Pick dishes that survive the commute
- Pasta or grain salads
- Wraps or sliders, assembled at work
- Slow cooker dishes, plugged in on arrival
- Cookies and bars, already cut
- Dips with chips or crackers
Plan around the office kitchen
One microwave and a small fridge can become a bottleneck at noon. Ask for a mix of hot and cold dishes, keep a couple of slow cookers going, and set the potluck a little after the usual lunch rush if you can.
Make it easy to join without cooking
Some people do not cook, and some cannot bring food on the train. List plates, cups, napkins, drinks and ice on the sign-up sheet, so everyone can take part.
Themes that work at work
- A chili or soup cook-off, with a small prize
- A taco or baked potato bar
- A dessert day for a birthday or milestone
- A cultural potluck where people share a dish from home
Allergies and labels
Ask everyone to label their dish with the main allergens: nuts, dairy, eggs, gluten and shellfish. Keep a stack of cards and a pen on the table for anyone who forgets.
Timing and cleanup
Send the sign-up link two weeks ahead and a reminder a few days before. Put cleanup on the sheet too, so the same people are not stuck with it every time.
Including remote coworkers
If part of the team works remotely, consider a video call during lunch, or a separate treat sent to them, so the event does not leave anyone out.
Ready to plan yours?
Start with a ready-made list, then share one link. Guests don't need an account.
Start an office potluck sheet