75 Best Wedding Food Ideas for Your Big Day

TLDR:

• According to our First Look Report, more couples are prioritizing their menus and accommodating specialty diets.
• Our 51 ideas let you get creative with interesting desserts, buffet stations, and plated meals.
• Select a menu based on your budget, food needs, and your caterer's advice.

Ready for lots of wedding food ideas?

Are you coming up short on wedding food ideas? Your menu is one of the trickiest decisions you’ll make during the wedding planning process. Therefore, make sure to ask your venue about any limitations they may have before you decide. Some venues use in-house catering, others charge a fee to bring in outside vendors, and some have a preferred vendors list that you will need to choose from.

Once you find out all the details, make a list of you and your sweetheart’s favorite dishes and take it to your caterer. They will be able to help you blend in your faves with their expertise to create a wedding menu that is delicious and unique to your event.

To get an idea about what your guests would like to eat, send options in your wedding invitations and give your caterer an accurate count. Whether you want to include classics like chicken or beef, or serve up something unique like vegan burgers, these wedding food ideas are sure to inspire.

A peek into Zola's First Look Report

Curious how much other couples are thinking about their wedding food ideas and options? Take a look at what our 7000 surveyed couples said in our First Look Report:

• 28.54% are willing to splurge on catering.
• A mere 3.14% are considering making cake and desserts a spending priority.
• Concerning personalizing their big day, 21.82% of couples want catering that suits their likes and dietary preferences.
• When couples were asked if they could change or update anything about their wedding planning journey, 32.09% said they wanted to get rid of the diet culture surrounding weddings.

Wedding buffet ideas

One of the biggest trends in wedding receptions is the inclusion of interactive food stations during the cocktail hour or as the main course. These buffet tables can be as casual as a popcorn bar, or as intricate as a grazing station filled with fine meats and cheeses. The sky's the limit with these wedding buffet ideas. Choose the best examples that fit with your wedding theme, and use them as inspiration for your interactive food stations.

1. Brunch bar

Whether your wedding is happening earlier in the day or you and your partner are big fans of brinner (breakfast for dinner), a brunch spread is sure to make your guests happy. Include savory options like biscuits and gravy alongside sweet jams and fruits so there is something for everyone. This is a buffet-style experience for your guests that is a crowd pleaser.

2. Popcorn table

Serve this classic snack with a twist during your cocktail hour or as a late-night snack. Your guests can happily munch away on this finger food while mingling (and your pocketbook will thank you!).

3. Ice cream bar

You scream, I scream, we all scream for—well, you know how it goes. At the end of the night, there is no better way to treat your guests than with an ice cream station. Add a special touch with some fun toppings like hot fudge, sprinkles, or candy.

4. Waffle table

Waffle buffets are the perfect option for weddings at any time of the day. Add a few breakfast options for early celebrations or the iconic fried chicken and waffles pairing for evening events. Waffles are definitely a unique, unexpected wedding food.

5. Pizza platter

What better way to celebrate with your amor than to serve pizza pie? This easy wedding buffet idea is a crowd favorite and a great way to cater to a variety of tastes. You can serve classics like pepperoni and cheese, or you can get creative with vegan and vegetarian options.

6. Taco table

Taco buffets are a great way to serve crowds of any size. Make sure to combine classic favorites, like guacamole and pico to gallo, with unique additions, like mushrooms and mango, to make your spread tasty and memorable. Your guests will love it!

7. Donut station

Donut walls and spreads have grown in popularity over the years for their fun flavors and, of course, their Insta-worthiness. This buffet idea is perfect for couples who prefer wedding cake alternatives. Add gluten free options, too.

8. Salad bar

A salad bar is a fabulous wedding buffet idea for all the veggie lovers out there. Place your basics, such as spinach and romaine, alongside toppings like rice, fruits, vegetables, and dressings. Having healthy menu options is a must.

9. Grazing table

If you and your partner enjoy the finer things in life, what better way to celebrate than with charcuterie? These giant meat and cheese spreads have mesmerized wedding guests for the past few years and are sure to be a hit.

10. Bagel buffet

This one of our wedding food ideas gives your guests the freedom to create their perfect snack to tempt their taste buds. Whether they love lox or prefer peanut butter, there is sure to be something for everyone at the bagel bar.

Wedding entree ideas

Whether you want to serve a plated meal or buffet style food, the entree is the toughest decision. The best way to go is to choose two or three main entrees and let your guests decide for themselves. This will allow them to enjoy their favorite item and cater to any dietary preferences that your guest might have.

11. Steak and salad

Steak and salad is the perfect option for summer weddings when you don’t want to weigh your guests down with heavy sides. Talk to your caterer about infusing fruit in the salad or dressing for a pop of color and flavor at your food stations.

