St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect excuse to gather friends, don something green, and indulge in hearty Irish-inspired fare. From classic corned beef and cabbage to creative twists on old favorites, there are plenty of delicious ways to celebrate in Tinton Falls. Below, we’ve rounded up some must-try party foods guaranteed to make your festivities feel both festive and filling!
Corned beef and cabbage is the quintessential Irish-American dish many people associate with St. Patrick’s Day. Slow-cooked corned beef becomes tender and flavorful, pairing perfectly with stewed cabbage, carrots, and potatoes.
Check out local Tinton Falls supermarkets or butcher shops—some may offer pre-seasoned corned beef or in-house brined brisket for a fresh, flavorful start. Otherwise, toss in a bay leaf, whole peppercorns, and a splash of beer for extra depth.
Dense and slightly sweet with a hint of tang from buttermilk, Irish soda bread is ideal for scooping up hearty stews or slathering with salted butter. Serve it on the side to round out your St. Patrick’s Day meal. For extra flavor, fold in caraway seeds or golden raisins.
While crispy chicken tenders aren’t a traditional Irish dish, they can still be a crowd-pleasing addition to a St. Patrick’s Day spread—especially if you give them a festive twist. Consider offering an Irish-inspired dipping sauce, like a tangy Guinness-based mustard or a creamy herb sauce with parsley and chives.
You could also season the breading with herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and a hint of garlic. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a main dish, chicken tenders can be a convenient finger food that helps break up the heavier, classic holiday staples.
Shepherd’s pie is traditionally made with lamb, while cottage pie uses beef—but both versions are crowd-pleasers. The savory filling, simmered with herbs and veggies, is topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden.
If you want to make individual portions, prepare the Shepherd's pie in ramekins (small, heat-resistant bakeware). You can even assemble the dish and refrigerate it a day in advance, which is super helpful when you have plenty to prepare! Just pop the pie in the oven before your guests arrive!
Colcannon is a combination of mashed potatoes and greens (usually kale or cabbage), elevated with butter, milk, and seasonings. It’s a straightforward recipe that delivers maximum flavor—perfect for still-chilly March evenings in Tinton Falls. For a tasty twist, consider adding cooked bacon bits or ham and sprinkling with fresh chives.
Pair this creamy, tangy dip with pretzels, crusty bread, or vegetables. Typically made with cheddar cheese, spices, and a dash of Irish stout, it’s a nod to the holiday’s pub-favorite roots. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses, like a mix of sharp cheddar and Gouda. You can also visit local breweries in the greater Monmouth County area to pick up a fresh stout for your recipe.
While not exclusively Irish, this beloved pub staple is still a popular option for St. Patrick’s Day. Lightly battered fish fillets and crisp fries (chips) deliver that perfect balance of flaky and crunchy. Prepare your own homemade tarter sauce using a mix of mayo, relish, lemon juice, and chopped dill. And, for a light, airy texture, use a cold beer-based batter.
Reubens aren’t exactly traditional Irish cuisine, but they’re a fun nod to corned beef. Layer corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing on slider buns for bite-sized sandwiches that are easy to grab and go. For extra crunch, toast the buns and have extra dressing on the side so that your guests can customize their sliders.
No party is complete without dessert. Rich chocolate brownies infused with Baileys Irish Cream or cupcakes topped with whiskey-spiked frosting are perfect for those with a sweet tooth. If you’d rather skip baking, keep an eye out for local bakeries around Tinton Falls—many offer special St. Patrick’s Day treats this time of year.
La Rosa Chicken and Grill may not be the first restaurant that comes to mind when catering a St. Patty’s Day party, but we can ensure your event goes off without a hitch! Between our crispy chicken fingers, crunchy, golden french fries, and seasonal vegetables seasoned to perfection, you can host a festive, flavorful celebration with comforting food that speaks to the soul. Contact us today to place your catering order!