When the team over at Volkswagen Portsmouth started planning a small thank-you for their service sales staff, they had one clear goal in mind: make it feel like a proper treat – not just a few sandwiches in the break room, but something people would actually look forward to. That’s when they got in touch with Hog Roast Portsmouth – and we were more than happy to help.
Olly, our catering manager, picked up the details and had a chat with the client about what they were after. Interestingly, they didn’t want the usual hog roast setup. They were after something a bit different – easy to eat, no fuss, but still packed with flavour.
Honestly we love briefs like these – it keeps things interesting on our end and allows us to flex our cooking muscles. As much as we love what we’re known for, it’s always nice to switch gears and try something new. So, with around 40 people to feed and the idea that everyone might be eating on the move, we landed on a simple but solid option: chicken burgers.
Now, these weren’t your average burgers.
Hog Roast Portsmouth used high-quality, free-range chicken fillets, cooked until crispy on the outside but still really juicy inside. Each one went into a soft white bun with fresh lettuce and sliced tomatoes and a bit of garlic mayo for those who wanted it (which, as it turns out, was most people). Just as the client had requested, there was nothing overly complicated about this menu – but gosh, was it tasty.
We also made sure everything was easy to handle. Guests could grab their food in burger boxes or on bamboo plates with matching cutlery, which kept things neat and convenient.
From what we saw – and heard – it went down really well. People were relaxed, enjoying their food and it had that nice, informal feel the client was going for. Exactly the kind of atmosphere you want when you’re saying “thanks” to your team.
So, if you’re thinking about doing something similar for your staff, remember: it doesn’t have to be over the top. Sometimes, good food done right is more than enough. And if you want a hand making it happen, Hog Roast Portsmouth is always up for it.