12. Kebabs

Kebabs are convenient entrees If you’re hosting an outdoor wedding. These tasty skewers allow your guests to enjoy their meal on the go during summer weddings. Try including a vegan skewer with mushrooms in place of beef or chicken to give your guests meatless options.

13. Fried chicken

Fried chicken is a staple at weddings, especially in the south. This tasty entree is sure to fill your friends and family and remind them of home. Fried chicken is also great if you intend to serve each table family style.

14. Shrimp

This seafood favorite can be paired with various sides to create the perfect wedding plate any time of the year. Try adding rice, pasta, or grits for a southern twist on your dining experience.

15. Salmon

Fish has been a wedding classic for years. Customize the glaze based on the season for a fresh and unique twist. Try a bright lemon garlic glaze in the summer or something savory like a red wine mushroom sauce for the colder months.

16. Steak

This wedding classic is perfect for treating your guests. Talk with your caterer about different options for choosing the cut. Some timeless choices include tenderloin, t-bone, rib-eye, and New York strip.

17. Lobster

If you want to serve your guests the best of the best, offer a lobster option. Place the lobster atop a bed of risotto or serve with butter on your wedding day. Make sure to include a second choice for those who are allergic to shellfish.

18. Lasagna

This Italian classic is perfect for weddings in colder months. One of the best parts about lasagna is the easy swaps your caterer can make to offer a vegan zucchini option so everyone can take part. Include varieties for all of your guests to enjoy.

19. Spaghetti squash

These amazing veggies can turn into a gluten-free pasta dish in under an hour. Ask your caterer what creative wedding food ideas they have for these veggies. Whether you serve spaghetti or chicken parmesan, your guests are sure to be thrilled.

20. Lamb

If you would like to serve your guests a nice entree and are tired of beef and chicken, try to incorporate lamb into your feast. Whether you choose to pair it with shrimp or veggies, this unique option will impress your guests.

Wedding finger food ideas

When you’re mingling at weddings, you just feel better with something to munch on. Whether you plan to serve hors d'oeuvres during cocktail hour or throughout the night, your guests will appreciate each bite. Here are a few crowd favorites that will keep your guests happy all night long.

21. Caprese cups

If you and your partner plan to feed your guests Italian cuisine, then these Caprese cups are the perfect savory appetizer for cocktail hour. Your guests can carry their snacks in one hand while talking to friends and family.

22. Bruschetta

Consider serving bruschetta during down times for a quick and easy appetizer. The options are endless for these bite-sized snacks, so speak with your caterer about their specialties for wedding receptions. They will help you decide on the perfect ingredients.

23. Sliders

Sliders are everything you love about hamburgers and sandwiches all in one bite. Offer a variety of meat and vegetarian options to choose from so all of your guests can enjoy these snacks.

24. Mini tacos

Tiny tacos will be the talk of any event. They’re delicious and adorable — what more could you ask for? Serve these tacos with traditional toppings, or get creative and include dessert toppings to mix things up.

25. Veggie roll-ups

For some lighter fare, mix in some fresh vegetable apps. Your guests will love popping these zucchini roll-ups in their mouths in between heavier options. You could also try using summer squash or cucumber for some variety.

26. Meatballs

For a simple and cheap wedding food ideas option, talk to your caterer about including meatballs in your event. Choose among beef, pork, turkey, or falafel (or some of each), and don’t forget a tasty sauce on top.

27. French fries

This popular appetizer gives guests a savory and filling bite that is full of flavor. Put your fries in cones for easy handling and offer unique dips like aioli, queso, or flavored mustard.

28. Spring rolls

Veggie-filled spring rolls are a great vegetarian option for cocktail hour and are mess-free so guests can grab and go without a thought. Make sure to include mini cups of sweet and sour sauce for guests who want it.

29. Flatbread

Whether you’re in love with the classic margarita flatbread, or you prefer sweet balsamic and chicken toppings, there is sure to be a slice for everyone. If you can’t choose, include a little bit of everything. The more, the merrier!

30. Grilled cheese bites

Between the crunchy bread and melty cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic. Pair these tiny sammies with shot glasses of tomato soup for a match made in heaven. These cheesy bites will capture the hearts (and the stomachs) of your guests.

Cheap wedding food ideas

Everyone wants to serve their guests the best of the best, but sometimes steak and lobster just aren’t in the budget. Just because you can’t spend much money on your catering doesn't mean you have to settle for boring meals. Use these ideas as inspiration and work with your caterer to come up with the perfect menu.

