Summer entertaining season is in full swing, and for many hosts, the goal is simple: spend less time cooking and cleaning and more time enjoying family and friends. From backyard barbecues, pool parties, family reunions or neighborhood get-togethers, communities across the country are celebrating Independence Day and kicking off events honoring America’s 250th anniversary. As hosts prepare for Fourth of July parties and summer celebrations, many are looking for easy ways to create memorable gatherings without the stress that often comes with hosting. The Stand Restaurants, one of California’s fastest growing restaurant brands, believes the secret to successful summer entertaining is keeping things simple, delicious and stress free.
“Summer is about bringing people together and filling your available time with family, friends, and having fun,” said Zachary Wishengrad, Vice President of The Stand Restaurants. “Whether you are hosting a Fourth of July celebration, pool party, family barbecue, neighborhood gathering or an event recognizing America’s 250th anniversary, people want great food, great company and an experience that allows everyone, including the host, to enjoy the day.”
With the summer entertaining season in full swing, Wishengrad recommends focusing on a few key elements that can help make any gathering a success. Consider the following tips for hosting a simple and successful summer gathering:
Build a menu that appeals to everyone. Offer a variety of options so guests can find something they enjoy. Ideas include:
• Bold gourmet burgers with a wide variety of toppings
• Stacked sandwiches or fresh wraps
• Protein packed bowls
• Fresh salads
• Craveable sides & vegetables
Popular menu selections from The Stand, that are easy to pick up or have delivered include:
• Burgers – Some favorites from The Stand include the ABC Burger, Jalapeño Bacon Burger, and The Onion Stack Burger
• Sandwiches – Like The Stand’s Chicken Club, Southwest Chicken Sandwich, Barbeque Brisket Sandwich, Short Rib Grilled Cheese, and their new Miso Salmon Sandwich
• Wraps – The new Chinese Chicken Wrap is bound to please and compliments a variety with their Southwest Chicken and Falafel Wrap.
• Bowls – Miso Salmon Bowl, Teriyaki Chicken Bowl or Tex-Mex Steak Bowl are staples and their new Jerk Chicken Bowl is a huge hit.
• Salads – Fresh made Seared Ahi Tuna Salad, Kale Quinoa Crunch Salad, Chimichurri Steak Salad, or the Chinese Chicken Chop Salad are all crowd pleasing.
• Sides & Vegetables – House-fried & seasoned potato chips, Mac & Cheese, Grilled Meyer Lemon Broccolini, Red Ginger Green Beans with Crispy Onion Strings
“People still love classic summer favorites like burgers, but they also appreciate fresh ingredients, bold flavors and healthier alternatives,” said Wishengrad. “Offering variety creates a more memorable experience and gives guests choices they may not expect at a traditional backyard gathering.”
Summer gatherings should feel effortless…through The Stand’s Catering Website, hosts can access new group-ordering tools designed to streamline ordering and pick from curated catering packages to simplify planning. The Stand’s catering can feed groups as small as 10 and as large as several hundred at a time.
Popular catering options at The Stand include:
• Assorted sandwich and wrap platters
• Large sides such as crispy chicken tenders with dipping sauces, homemade chips and fresh guacamole, chilli, slaw, red ginger green beans, meyer lemon broccolini, and mac ‘n cheese.
• Kids catering of build your own burger/hot dog or boxed meals.
• Build your own burger or hot dog bar
• Desserts such as a cookie and brownie tray.
• Drinks by the ½ gallon like homemade fresh agua fresca and strawberry lemonade.
Create spaces for connection. The best gatherings focus on bringing people together, simple additions can help create a welcoming atmosphere:
• Shaded seating areas
• Outdoor games
• Patriotic decorations
• Curated music playlists
• Self-serve food and beverage stations
• Family friendly activities
“Food has always brought people together,” says Wishengrad. “As families and communities celebrate our nation’s history this summer, the goal should be creating meaningful moments together. The best gatherings are the ones where people can relax, enjoy great food and focus on making memories.”
The Stand is known for redefining American classics, offering burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads, bowls, hot dogs, shakes and more. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are also available. Founded in Encino, California, The Stand has grown to 22 locations and continues expanding throughout Southern California. For menus, locations and catering information, visit thestand.com.
