From Boardroom to Bonfire: Coastal Catering for Corporate Events with a Twist

Corporate events don’t have to mean stiff seating charts and predictable buffets. On the Monterey Peninsula, there’s room for creativity, comfort, and a little coastal flair—whether it’s a client appreciation dinner, quarterly celebration, or end-of-year team gathering. A change of scenery, paired with thoughtful catering and seasonal inspiration, can completely transform the way teams connect and collaborate.

Coastal Roots Hospitality (Tarpy's, Montrio, Rio Grill and Coastal Roots Events & Catering) specializes in helping businesses host events that go beyond expectations. With access to the region’s best venues, locally inspired menus, and full-service coordination, we bring professionalism and personality to every occasion.

Why Coastal-Style Corporate Events Work

A Fresh Approach to Team Building and Engagement

After a year (or quarter) of Zoom calls and meeting room sessions, an outdoor event or off-site dinner can reset the tone for a team. Gathering in a beautiful space, sharing local food, and enjoying relaxed conversation creates stronger connections—and happier teams.

Coastal-inspired corporate events encourage people to show up fully, leave stress behind, and experience the best of what Monterey has to offer.

Impressing Clients and Partners with Style

A well-executed corporate event shows attention to detail, care, and commitment to quality—values that extend far beyond the table. Whether hosting VIP clients, strategic partners, or industry guests, Monterey’s coastal charm paired with refined hospitality leaves a lasting impression.

Creative Venues Beyond the Boardroom

Beachfront and Blufftop Spaces

Imagine a sunset happy hour on the sand, a beachside bonfire with passed appetizers, or a catered cocktail reception overlooking the Pacific. Monterey offers stunning coastal venues ideal for casual-yet-classy gatherings.

Perfect for:

1. Informal networking mixers
2. Celebration dinners
3. Team recognition events

Vineyards and Gardens

Wine country elegance meets relaxed California vibes at local vineyards and garden estates. These venues offer scenic backdrops, versatile layouts, and a sense of elevated simplicity.

Perfect for:

1. Client appreciation lunches
2. Product launches
3. Holiday parties with a twist

Historic Properties and Cultural Spaces

Want something with character? Consider historic homes, museums, or art galleries. These locations add a layer of storytelling and charm that feels distinctive and curated.

Perfect for:

1. Leadership retreats
2. Donor or board dinners
3. Midsize gatherings with impact

Coastal Roots works closely with many of Monterey’s premier venues and can help find the right setting based on your group’s size, goals, and brand.

Coastal Catering Ideas That Raise the Bar

Seasonal Menus with Local Flavor

Corporate doesn’t have to mean boring. Our catering menus highlight the best of the season while accommodating various dietary preferences and service styles.

Popular late-September selections include:

Starters:

1. Mini Dungeness crab cakes with lemon aioli
2. Caprese skewers with heirloom tomatoes and basil
3. Wild mushroom tartlets with truffle oil

Entrées:

1. Grilled salmon with citrus beurre blanc
2. Herb-marinated tri-tip with rosemary jus
3. Autumn vegetable risotto with shaved parmesan

Sides:

1. Roasted sweet potatoes with smoked paprika
2. Brussels sprouts with pancetta and apple cider glaze
3. Fall greens with pears, goat cheese, and toasted walnuts

Desserts:

1. Pumpkin mousse cups with ginger crumble
2. Mini apple galettes with cinnamon whipped cream
3. Chocolate tarts with sea salt and olive oil drizzle

Menus can be served as plated meals, buffet spreads, or passed small bites depending on the flow of the event.

Beverage Service That Sparks Conversation

Whether your team prefers wine pairings, seasonal cocktails, or non-alcoholic spritzers, the right drink list adds style and energy to the event.

Some favorites:

1. Signature cocktail bar with a name inspired by your company or campaign
2. Local wines from the Santa Lucia Highlands and Carmel Valley
3. Sparkling water stations with herbs, fruit, and house-made syrups
4. Custom mocktail pairings for daytime or inclusive events

Our bar team works with you to create the right mood—celebratory, relaxed, or professional—through every pour.

Ideas to Add a Monterey Twist

Host a Beach Bonfire Mixer

Keep it casual and coastal with a twilight beach gathering complete with fire pits, cozy blankets, s’mores stations, and craft beer tastings. Add live acoustic music and you’ve got a vibe that’s equal parts relaxed and memorable.

Bring in Interactive Food Stations

Turn the dining experience into a conversation starter with chef-attended stations or themed tasting tables.

Examples include:

1. Local oyster shucking station
2. Street taco bar with house-made salsas
3. Wine and cheese pairings from Monterey-area artisans
4. Mini dessert tastings with fall flavors

Make It Purposeful

Pair your event with a cause—like highlighting a local nonprofit or participating in a giving campaign. Coastal Roots has years of experience supporting community-focused events and can help incorporate mission-driven elements that align with your brand values.

Planning Made Simple

Coastal Roots Events & Catering offers full-service event support—from menu development and staffing to rentals, coordination, and setup. We understand the nuances of corporate events and work to ensure everything aligns with your goals, timeline, and brand standards.

Our process includes:

1. Custom proposals and budget-friendly options
2. Coordination with venues and vendors
3. Menu tastings and dietary accommodations
4. Professional, polished service on event day

Time to Take It Outside the Office

A fresh setting, delicious food, and thoughtful hospitality can completely transform the way your team or guests experience a corporate event. Monterey provides the perfect canvas—and Coastal Roots brings it all to life with flavor, warmth, and attention to detail.

Ready to plan your next company event with a coastal twist? Contact Coastal Roots Hospitality in Monterey, CA, and let’s create a memorable gathering your team will be talking about long after the last toast.