31. Fried chicken and gravy

The best part about serving southern comfort food at your wedding is that it is filling and will require less food than others meals. Fried chicken and gravy is not only cost-effective, it’s delicious. The creamy gravy and crispy chicken are a match made in heaven.

32. Brisket

BBQ is also a fantastic choice if your catering budget is limited. Whether you’re hosting a backyard wedding or ballroom bash, your guests will enjoy this menu that’s tasty and hearty.

33. Soup

Soup is the perfect way to warm up your guests if you’re planning a winter wedding. Talk to your caterer about including a meat-heavy soup like a stew, a cream-based soup like broccoli and cheddar, and a brothy option like chicken noodle.

34. Tacos

Tacos are a crowd favorite and cost-effective. The perfect combination! Set up your taco station with unique ingredients like mushrooms or mango to make it unforgettable.

35. Spaghetti

If you and your honey love to celebrate with pasta, serve your guests spaghetti or alfredo. These options are filling, delicious, and are made of cost-effective ingredients. Serve your dish with a side of garlic bread for the final touch.

36. Burgers

Nowadays, many large weddings have pivoted to intimate backyard celebrations. With the change in size came different menu options. If you’re itching for the backyard wedding of your dreams, lean into the theme with burgers. Don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings.

37. Vegan burgers

If your friends and family would rather swap veggies for meat, vegan burgers can be even more cost-effective than beef burgers. Try portobello mushrooms in place of a beef patty or costly, plant-based meat.

38. Fajitas

Similarly to tacos, fajitas are a great option for couples on a budget. The ingredients are affordable and filling, and guests can customize their meals to fit their diet. Make sure to include a mix of meats, vegetables, and other toppings to keep it interesting.

39. Chili

Whether you’re on team beans or team no beans in your chili, everyone loves to love this hearty meal. Serve chili with baked potatoes, bratwurst, or over rice for a low-cost and yummy meal.

40. Fish and chips

If your heart is set on serving fish at your nuptials, consider offering fish and chips. It’s substantially cheaper than serving salmon or cod, and with a French fries and some lemon, you can serve your guests a plate of comfort food.

Wedding dessert ideas

Traditional wedding desserts consist of wedding cakes or cupcakes. While these classics are still a staple in many weddings, couples are starting to use the dessert table to showcase their favorite sweets instead. Whether you and your honey want to keep it classy or think outside of the box, these wedding dessert ideas will be the talk of the event.

41. Wedding cake

Wedding cakes are just as tasty as they are beautiful, and they’re a wedding staple for a reason. If you and your partner want to serve wedding cake, choose flavors and icings that compliment your theme. Pre-cut the cake for easy serving.

42. Cookies

Cookies are a great choice for wedding desserts because you can customize them to fit your big day perfectly. Add edible flowers for a romantic theme or use your alma mater logo to excite the super fans.

43. Cupcakes

Regular or mini cupcakes are another popular dessert idea. These desserts give your guests all the flavor of a traditional wedding cake in a portable package. Cupcakes also allow you to choose multiple flavor options if you can’t pick your favorite.

44. Popsicles

Popsicles are an ideal dessert for hot summer weddings to help your guests cool down. Try experimenting with unique flavors and ingredients like the edible flowers and liquor in these boozy pops!

45. Hand pies

Many couples choose to celebrate with pie instead of cake, but serving guests the flaky dessert can get messy. Hand pies solve that problem by containing all of the fruity goodness in a neat package.

46. Mini pies

If you would rather keep the classic pie shape instead, you can serve mini versions to your guests. These adorable pies are just as tasty as they are cute.

47. Pot de crémes

These sweets are a favorite for a reason. They have all the flavor that you love in pudding and custard, packed in small pots for convenient and adorable service. Try garnishing with flowers or fruits to add a special

48. Mini cheesecakes

Bite-sized cheesecakes give your guests the perfect amount of dessert with a beautiful presentation. Ask your caterer about tailoring these for your wedding season by opting for seasonal fruits.

49. Macarons

These tasty, French treats make your wedding day feel extra fancy. Arrange your macarons in an appealing way to make them look just as wonderful as they taste.

50. Strawberry shortcake

Strawberry shortcake is an enjoyable summertime sweet during the hot months. The combination of shortcake, cream, and berries is the stuff of dreams. Serve these desserts in personal cups for a beautiful display and easy grabbing.

51. Candy

If baked goods aren’t your jam, set up a candy bar for dessert. Include your and your sweetheart’s favorite options and lay out some bags for your guests to fill. All of the kids (and the kids at heart) will be thrilled with this unique set up.

Ask the expert: What are the most popular wedding food ideas?

