The bat or bar mitzvah (depending on gender) is a religious initiation ceremony for Jewish children coming of age, finally eligible to attend in public worship — and what an event it is.
Although many years ago, only bar mitzvahs were celebrated, the bat mitzvah turned 100 years old in 2022, leaving Jewish families these days with double the celebrations!
If you have a bar or bat mitzvah coming up, you might be thinking about food and drink ideas. Read on to find the perfect snacks and refreshments for your event.
1. Mac and Cheese Bar
It can be hard to find both kid and adult-friendly catering for family celebrations, so how about a mac and cheese bar? Adults can choose to add more sophisticated toppings to their food, whereas kids can have it plain — and everyone wins.
2. Sliders
Another classic food that wins with both adults and kids alike at events is sliders. You can choose various toppings and even have a plant-based version available if some of your guests prefer to avoid meat.
Sliders are also great finger food, so there’s no need to worry about plates.
3. Tacos
Another great finger food is tacos, and there are some amazing Mexican restaurants that can provide you with authentic stuff.
You can have a variety of toppings or even choose a make-your-own taco stand where people can customize their food to their tastes.
You can also have other Mexican foods to go along with it, like chips and salsa as an appetizer or side.
4. Chicken Nuggets
Around 13-22% of children are picky eaters, and while it’s good to encourage them out of their comfort zone, sometimes it’s easier at a party to let them have what they like!
Provide chicken nuggets or tenders, and you won’t have to worry about there being something there that your child will like.
5. Pizza
Pizza is, perhaps, the most popular finger food, and you can’t go wrong by ordering some in. Some wood-fired cheese slices will go down a treat. Or pick some more adventurous toppings from Hawaiian to buffalo chicken.
For the best results, give everyone a choice of toppings.
6. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Another classic, try some American cheese between bread for those young fussy eaters at parties or go all out with some gourmet melts for the adults.
There are very few people who don’t love a good grilled cheese!
7. A Pasta Bar
If you want to move away from the cheese and unhealthy options, how about a pasta bar? Many catering companies can provide different options, so those who want a more indulgent flavor can have what they want, and others can choose a healthier option.
8. A Salad Bar
If you know many healthy adults are attending your child’s bar or bat mitzvah, why not have a salad bar?
These create another great build-your-own option where people can make food to their tastes.
9. Mashed Potato Bar
Another option for picking your toppings is a mashed potato bar. There are almost endless options for customization at this one, and it’s so easy to make — plus, plenty of companies can attend to your catering needs with this one since it’s a common dish!
10. Omelet Bar
Are you a fan of breakfast for dinner? If you know that your guests are too, consider creating an omelet bar instead of traditional dinner options.
11. S’mores on Sticks
No bar or bat mitzvah is complete without some sweet treats, so about s’mores on sticks? The gooey combination of chocolate and marshmallow will surely be a hit with people of all ages, and you could even let people roast their own.
12. Cotton Candy
For more of a fun carnival atmosphere, try some cotton candy! You could get some in different colors to create a bright and bold dessert that the kids will love — and the adults too, even if they aren’t as outwardly enthusiastic.
13. Cupcakes
Cupcakes are incredible finger foods and one of the classic party ideas for a reason. They always work!
You could even decorate them with messages for your guests or have a variety of different flavors for them to enjoy.
14. Popcorn
Popular as a snack with kids and adults, vegans, and meat eaters, popcorn is an amazing quick snack that people will love to munch on all night.
You can have plain salted popcorn and offer butter as an optional topping, or you can have some gourmet flavors if you’re aiming to impress.
15. Ice-Cream
Another dessert that’s a classic for a reason, everyone loves ice cream. Let people scoop their own and have optional toppings they can add, such as:
- Crushed oreo
- Chocolate chips
- M&Ms
- Fruit
- Gummy bears
If you want to be extra considerate, you can offer a dairy-free option, like sorbet.
16. A Candy Station
If you want an extra simple dessert, consider a candy station where people can pick and mix some candy. Get various options, from chocolate to gummy candy, where kids and adults alike can pile up their bags.
17. A Lemonade Bar
If you’re looking for drinks station ideas, you can’t go wrong with a lemonade bar. Especially in the hotter states or the height of summer — or even just because there’s been a lot of activity — your guests will thank you for the cool refreshment.
18. Beer and Wine
For alcohol, beer and wine are always the easiest choices, and most guests love one or the other. Provide red and white wine and classic beer choices to keep your adult guests happy.
19. A Cocktail Bar
If you want to go all out with your offerings, a cocktail bar will go down a storm with those of legal age to drink. Mix up some classics like margaritas and watch people be impressed!
20. A Mocktail Bar
If you have a lot of guests who don’t drink, a lot of children who want to feel included, or you simply don’t want alcohol at the party, you can all have the extravagance of a cocktail bar — just without the alcohol.
There are plenty of mocktail recipes available online to peruse and choose from.
You Can’t Go Wrong With These Food and Drink Ideas
As long as you keep things kosher, bear your guests in mind, and make sure the food is easy to eat at a party, you can’t go wrong. Consider these food and drink ideas and have an amazing time at your child’s bar or bat mitzvah.
Are you looking for Mexican catering in New Hyde Park, New York? Contact us today, and let’s make your event unforgettable.
Level Your Mitzvah Up Today!
At K. Pacho, we provide premier planning and catering services for a variety of events, parties, and family celebrations. Looking for a place that offers a beautiful venue and a large variety of food options for your next celebration?