63 New Year’s Eve Food & Menu Ideas to Say Goodbye to 2024
The new year will be here before you know it, and if you’re the go-to party host, you need to start considering what New Year’s Eve food you’ll be serving at the party of the year. For many people, this year-end bash is a big deal. If that sounds like you, it’s never too early to plan.
Will you serve traditional New Year’s Eve food? What is traditional New Year's Eve food, anyway? And on that note, what three foods are you supposed to eat on New Year's Day?
We’re here to help answer some of these questions so you can start making your New Year’s Eve menu. Read on for amazing inspiration.
Jump to Section
- New Year’s Eve Dinner Party Menu Ideas
- New Year’s Eve Buffet Menu Ideas
- Traditional New Year’s Eve Dinner
- Cheap and Easy New Year’s Eve Food
- New Year's Eve Food Ideas for Families
- Fine Dining New Year’s Eve Menu Ideas
New Year’s Eve Dinner Party Menu Ideas
1. Gatsby's Gala
Who throws a better party than the Great Gatsby? Make some New Year’s Eve food for this 20s-style bash (complete with Decades Day outfits, if you so desire). Your evening should include an Art Deco-inspired luxury menu featuring oysters, caviar, filet mignon and champagne-infused desserts. And of course the best New Year's Eve cocktails — no prohibition here!
2. Tuscan Midnight
Oh to spend New Year’s in Tuscany. Most of us don’t have the privilege, so our New Year’s Eve food will have to suffice. Serve your guests an Italian-inspired feast with antipasto, homemade pasta, osso buco, and limoncello-infused tiramisu.
3. Winter Wonderland
If you’re looking for food prep ideas for your New Year’s Eve food, look no further than the season (if you’re in the Northern Hemisphere, of course). Create a seasonal menu highlighting roasted root vegetables, braised short ribs and spiced apple cider desserts like crème brûlée. Make your New Year’s Eve food comforting and hearty to beat the winter chill.
4. Masquerade Ball
New Year’s Eve party? No, New Year’s Eve ball. Create a French-inspired masquerade-themed dinner with coq au vin, ratatouille and crème caramel. Have your guests wear masquerade-inspired outfits and provide masks for those who don’t have them. It’s fun to stay on theme.
5. Vintage Vegas
When you think of the lights of New Year’s Eve, you have to also think about one of the brightest cities in the States: Las Vegas. Create a classic American menu featuring surf and turf, lobster thermidor, burgers and champagne cocktail pairings. Consider some wild Vegas strip-inspired cocktails and mocktails as well. You can even attend some cooking classes in Las Vegas to inspire your dishes.
6. Midnight in Paris
Whether you’re in America, Canada, Mexico, Australia or anywhere in the world, you can enjoy a French (inspired) evening with your New Year’s Eve food. Create a French bistro-inspired menu with escargots, duck confit and crème brûlée, as well as a tasty baguette and plenty of French cheeses.
7. Global Countdown
We all enter the new year at different times, but your New Year’s Eve food menu can bring the world together. Make an internationally-inspired menu with dishes from around the world, such as sushi, tacos and samosas. You can also include some diverse traditional New Year’s Eve food from later in this list.
8. Golden Glamour
What food is good for a New Year's Eve party? If you’re like us, you want to think big. This, for many people, is the biggest and fanciest party of the year. We recommend a luxurious menu featuring golden caviar, seared scallops and champagne-poached lobster if you really want to impress your friends and end the year with a bang.
9. Retro Revival
Let’s bring in the new year by looking back at the years that came before. Make a menu featuring classic American comfort foods over the years, including beef Wellington, deviled eggs, ambrosia salad, jello molds and cheesecake.
10. Summer Cookout
It might be the dead of winter where you are, but the fire from a good ol' fashioned summer-inspired cookout should keep you warm. Even if the weather outside is frightful, fill your New Year’s Eve food menu with grilled favorites like burgers, veggie burgers and hotdogs served with potato salad, chips and other cookout favorites. Think warm thoughts. If you're in a warmer climate, then don't think twice about your theme for the best New Year's Eve food, this is your pick.
11. New York City New Year's
Even if you’re not in the Big Apple to see the ball drop, you can pretend by eating NYC-inspired New Year’s Eve foods. Create a Manhattan-inspired menu with bagels and lox, Manhattan clam chowder and classic New York-style cheesecake. If you want to keep it simple, order (or make) some New York-Style pizza.
New Year’s Eve Buffet Menu Ideas
12. Midnight Morsels
Tiny foods are so cute. Finger food ideas are perfect for a buffet, especially at a busy party where people would prefer to mingle rather than sit and eat. Make miniature versions of favorite dishes, including tiny beef Wellington, deviled eggs, tiny hamburgers and mini quiches. Anything you can make, try to make it tiny!