When couples want to know what's on trend right now, having an expert weigh in is a must. That's why Zola asked Stephanie Ozcan, who is the managing partner of Ferah Catering & Events, to tell us what couples are currently swooning over for their wedding receptions. Here's what she had to say with photos she provided of Ferah in action.

52. Bacon-wrapped stuffed dates with chipotle aioli

Ozcan says, "This is by far, Ferah's best selling appetizer for both catering clients and our restaurant guests." She also says that couples describe it as the perfect combination with sweet dates, creamy goat cheese, crispy bacon, and chipotle aioli with a slight kick. "These bite-size hors d'oeurves perfectly capture founder, Chef Burak's 'Tex-Med' cuisine: modern Mediterranean with a texan Twist which he created in 2016," she added.

53. Spicy atom dip shooters with crispy pita bread

"Atom dip is a popular meze (cold dip) from Turkey that is included with dinner at many local seafood restaurants," says Ozcan. "It features labneh (thick, creamy yogurt), dried chiles, and butter for a truly complex and flavorful bite. Paired with crispy pita bread, it is a popular appetizer for cocktail hour for clients who are not afraid to spice things up." Sounds like a delicious start to a reception.

54. Risotto station

Risotto is a time-consuming dish to make, but it's one that can be tailor-made live by your caterer. "Ferah is chef-owned, and our clients love seeing chefs in action during their reception," says Ozcan. "The risotto station allows guests to enjoy the freshest risotto with toppings of their choice." Ozcan added that Ferah uses a risotto base that is vegetarian and gluten-free, and toppings range from vegetables and herbs to meats and other proteins. "This is a very inclusive option for guests with a variety of dietary preferences," she adds.

55. Turkish coffee station

Because Chef Burak Ozcan, Ferah's founder and co-owner, grew up in Turkey, he enjoys sharing his love of the country with others, and Turkish coffee is at the heart of it all. "As an action station, it features a seasoned Turkish coffee maker plus the traditional Turkish delight," says Stephanie Ozcan. "This is a fun, and interactive touch to kick a wedding reception into high gear with a strong caffeine boost." Many couples add a coffee station to complement their dessert stations.

56. Drunken charcuterie display

Want to mix bar with buffet? This idea is perfect! "This twist on the traditional charcuterie and cheese display is a unique concept that Chef Burak started when he started out as a chef at five-star resorts across the Mediterranean region," says Ozcan. "In addition to the selection of cured meats and international cheese typically found in a charcuterie spread, a spice and liquor pairing is included for each cheese." How does it work? "Guests dip the cheese in the liquor first and then the spice. It creates a very unique and flavorful pairing experience," clarifies Ozcan.

Wedding food ideas from Zola couples

We recently polled our Zola couples on social media about what they're serving at their wedding receptions. Here are the ideas we loved most.

Area-specific reception food ideas

57. Mini tomato pies for an appetizer, which is a very traditional Southern dish. ~ Hartley, Charleston, SC
58. Mini key lime pies, perfect for a south Florida wedding.
59. Tostilocos, which is a crowd favorite in SoCal.
60. Crab dip for a Baltimore wedding. ~ Cecily, Baltimore, MD
61. Churro Mickey waffles while getting married at Disney.

Wedding food ideas for dietary needs

62. Panang curry because it's gluten-free and vegan.
63. Morocon vegetarian cakes for vegetarian friends with spice.
64. Coconut spiced mashed sweet potatoes for our vegan friends.

Other ideas from Zola couples

65. Soft pretzels after "tying the knot."
66. A late night snack of pretzel bites if you love a brewery and pretzel date. ~ Megan, Denver, CO
67. Mash-tini bar with mashed potatoes in a martini glass with lots of toppings.
68. Lamb lollipops for cocktail hour.
69. Charctuerie grazing table with autumn flavors if you're on a budget.
70. Apple cider donuts for a fall wedding.
71. French toast sticks as a late night bite for fun and to soak up cocktails. ~ Paige, Austin, TX
72. Crab rangoons (a family recipe of our venue owner and delicious.)
73. Chicken and waffles for a Sunday brunch wedding.
74. Mini fried chicken sliders on biscuits drizzled w/honey as late night bites.
75. Live taco station at midnight.

Deciding on the perfect fare for your big day can be stressful. Make the process as easy as possible and discuss your ideas with your caterer to come up with a good list of options. Once you get your wedding invitation responses back, you’ll be able to give your caterer a final headcount and they’ll help you prepare an amazing menu for your big day.

Need more help from Zola? Peruse our extensive expert advice section to answer all of your burning wedding planning questions. You can browse by topic, so from getting engaged to having a lasting, healthy relationship, we're here!