go container. It also encourages networking as people mingle while filling their plates. Whether you’re celebrating a merger, a successful quarter, or Administrative Professionals’ Day, a buffet lunch is a great way to say “thank you” in style.
Estimated pricing:
Number of Eaters
Estimated Cost
40
$1,200
60
$1,800
100
$3,000
150+
$4,500+
*Final pricing may vary depending on vendor availability and service duration.
Every workday should be a great one, and a good lunch can make all the difference. In a city known for its diverse food scene, keeping your team well-fed is easier than ever. Whether it’s rotating food trucks bringing variety to the office or reliable, budget-friendly catering multiple days a week, consistency is key to keeping teams fueled and happy.
No more scrambling for meal ideas—just seamless, stress-free options that fit your team’s tastes and schedule. From Southern staples to fresh, health-conscious meals, Atlanta offers plenty of ways to make lunch the highlight of the workday. You can also check out Cater2.me for dependable, cost-effective drop-off meals.
From juicy Angus beef to plant-based patties, burgers can be piled high with everything from crispy bacon and onion rings to fresh avocado and tangy BBQ sauce.
Whether it’s a classic scoop in a waffle cone or a build-your-own sundae bar, ice cream always lifts the mood and keeps energy levels high.
The Best Catering Types for a Daily Office Lunch
Drop-Off Catering (Individual or Buffet)
Need a reliable, affordable daily meal plan? Choose buffet-style for easy group dining or individual meals for a more personalized touch—all within budget.
Number of Eaters
Estimated Cost
20
$400
50
$900
100
$1,800
150+
$2,700
*Final pricing may vary depending on vendor availability and service duration.
1. How much does catering cost for a corporate lunch in Atlanta?
Catering costs for a corporate lunch in Atlanta can vary based on group size, cuisine, and service type. On average, hiring a food truck costs around $1,533, while catering packages—whether drop-off, traditional service, or food carts—typically range from $1,200 to $2,500 for larger events. For smaller gatherings, drop-off catering is a cost-effective option, with prices starting around $200 to $400 through services like Cater2.me.
Pricing is usually based on a per-person and per-hour rate. A food truck serving 100 people for a 2-hour lunch typically costs $12-$20 per person, while larger events—such as a company-wide meal for 500 employees—often require multiple trucks to keep service efficient and wait times minimal.
Atlanta’s rich culinary scene also influences pricing. Casual options like BBQ, tacos, and sandwiches tend to be more budget-friendly, while gourmet selections such as sushi, steak, or seafood come at a higher price per person. Whether the goal is a quick and easy meal or an elevated dining experience, selecting the right catering fit ensures a seamless and enjoyable lunch for everyone.
Adding drinks or desserts to your catered meal can enhance the experience and boost morale, but it will also increase the cost per person by approximately $1-$5. Whether it’s sweet treats from a local bakery, classic Southern peach cobbler, or refreshing craft sodas, Atlanta offers plenty of options to complement any meal.
Other Catering Costs
Most catered corporate lunches, especially those using food trucks, run for 2-3 hours. Extending service time beyond this window may increase the total cost. Additionally, travel fees can apply if your event is outside the caterer’s standard service area, typically 20-30 miles from their base. Some food trucks charge a per-mile fee for longer distances, so it’s worth confirming details when booking.
These estimates are based on historical Roaming Hunger catering bookings and do not include taxes or additional service fees. Planning ahead and selecting a catering option that fits your team’s needs can help keep costs predictable while ensuring a seamless and enjoyable dining experience.
2. What is a typical service time for catering in Atlanta?
Service Times Based on Catering Types
Drop-Off Catering
Food is usually delivered within one hour, making it a simple and efficient option for office lunches that need to stay on schedule.
Buffet Catering (Drop-Off or Traditional)
Expect about 30 minutes for setup and another 30 minutes for breakdown, making it easy to serve a variety of meal options without disrupting the workday.
Traditional Catering (Private Chef)
A more elevated experience, private chef catering involves 1-2 hours of meal preparation, 60-90 minutes of service, and 30-60 minutes for cleanup. This works well for executive meetings or formal client luncheons where a polished presentation matters.
Food Trucks & Food Carts
Food trucks typically provide 2-3 hours of service and can travel within a 20-minute radius at no extra charge. In Atlanta, this means easy access to everything from classic Southern BBQ to trendy international cuisine, with minimal planning on your end. Longer distances may include travel fees, so it’s always a good idea to check in advance.