13. Pre-Resolution Indulgences
You know what New Year’s Eve means: it’s time for resolutions. If any of your New Year’s resolution ideas involve food, you should consider going all-out (within reason) with a buffet full of New Year’s Eve foods that are totally indulgent. Your favorite desserts and fried foods all have a place at the table one last time.
14. Buffet Sushi Bar
This one is pretty self-explanatory. Fish is traditionally considered a lucky New Year’s Eve food. A sushi bar is just a buffet full of good luck then, right? Get a wide assortment of rolls (including ones that suit dietary restrictions) and provide wasabi and soy sauce.
15. Finger Sandwiches Galore
What food is good for a New Year's Eve party? Well, you can’t really go wrong with finger sandwiches. They’re great for picking up and walking around the party with friends. Make a variety of different sandwich options so guests can grab a little bite of everything.
16. Southern-Style Buffet
Southern soul food is heartwarming, making it perfect New Year’s Eve food for a cold winter night. Many traditional New Year’s Eve foods are from the American South, like collard greens and cornbread. Make all of your Southern favorites for a hearty meal.
17. Soups and Salads
If you want lighter fare for your New Year’s Eve food buffet, you can’t go wrong with soups and salads. Fill a salad bar with veggies and toppings and provide a few different soups to choose from. Include bread and butter at the end of the buffet.
18. Taco Bar Buffet
Taco bars are crowd-pleasers. Everyone can get something they like. Provide tortillas, different filling options (like meat and veggies) and any toppings people may want. Don’t forget to set up a hot sauce station!
19. All Sweets Dessert Buffet
If you want to reduce your sugar intake in the new year, you may want to have one last sugary party. Fill your buffet with sweets of all kinds to close out the year with a total sugar rush. At least it will keep you up until the ball drops!
20. Build-Your-Own Hoagie Station
Who doesn’t love a hoagie (otherwise known as a sub or a grinder)? Set up bread, veggies, cheeses and protein options for people to assemble together into tasty sandwiches. Take inspiration from local sub-shops for the setup.
21. Endless Pizza Party Buffet
What do you serve at an NYE buffet? If you’re struggling, choose the easiest option: pizza. Everyone loves pizza. Order a few different pizzas (make sure there’s one for every dietary need at your party, like gluten-free and lactose-free) and let people chow down. This is minimal work for you as the host and everyone will be happy with your New Year’s Eve food.
22. Seafood Extravaganza
Again, fish is a good luck New Year’s Eve food. Provide your guests with all of the good luck by treating them to a seafood buffet. Pile it high with lobster, oysters and other undersea indulgences.
23. All Sides Buffet
Is this Girl Dinner? Kind of! Instead of “meal foods,” serve sides. A buffet full of green beans, mashed potatoes, fries and other standard “side-dishes” may seem silly, but everyone will find something they love and they may come up with unique combinations.
Traditional New Year’s Eve Dinner
24. Black-Eyed Peas
Black-eyed peas are believed to bring good luck and prosperity due to their resemblance to coins. They're often served with rice, bacon or ham, and are a staple in Southern cuisine. The dish is thought to have originated from African and European traditions. It’s a great choice for a New Year’s Eve food.
25. Collard Greens
Collard greens represent wealth and good fortune due to their green color, resembling dollars. They're often cooked with pork or bacon and served alongside black-eyed peas, so combine this New Year’s Eve food with the previous one.
26. Long Soba Noodles
Long noodles, called "Toshikoshi Soba," symbolize longevity and a happy home. They're traditionally eaten on New Year's Eve to ensure a long and healthy life. The noodles are usually served cold (which many Americans will be unfamiliar with) with a dipping sauce or broth. This is one of the Japanese December global holiday traditions.
27. Fish
As we mentioned before, many people eat fish as a lucky New Year’s Eve food. Fish represents abundance and good health due to its abundance in the ocean. Various types of fish are served, such as salmon, cod or carp.
28. Dumplings
Dumplings resemble ancient silver and gold ingots, symbolizing good fortune in the new year. In this case, we’re referring to dumplings made in Asian countries, however any culture’s traditional dumpling will work. They're filled with meat, vegetables or kimchi and served steamed or pan-fried.
29. Sauerkraut and Sausage
Sauerkraut and sausage are traditional German dishes believed to bring good luck. The sauerkraut represents longevity, while the sausage symbolizes prosperity. This hearty dish is a perfect winter New Year’s Eve food.
30. Twelve-Grain Bread
Twelve-grain bread, made with 12 different grains, symbolizes the 12 months of the year. This makes it a perfect New Year’s Eve food. Eat it alone or with cheese, or consider making it into a tasty New Year’s Eve sandwich.
