25+ Menu Ideas Perfect For an Outdoor Summer Wedding

Photo: Longbrook Photography

Seafood Station

A raw bar with live oyster shucking. "Everyone loves a raw bar, but you can add another layer of fun with live oyster shuckers." —Lisa Jaroscak, Owner & Creative Director, Elegante Weddings & Events

1. Late-Night Snacks

2. Serve a sweet treat as a late night dance floor snack. "We love passed ice cream sandwiches on the dance floor." —Lisa Jaroscak, Owner & Creative Director, Elegante Weddings & Events

1. Reflect your culture through your food. "Late-night snacks aren't just fun, they're a flavorful way to reflect the couple’s cultural roots and shared story. Think true American gourmet burgers and fries, street-style tacos, savory empanadas, or authentic Sicilian pizza. These bites bring people together and offer a delicious glimpse into the couple’s background and favorite comfort foods, perfect for summer weddings where the vibe is laid-back, lively, and full of personality." —Ryan Van Tuyl, Founder, Burt's Burgers

3. Cold treats

1. Alcohol-infused popsicles. "Boozy popsicles are a crowd favorite.  Fruity, delicious and a little dangerous!” - Lisa Jaroscak, Owner & Creative Director, Elegante Weddings & Events

2. Popsicles. "Cool things down with playful details like popsicles during cocktail hour or an ice cream sundae station after dinner." —Katrina Lee, Head of Client Coordination, Crossed Keys Estate

3. Custom gelato cart. "Enjoy something sweet on a hot night with a customized gelato cart that adds to your wedding day aesthetic." —Lisa Jaroscak, Owner & Creative Director, Elegante Weddings & Events

4. Ice cream sundae bar. "Keep it classic with chocolate, vanilla and strawberry, or get creative with fun flavors — Banana Bourbon, Saffron Pistachio, Lavender Mint. Spike the flavors as an option!" —Cathy O'Connell, Co-Founder, COJ Events

4. Drinks

1. Fresh cocktails. "To make your menu extra special, think about using fresh, seasonal ingredients that not only taste great but also reflect the lovely surroundings. For drinks, lemon and lime-infused water or herb-infused cocktails can be super refreshing." —Isolda Marie Tilson, Lead Photographer of ModWedding Studios

2. Refreshing cocktails. "Beat the heat with refreshing signature drinks like a lavender lemonade cocktail, cucumber gin spritz, or a tropical sangria. Don't forget a mocktail option for non-drinkers and little ones." —Cortiella Photography

3. Summer wine pairings. "Pair these with some great wines — like a crisp Pinot Grigio with fresh fruits and soft cheeses, or a fun Sparkling Rosé for a bubbly touch to complement fresh greens and seafood. A smooth red blend can also complement the rich flavors of cured meats and aged cheeses. These thoughtful choices will enhance the atmosphere and help create memorable moments for you and your guests." —Isolda Marie Tilson, Lead Photographer of ModWedding Studios

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   Photo: ModWedding Studios

5. Digestifs. "End your wedding dinner with some ice cold limoncello digestifs that kick off the party." —Lisa Jaroscak, Owner & Creative Director, Elegante Weddings & Events

6. A vintage prosecco cart. "Include a vintage prosecco cart for your cocktail hour. It's interactive, and everyone loves bubbles." —Lisa Jaroscak, Owner & Creative Director, Elegante Weddings & Events

7. Classic summer cocktails. "Mint Julip, Mojito, French 75 — something with a twist and a sparkle." —Cathy O'Connell, Co-Founder, COJ Events

8. Chilled rosé. “Nothing defines summer more than a chilled rosé; make it sparkling to add an edge!" —Cathy O'Connell, Co-Founder, COJ Events

5. Salads

1. Fresh salads. "Locally sourced fresh salads with fruits, beets, dates, artichokes — whatever is grown locally that is fresh and delightful." —Cathy O'Connell, Co-Founder, COJ Events

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   Photo: Haley Ritcher Photography

3. Seasonal salads. "Start things off light with a selection of crisp salads featuring summer's best — think heirloom tomatoes, peaches, burrata, and vibrant greens. Bonus points for a fun salad bar with customizable toppings." —Cortiella Photography

