How to plan the perfect team meal: 14 interesting ideas
Posted: Tue Jan 07, 2025 4:04 am
Nothing brings a team together more than good food and good company.
Team lunches are more than just a communal meal—they're a chance to break the boredom of routine, celebrate wins, and create a culture that helps everyone feel connected.
Whether it's to mark a milestone on a project or just an excuse to get away from their desks, a shared meal allows everyone to relax, bond, and recharge.
70 % of employees say that shared meals help create stronger (internet) connections. That means 7 out of 10 employees want to spend time in person with their colleagues, in the midst of the boom in remote work!
So let's explore some effective team-building lunch ideas that go beyond pizza on the meeting table. Make team meals something that all team members look forward to.
Why are team lunches important?
Ever since humans began eating together, food has been as much about culture as it is about biology.
Michael Pollan, In Defense of Food: A Manifesto of an Eater
Sharing bread is an age-old tradition. And singapore number data somewhere in humanity’s collective consciousness, that longing for (internet) connection is still strong. That’s why team lunches are important: they offer a relaxed setting where colleagues can unwind, connect, and… get to know each other outside of their typical formal roles (while eating for free!).
They help break down silos and encourage open communication, making collaboration in the office easier.
A team lunch full of energy:
Builds trust and connection : Sharing a meal in an informal setting encourages team members to see each other as peers. This familiarity fosters trust and understanding, paving the way for smoother collaboration in the workplace.
Boosts morale and motivation : A team that feels appreciated is more likely to be engaged and motivated. Team lunches are a fun way for employees to feel valued and recognized, boosting team morale.
Encourages cross-departmental interaction : Often, employees work within their departments and are cooped up in their cubicles. Team lunches allow them to chat with colleagues who work in other areas of the company, breaking down communication barriers and strengthening workplace relationships.
Encourages creativity and new ideas : Informal interactions can lead to unexpected brainstorming and new perspectives. Removing the “office” context can allow creative ideas to flow as team members freely share their thoughts.
Relieves stress : Getting away from work allows everyone to recharge their batteries. A fun team lunch can reduce stress, increase job satisfaction, and leave everyone feeling refreshed and ready to tackle projects with renewed focus.
Of course, organizing something that everyone will love isn't always easy: everyone has an opinion, and some people may just be there for the free food. But if you're willing to dodge the dreaded "anything goes" responses and experiment, this section is for you.
Fun fact: DoorDash offers a platform for companies to host team meals . With options like “taco Tuesdays” or catered lunches, DoorDash helps companies maintain camaraderie among remote teams.
Team lunches are more than just a communal meal—they're a chance to break the boredom of routine, celebrate wins, and create a culture that helps everyone feel connected.
Whether it's to mark a milestone on a project or just an excuse to get away from their desks, a shared meal allows everyone to relax, bond, and recharge.
70 % of employees say that shared meals help create stronger (internet) connections. That means 7 out of 10 employees want to spend time in person with their colleagues, in the midst of the boom in remote work!
So let's explore some effective team-building lunch ideas that go beyond pizza on the meeting table. Make team meals something that all team members look forward to.
Why are team lunches important?
Ever since humans began eating together, food has been as much about culture as it is about biology.
Michael Pollan, In Defense of Food: A Manifesto of an Eater
Sharing bread is an age-old tradition. And singapore number data somewhere in humanity’s collective consciousness, that longing for (internet) connection is still strong. That’s why team lunches are important: they offer a relaxed setting where colleagues can unwind, connect, and… get to know each other outside of their typical formal roles (while eating for free!).
They help break down silos and encourage open communication, making collaboration in the office easier.
A team lunch full of energy:
Builds trust and connection : Sharing a meal in an informal setting encourages team members to see each other as peers. This familiarity fosters trust and understanding, paving the way for smoother collaboration in the workplace.
Boosts morale and motivation : A team that feels appreciated is more likely to be engaged and motivated. Team lunches are a fun way for employees to feel valued and recognized, boosting team morale.
Encourages cross-departmental interaction : Often, employees work within their departments and are cooped up in their cubicles. Team lunches allow them to chat with colleagues who work in other areas of the company, breaking down communication barriers and strengthening workplace relationships.
Encourages creativity and new ideas : Informal interactions can lead to unexpected brainstorming and new perspectives. Removing the “office” context can allow creative ideas to flow as team members freely share their thoughts.
Relieves stress : Getting away from work allows everyone to recharge their batteries. A fun team lunch can reduce stress, increase job satisfaction, and leave everyone feeling refreshed and ready to tackle projects with renewed focus.
Of course, organizing something that everyone will love isn't always easy: everyone has an opinion, and some people may just be there for the free food. But if you're willing to dodge the dreaded "anything goes" responses and experiment, this section is for you.
Fun fact: DoorDash offers a platform for companies to host team meals . With options like “taco Tuesdays” or catered lunches, DoorDash helps companies maintain camaraderie among remote teams.