31. Tamales
Tamales are traditionally eaten on Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Mexico and among Mexican people worldwide according to the Library of Congress. They are often used to symbolize family unity and togetherness. If you want to have a happy and unified family in the New Year, make some tasty tamales together.
32. Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Stuffed cabbage rolls, generally filled with meat and rice, are a traditional Eastern European dish. Stuffed cabbage is often eaten on New Year’s Eve as well as during the other winter holidays. It’s warm and filling.
33. Vasilopita
Vasilopita is a sweet bread containing a hidden coin, bringing good fortune to whoever receives the coin. The bread is typically flavored with mahlepi or mastiha. This is a unique New Year’s Eve food that your guests may never have tried before, and it’s fun and interactive. Just make sure they know there's a coin inside or they may chip a tooth.
Cheap and Easy New Year’s Eve Food
34. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
The spinach and artichoke dip is a crowd-pleaser and easy to make. This appetizer costs around $5 to make and requires spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, mayonnaise and parmesan cheese. Simply combine the ingredients and bake until warm and bubbly. Serve with tortilla chips or bread for a delicious start to your celebration.
35. Mini Quiches
Mini quiches are another affordable option, costing around $3 to make (depending on quantity, of course). Use pre-made crusts and fill with eggs, cheese and veggies, as well as any protein you may want. Bake until set, and you're ready to go.
36. Meatballs
Meatballs are a classic party favorite and can be made for around $4. Mix ground meat with breadcrumbs, egg, onion and marinara sauce. Form into balls and bake or fry until cooked through. Serve with additional marinara sauce or gravy. These are great finger foods.
37. Sliders
Sliders are an easy finger food option, and they’re pretty affordable to make depending on the quality of ingredients you choose to use. Combine your favorite burger protein, buns, cheese, lettuce and tomato. Assemble and serve. King’s Hawaiian Buns are great for sliders.
38. Mini Tacos
Mini tacos are another affordable finger food, costing around $2 each. Fill tiny tortillas with pre-cooked ground beef, beans or chicken. Add cheese, lettuce and tomato and provide a variety of dips and sauces to dunk the tacos in. They’re great with warm queso.
39. Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a simple yet elegant option, and they’re super cheap to make. Boil eggs, mix yolks with mayonnaise and mustard and fill egg whites with the mixture. This is a classic New Year’s Eve food for parties.
40. Fruit Kabobs
Fruit kabobs are a healthy dessert option after all of the indulgent New Year’s Eve we’re sure you’ll be eating at the party. Skewer fresh fruit like grapes, strawberries and pineapple onto wooden sticks. You can use any fruit that’s available. Seasonal fruits are often cheaper.
41. Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
Wanna take those fruit kabobs to the next level? Dip them in chocolate. Chocolate-dipped strawberries are a decadent treat that can cost around $3 if you make them yourself. Because they’re quite expensive to buy pre-made, everyone will think you went all out. Dip strawberries into melted chocolate and chill until set.
42. Cheese and Crackers
Charcuterie board ideas are fun and tasty, but they can get expensive. If you’re on a post-Christmas budget, you may want a better option. Pair affordable cheeses with crackers. Add fruits like apples and grapes to help fill out the plate.
43. Veggie Platter
You really can’t go wrong with a veggie platter. It’s affordable and healthy, and it may help counteract some of the other New Year’s Eve food you’ll be eating. It’s nice to at least have a fresh and healthy option.
New Year's Eve Food Ideas for Families
44. Mini Pizza Bites
Mini pizza bites are a fun and easy snack for kids. Use pre-made crusts, sauce, cheese and toppings, and let kids create their own pizzas. This interactive snack is perfect for a family celebration.
45. Chicken Tenders
Chicken tenders are a kid-friendly favorite. Serve them with dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch dressing. To make it even easier and faster, use pre-cooked tenders. This is an easy New Year’s Eve food to whip up while you’re making other meals for the grown-ups.
46. Mac 'n Cheese
Mac 'n cheese is a classic comfort food. Whether you prefer baked or stove-top, this indulgent and cheesy dish will please everyone. It’s a warm and cozy New Year’s Eve food that almost everyone can agree on.
47. Sliders Bar
Host a sliders bar with pre-cooked burgers, buns, cheese, lettuce, tomato and condiments. Let everyone create their own sliders, making it a fun and interactive dining experience that isn’t likely to get any complaints or pushback.
48. Burrito Bowl Bar
Set up a burrito bowl bar with protein options, veggies, tortillas, cheese, lettuce and tomatoes. Add fun toppings like salsa, guacamole, cheese and sour cream to make it a festive and flavorful meal. It’s also a healthy and affordable meal!