4. In-season ingredients. "Two words: summer beets. I'm personally not a huge fan of leafy salads, so a seasonal salad with summer beets, tomatoes, cucumbers, topped with goat cheese and a light vinaigrette is a go-to must for any summer menu. It's fresh, vibrant, and a thoughtful way to incorporate local, in-season ingredients." —Ryan Van Tuyl, Founder, Burt’s Burgers

6. Flavorful bites

1. Cocktail hour bites. "As for summer food selections, vibrant, flavorful salads and beautifully arranged charcuterie boards with local cheeses and fruits are always a hit." —Isolda Marie Tilson, Lead Photographer of ModWedding Studios

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      Photo: ModWedding Studios

3. Chilled soups. "Serve a chilled soup to embrace the summer flavors and take your guests by surprise with something different." —Lisa Jaroscak, Owner & Creative Director, Elegante Weddings & Events
   

7. Grill Out

1. Nostalgic favorites. "When we think of outdoor, communal dining in America, it instantly brings to mind burgers, hot dogs, barbecue, and tacos. If you're planning an outdoor wedding, especially on a budget, you'll be amazed at how much guests love comfort food. It's nostalgic, satisfying, and perfect for a relaxed, summer vibe. As for drinks? Just give us all the margaritas. I mean all the margaritas." —Ryan Van Tuyl, Founder, Burt's Burgers

2. Backyard BBQ vibes. "For a summer wedding that feels seasonal and personal, lean into elevated backyard BBQ vibes. Smoked meat carving station, summer vegetables on the grill, and sliders with sweet potato fries. Nothing says summer celebration like a roasted lechon." —Katrina Lee, Head of Client Coordination, Crossed Keys Estate

3. Grilled delights. "There's nothing quite like the aroma of food on the grill on a warm day. Offer grilled meats, seafood, and even veggies to create a rustic, relaxed atmosphere that still feels elevated." —Cortiella Photography

4. A live grill station. "Consider having live grill cooking for your wedding dinner. This style of cooking is farm to table, entertaining, and so delicious." —Lisa Jaroscak, Owner & Creative Director, Elegante Weddings & Events

Sweet Treats

Photo: Marie Photography

8. Decadent dessert bars. "Offer a variety of sweets like fruit tarts, lemon bars, and ice cream sandwiches. A dessert bar lets guests sample different treats throughout the evening." —Cortiella Photography

9. Gourmet cotton candy. "Everyone loves their favorite carnival treat with a glow up. Try the margarita, bourbon bacon, or champagne flavors." —Lisa Jaroscak, Owner & Creative Director, Elegante Weddings & Events

10. Locally-sourced shakes. "Dates shakes, mint shakes, almond shakes — explore your region for fan favorites." —Cathy O'Connell, Co-Founder, COJ Events

11. Berry pies. "Forget the cake and do mini-pies in fresh fruits — classic American with apple pie, or get creative with boysenberry and plums! Add a scoop of ice-cream for a true summer delight."  —Cathy O'Connell, Co-Founder, COJ Events

9. Mini Bites

1. Make it a single serving. "One of our secret menu items that's always a crowd favorite is our steak frites in a cup. We layer hot, crispy, salty waffle fries over a little pool of ranch dressing, then top it with perfectly marinated skirt steak and our house-made chimichurri. It's the perfect bite — whether for cocktail hour, a late-night grab-and-go, or even as a main course option." —Ryan Van Tuyl, Founder, Burt's Burgers

2. Miniature bites. "Think bite-sized sliders, mini tacos, or caprese skewers. Easy to hold, easy to eat, and packed with flavor — perfect for guests mingling under the sun." —Cortiella Photography
   

10. Farm-to-table stations. "Highlight local, seasonal produce with a beautiful farm-to-table setup. It not only supports local growers but also ensures your food is as fresh and flavorful as possible." —Cortiella Photography

11. Add an Italian touch. "Bring the Italy vibes with a live mozzarella 'Cesaro.'"—Lisa Jaroscak, Owner & Creative Director, Elegante Weddings & Events