While office buildings in city centers are often surrounded by restaurants and shops, eating out every day quickly adds up in cost. A corporate cafeteria, on the other hand, offers employees quality meals at affordable prices. And the lunch break once again becomes an enjoyable moment to share with colleagues.
Here’s a closer look at the main advantages of a corporate cafeteria.
What is a corporate cafeteria?
A corporate cafeteria – also called a staff restaurant or canteen – is a dining area provided for employees, where part (or sometimes all) of the cost is covered by the employer.
Unlike traditional restaurants, corporate cafeterias are usually self-service rather than table service.
What about the layout?
The design of a corporate cafeteria depends on the size of the company, how often employees are in the office versus working remotely, and the budget allocated.
From the choice of furniture (tables, chairs, buffets), to recreational areas, to interior design (classic vs modern, plants, etc.), every detail shapes the space. Food variety also plays a role: hot or cold meals, sandwiches, salads, coffee, tea. Even its location in the building can make a difference in how employees use and enjoy the space.
Opening hours
Corporate cafeterias usually remain open for much of the day. That means they can be used not only at lunchtime but also for coffee breaks and healthy snacking.
This makes them an ideal place to offer employees healthy options – for example, with an eco-friendly snack dispenser like those from BulkBar. The concept? Organic nuts, dried fruit and cereals, available in bulk and self-service, for employees to enjoy whenever they need an energy boost.
The benefits of a corporate cafeteria
1. A place for social connection and relaxation
Having a cafeteria on-site brings people together in one shared space, encouraging conversation and team bonding.
These spaces are even more valuable today, with hybrid work becoming the norm. Office days should be an opportunity to reconnect, and a welcoming cafeteria is perfect for that.
Employers can also use cafeteria design to make the experience more enjoyable: green plants, vintage or designer furniture, custom-built seating, or even an open kitchen concept.
2. Reduced meal costs for employees
Cafeterias don’t just create a pleasant atmosphere, they also save employees money. Eating in-house usually costs much less than going to a restaurant or café nearby every day.
For companies, it’s a long-term investment that directly supports employee well-being.
3. A varied menu
Corporate cafeterias typically offer a wide range of choices, from starters to desserts and drinks.
Menus often include hot meals with vegetables, grains, and protein, as well as cold options like sandwiches and salad bars. Some even feature a healthy bulk snack bar filled with nuts, granola, and other crunchy treats.
And of course, coffee machines and water fountains are a must-have, while other drinks depend on the company’s setup.
4. An option for business meals
Located right inside the workplace, corporate cafeterias also provide a convenient alternative for business lunches with clients or partners.
They’re equally useful for team lunch meetings that don’t require leaving the office.
Corporate cafeterias and workplace well-being
Not every company has the scale or resources to offer a cafeteria. But for those that do, the benefits are clear, both for employers and employees.
As a social hub for sharing lunch or coffee, a corporate cafeteria improves the overall work environment and contributes to employee well-being.
It’s one of the many ways companies can strengthen workplace culture while making daily life at the office more enjoyable.
Published on 30/08/2022