3. What are the additional benefits of organizing a company lunch in Atlanta?
With remote work on the rise and office spaces seeing fluctuating attendance, a well-planned company lunch helps bring people together, strengthen connections, and make the most of your workspace. Whether your team is fully in-office or balancing hybrid schedules, regular lunch gatherings create opportunities for face-to-face interaction, trust-building, and a more engaged workplace culture.
Atlanta’s vibrant food scene makes it easy to switch things up—from classic Southern comfort food to international flavors, a thoughtfully chosen meal can turn a routine workday into something memorable. Whether it’s a casual outdoor setting like a local park or brewery, or a more formal catered lunch in the office, providing a meal on the company’s dime is a simple way to show appreciation and recognize your team’s contributions.
A shared meal is more than just food—it’s a chance to boost morale, spark new ideas, and keep the momentum going long after lunch is over.
4. What should I keep in mind when hiring a caterer for my Atlanta luncheon?
A great company lunch isn’t just about the food—it’s about making sure everyone feels included and well taken care of. From dietary preferences to seasonal considerations, a little planning goes a long way in creating a smooth and enjoyable dining experience.
Dietary Preferences
Offering a variety of meal options ensures there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, or vegan choices, checking a caterer’s menu in advance helps streamline the ordering process and keeps all attendees satisfied. Food trucks and customizable catering packages make it easy to accommodate different needs while keeping the meal exciting.
Seasonal Menus
Atlanta’s warm summers call for lighter, refreshing meals, while cooler months might make heartier comfort food a better choice. It’s always a good idea to mix things up—think a balance of savory, sweet, and drink options to keep the energy up.
And of course, the company always picks up the check—it’s a simple but powerful way to show appreciation and bring people together.
5. Can a company lunch fit into my budget?
Absolutely! Whether you’re planning a small team lunch or a large company-wide event, there are catering options to match any budget. From cost-effective drop-off, check out Cater2.me.
Food Truck & Catering Options
Food truck catering is booming, and with thousands of vendors available—including plenty right here in Atlanta—you’ll find a fit no matter your budget. For smaller groups, drop-off catering from services like Cater2.me offers an affordable, no-fuss option. If you have a bit more flexibility, food carts and food trucks provide a fun, interactive experience, while private chefs bring a refined touch for formal occasions.
Understanding Minimums
Most caterers have a required “minimum” to book an event. On average, this starts at around $1,000 for a group of 50, covering food, service, and travel time. If your budget allows for $25–$50 per person, you’ll have plenty of high-quality options to create a memorable company lunch.
Custom menus, extended service hours, and extra staffing will add to the overall cost, so it’s always a good idea to plan ahead and prioritize what matters most for your event.
6. How do I find and book a food truck or caterer for my Atlanta event?
Booking a great caterer for your company lunch doesn’t have to be time-consuming. Whether you need an easy drop-off meal or a fully catered experience, there are plenty of options to match your budget and event style. Cater2.me is a great resource for quick and reliable drop-off catering, offering a variety of choices from local Atlanta restaurants and caterers.
For a more interactive experience, Roaming Hunger connects you with top food trucks and mobile caterers in Atlanta. Once you submit your event details, we’ll gather catering packages from available vendors, including pricing and menu options tailored to your needs. From there, you can choose the best fit and create a company lunch experience that brings people together—without the extra planning stress.
Learn more about food truck catering here.
7. Why choose Roaming Hunger?
Finding the right caterer for your company lunch shouldn’t be complicated. Since 2009, Roaming Hunger has helped thousands of organizations and event planners connect with top-tier food trucks and mobile caterers. With a network of over 20,500 vendors nationwide, including a wide selection in Atlanta, we make it easy to find the perfect match for your event.
– Variety – Access hundreds of local vendors in Atlanta and beyond, offering diverse cuisine options to suit any event. – Time-Saving – Skip the back-and-forth with multiple vendors; we handle the coordination for you. – Fast & Flexible – Whether you need catering next month or tomorrow, we provide every available food truck option. – Vetted & Reliable – Our food trucks are licensed, gourmet, and proven to deliver great service. – Guaranteed Service – Every booking is backed by our 100% Roaming Hunger Service Guarantee—if a vendor can’t make it, we’ll provide a replacement or a full refund.
Still have questions? We’re always updating our FAQ! Let us know how we can help make your next company lunch easy, seamless, and stress-free.