49. Sparkling Midnight Toast
Kids can’t have Champagne, and that may make them feel a bit left out. Offer them sparkling cider or juice for a kid-friendly toast. Use champagne flutes for a festive touch, making the occasion feel special. Or give them the best cocktails that are non-alcoholic — The Shirley Temple. You can also show them a pre-recorded ball drop if it’s past their bedtime but they still want to feel involved.
50. Wonton Soup
Bring the luck of dumplings into something warm and comforting. Wonton soup can be bought or cooked at home. It’s kid-friendly and relatively healthy.
51. Pierogies
Pierogies are a kind of dumpling, again, making them lucky New Year’s Eve foods. They’re traditionally filled with potatoes and other fillings like cheese and onions. You can boil them or fry them and they’re very kid-friendly.
52. BLT Sandwiches
In the American South, eating pork on New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day is said to bring luck in the new year. While pork may be a good New Year’s Eve food, it may not be ideal for children. However, most meat-eating children are happy to eat bacon. A tasty BLT is a family-friendly way to incorporate the pork tradition in a way that kids will enjoy.
53. Breakfast for Dinner
Looking for an easy family-friendly New Year’s Eve food? Serve pancakes, waffles or eggs for a fun twist. Breakfast for dinner is perfect when you plan on staying up into the wee hours of the morning to catch the New Year beginning.
54. NYE Cupcakes
Make NYE cupcakes with vanilla or chocolate cake, frosting and sprinkles. Let kids decorate their own cupcakes, making it a fun and creative activity. You can even get edible glitter to make them more festive and fun.
Fine Dining New Year’s Eve Menu Ideas
55. Foie Gras Torchon with Fig Compote
Fois Gras is considered a lucky New Year’s Eve food in France. Indulge in the rich flavors of foie gras torchon, served with sweet fig compote, toasted brioche and pickled pink peppercorns. This fancy and luxurious dish can be paired with a glass of Sauternes or Tawny Port.
56. Lobster Thermidor with Garlic Butter
Savor the succulent flavors of lobster tail, cooked in garlic butter and served with steamed asparagus and lemon-herb quinoa. This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc and it’s sure to impress.
57. Seared Halibut with Lemon-Dill Sauce
As we mentioned earlier on, fish is commonly eaten as a lucky New Year’s Eve food. You can upgrade your normal fish dish and make it worthy of a fine dining evening. You and your guests can enjoy the freshness of seared halibut, served with bright lemon-dill sauce and microgreens. This dish pairs well with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
58. Pan-Seared Salmon with Capers and Browned Butter
Again, fish is a great New Year’s Eve food. If halibut isn’t for you, make some tasty salmon. Enjoy the flavors of pan-seared salmon, served with crispy capers and nutty browned butter. Serve it with truffle mashed potatoes or garlic green beans (or both). This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
59. Rack of Lamb with Rosemary Jus
Lamb is often a traditional Christmas party food in Christian households, but that doesn’t mean it won’t also work for a New Year’s Eve food just a short few days after the holiday. Savor the flavors of a tender rack of lamb served with fragrant rosemary jus and roasted vegetables. This dish goes well with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
60. Grilled Wagyu Ribeye with Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
If you’re a meat eater, nothing may sound better than closing out the year with a high-quality steak. Steak can be an excellent New Year’s Eve food for bringing in a year of wealth and indulgence. Experience the tenderness of grilled Wagyu ribeye, served with roasted garlic mashed potatoes and broccolini. This dish is paired with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah.
61. Seared Scallops with Truffle Risotto
Seared scallops are indulgent and delicious New Year's Eve foods. They’re relatively easy to make and the dish will look impressive to your guests. Kick off the evening of fun with seared scallops, pan-seared to perfection and served with truffle-infused risotto, parmesan cheese and greens. This dish pairs perfectly with a glass of Champagne or Sauvignon Blanc.
62. Roasted Filet Mignon with Wild Mushroom Reduction
Another tasty and indulgent steak dinner to end the year on a good note. What a lovely New Year’s Eve food! Treat your guests to tender filet mignon, roasted to perfection and served with rich wild mushroom reduction and truffled mashed potatoes. This dish pairs beautifully with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir.
63. Chocolate Lava Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream
We can’t have a list of high-end New Year’s Eve food without mentioning dessert. End the evening with rich chocolate lava cake, served with tasty vanilla ice cream and chocolate or caramel sauce. This decadent dessert pairs well with a glass of Tawny Port or Moscato, or you can use this opportunity to bring out the midnight Champagne.
So which of these New Year’s Eve foods will you be serving to your guests? Will you go over the top with fine dining options or keep it simple with some affordable and quick party treats? Either way, you’re sure to start the new year off right. Happy New Year!
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