10 Unique and FUN Wedding Reception Menu Ideas! (Part 2/2)

Deciding on wedding reception menu ideas can be a tricky business, but it can also be a lot of fun! If you can, make your menu reflect yourselves as a couple in some way. Maybe something that reflects your culture, that you enjoy together, or simply reflects the season and location you chose to get married! 

Also, especially these days, your wedding reception menu can take on any form you want. Modern couples tend to be moving away from the traditional multi-course meal served at the table and opting for more social “grab-your-own” or “build-your-own” options. You can offer up appetizers during cocktail hour before a main dish, or go all-apps! It’s entirely up to you and your vibe as a couple. 

And don’t worry. “Wow-ing” your guests with your culinary offerings doesn’t have to be expensive as long as you get creative. If you’re still looking for some wedding reception menu ideas to inspire you, be sure to check out Part 1 of this series where we went over some basic options. Then continue here for some more of our favorites!

5. Pretzel bar
6. Kabobs on the grill
7. Make lamb a surprising option
8. Mini-tacos
9. Sushi
10. Build-your-own-bowl

5. Pretzel bar

A pretzel bar is one of the simplest and cheapest wedding reception menu ideas. All you need is pretzels and plenty of sweet and savory toppings, and you’ve got a fun and satisfying treat for your guests. Whether someone’s got a bit of a sweet tooth or is craving something a little more savory, they can choose whatever they want. Toppings and dips like hot cheese, spicy mustard, and caramel are essential, along with toppings like cinnamon, marshmallows, and sprinkles, or crunchy fried onions, “everything” seasoning, and other savory bits.

Everyone likes Pretzel Day…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wclm0bykAEE

6. Kabobs on the grill

Grilled kabobs are one of the most adaptable wedding reception menu ideas. You can use almost any combination of meats, veggies, and even fruits you can think of! Chicken or steak with onions, bell peppers, and zucchini is a classic. You can even throw in vegan options here with mushrooms and tofu! This savory classic is easy to eat on the go while your guests mingle and chat, or to enjoy at their table.

7. Make lamb a surprising option

If you’re looking for wedding reception menu ideas for an entrée meat option besides “chicken or beef,” serve lamb! Lamb is an elegant and understated meat that is a little more special than everyday beef options. Lamb is simple but significantly elevates your wedding menu and gives your guests a more surprising option.

8. Tacos

Do you want wedding reception menu ideas that will be a hit? One word: tacos. Everyone easily loves simple tacos. But tacos don’t have to be boring. Instead of the standard taco meat and toppings, get creative with some of the exciting taco fusion varieties out there! Use unexpected recipes of meat options like fried chicken or fried pork loin paired with interesting toppings and sauces like coleslaw, feta cheese, fried avocado, and aioli. Almost anything goes!

9. Sushi

Sushi is an excellent wedding reception menu idea because it’s elegant, yet so easy to serve! Guests can simply pick and choose the options they want to fill up their plate, and it’s as simple as that! Sushi is fresh and light, yet also filling. And it’s a higher-end treat, so it works great for a special occasion. Just make sure to have some vegetarian/vegan options like California rolls and vegetable rolls for those who need them!

10. Build-your-own-bowl

Lastly, one of the most fun wedding reception menu ideas is to create a “build-your-own-bowl” station. Think Chipotle, but also get more creative. You can offer a standard taco/burrito bowl, but you can have other options, too! You could include salad and salad toppings, or go breakfast-themed with eggs, bacon, and potatoes, or ingredients for an acai bowl. Let your guests mix and match and have fun coming up with something unique on their own!

Love this content and want more? Read more about wedding planning on our blog. Are you helping to plan a wedding and still need to nail down a venue? Give us a call to schedule a tour and see why Jennings Trace might be your perfect place.