The Best of British Summertime

At Payne & Gunter, we’re proud to be the outdoor event caterer of choice for standout occasions at legendary London venues (and beyond). In Summer 2024, we had the honour of delivering exceptional culinary experiences at three of the season’s most anticipated events: Wimbledon, London Pride, and an exclusive corporate luncheon at the historic Hampton Court Palace. From the menus to the iconic locations, here’s a glimpse into the summer events that stole the show.

The historic grandeur of Hampton Court Palace provided the ideal setting for an elegant summer luncheon, hosted by Spectra, the UK’s leading destination management company, for their client, Allstate. Payne & Gunter were honoured to be chosen as the first catering partner to serve food and drink on the prestigious Privy Lawns, delivering a seamless blend of refined hospitality and exceptional cuisine. The combination of the idyllic backdrop and Payne & Gunter’s attention to detail made for a truly unforgettable experience in this iconic location.

Our relationship with Spectra spans decades, having been their trusted catering partner in the UK since the 1980s. Known for their meticulous planning, Spectra entrusted us with crafting a bespoke menu that embodied London’s historic elegance while embracing modern sustainability. To meet their high standards, Payne & Gunter’s expert chefs curated a fine dining experience that celebrated British culinary traditions, with a focus on seasonal and garden-fresh ingredients that reflected our commitment to excellence and sustainability.

The menu nodded to traditional British favourites, featuring standout dishes such as treacle-cured beef sirloin with parsley salsa verde, kiln-roasted salmon, and a decadent Jubilee lemon trifle. Payne & Gunter’s attention to detail and commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience made this luncheon one of the season’s most memorable events.

London Pride is always a vibrant celebration of diversity, and this summer, Payne & Gunter brought our signature flair to the festivities. Tasked with bringing our outdoor event caterer expertise to this iconic event, we embraced the spirit of inclusion with a bold and creative menu that was as diverse as the crowd it served. Vibrant, varied, and bursting with flavour, the dishes were a feast for both the eyes and the tastebuds.

From chocolate brownies with rainbow sprinkles to vibrant poke bowls with ancient grains and sweet chilli chicken, each colourful lunch dish was crafted with love and care in line with the spirit of the event.  Guests were also treated to an afternoon tea spread featuring British classics like roast chicken and Yorkshire puddings, followed by delectable strawberry choux buns. As the sun set and the evening got underway, our "Sundowners" menu offered a delightful selection of bite-sized treats perfect for mingling and unwinding. Guests enjoyed fresh vegetable sushi, mouth-watering hoisin duck pancakes, and classic pork and apple sausage rolls. A sweet finale of mini macarons rounded out this sumptuous spread, making it the perfect way to enjoy an unforgettable evening.

When it comes to iconic British events, Wimbledon is up there with the best, and this summer, Payne & Gunter elevated the experience for guests at the Rosewater Pavilion. Conveniently nestled within the Grounds, the Pavilion offered attendees an oasis of elegance amidst the tennis excitement. The refined atmosphere, combined with Payne & Gunter’s exceptional service, created an unforgettable dining experience at the heart of this legendary sporting event.

Guests enjoyed a refined four-course à la carte menu celebrating the best of British ingredients, alongside indulgent afternoon tea and the Wimbledon staple of strawberries and cream. Dishes included creamy burrata served with fresh bread, sea bass with crispy potato pave and British classic Eton mess. Dishes were complemented by a premium wine selection paired to each course, alongside Champagne and bespoke cocktails. 

Looking to plan your own outdoor summer event? With a reputation for excellence, Payne & Gunter are the best choice to bring your vision to life. With centuries of expertise in delivering exceptional outdoor catering, we create magical dining experiences that guests will remember for years to come. 

Whether it’s a grand garden party, a lively festival, or a prestigious outdoor sporting event, we provide impeccable service that combines quintessential British flair with contemporary culinary delights. From gourmet BBQs and street food to elegant alfresco dining, our tailored menus are designed to complement every event, ensuring that your guests enjoy the finest food, wherever the occasion. Contact our experienced team today to make your next outdoor event a standout success.