Unique Father's Day Lunch Ideas

Father’s Day is just around the corner, and if you haven’t started planning how you’ll celebrate dad on his day, might I suggest brunch? A Father’s Day brunch is the perfect way to get everyone in your family together in one place. Plus, it offers the added benefit of a day-time hang, which means you can steer the party well into the evening if you lose track of time swapping stories about dad. And what’s a party without food? If you’re getting the whole family together for dad’s day, you’ll want to nosh on something savory and snacky that doesn’t eat up too much time. Need ideas? These unique father’s day lunch ideas will get you out of the kitchen and back to the party in no time.

If you’re cooking for a crowd, you might want to consider doubling down on the recipe for some of these, or at least prepping a few extra sides for the table. But that’s not to say you have to do all the work; enlist the help of other siblings or family members and have them bring appetizers, beverages, and desserts to help offset the prep time. And best of all? Most of these menu items can be served family style… because who wants a fussy meal on a family day?

1. Shrimp ‘n Grits Naan Pizza

For a dish that easily bridges the gap between lunch and brunch, try this cajun naan pizza with remoulade sauce from Climbing Grier Mountain.

2. Sweet & Sour Pork Chops

Pork chops always make me think of my dad, and Damn Delicious gives the family classic a face-lift with a sweet ‘n sour glaze.

3. Simply Scratch Prime Rib Breakfast Hash

Want to treat dad to something fancy without spending hours in the kitchen? This elegant prime rib breakfast hash tastes like it took hours to make, but comes together in about 50 minutes.

4. Chicken Parm Meatloaf

Ground chicken dethrones ground beef as the star player in this cheesy chicken parm meatloaf, perfect for father’s day.

5. Open-Face Spring Sandwiches

These sandwiches are as beautiful as they are delicious. Top them with salmon, beef, fresh spreads, pickled vegetables, or whatever else your lunch-lovng heart (and dad) desires.

6. 15 Minute Miso Ramen

In a pinch? This ramen recipe from Steamy Kitchen comes together in 15 minutes flat without sacrificing anything in the way of taste or color.

7. Rough Puff Spinach And Sausage Pastries

For a lighter, crowd-pleasing Father’s Day dish, whip up these savory puff pastry log from The Gouda Life.

8. Caramelized Onion And Sharp Cheddar Patty Melt

Make dad a sandwich fit for a king on his special day, like this gorgeous grilled patty melt with juicy caramelized onions and sharp Cooper Cheese from A Better, Happier St. Sebastian.

9. Chipotle Orange Chicken Wings

Sweet, spicy, and a little bit tangy, these chicken wings from Taste and Tell are as undeniable as dad himself. Pair ‘em with sweet potato fries or grilled corn for summery lunch.

10. Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

If there’s a more delicious home-cooked meal in the world, I haven’t found it yet. These stuffed cabbage rolls from Parsley, Sage, and Sweet are deceptively easy and full of hearty flavor.

11. Copycat In-n-Out Double Double Burgers

If you don’t leave near the mecca that is In ‘n Out (so basically if you aren’t in California or Texas ... ), here’s a recipe from I Am A Food Blog that’ll make both you and dad happy. Got a gluten-free eater? Swap the bun for iceberg lettuce.

12. Potato Latkes Benedict

Give your classic Father’s Day brunch a kosher update with this potato latke benedict recipe from What Jew Wanna Eat.

13. Thai Peanut Chicken Avocado Burritos

A classic burrito takes a Thai turn in this recipe from Closet Cooking. The unexpected flavors are bright, savory, and perfect for lunch with dad.

14. Beach Pasta

A fun take on Pasta Fresca, this dish uses tomatoes, olives, and tuna to put a sort of Nicoise-spin on classic pasta. Plus, it’s light enough for a midday meal. Get the recipe from Big Girls, Small Kitchen.

15. Guinness Braised Beef Stew

If dad likes hearty meals, he’ll love this Guinness-infused stew from A Pretty Life in the Suburbs. And of course, be sure to have a few cold Guinness' on hand to enjoy with it.

16. Sweet Chili Grilled Chicken

For a summery meal with a little heat, try this sweet chili chicken from Averie Cooks. Pair it with rice and pineapple, or grilled veggies. Don’t forget the rosé, either.

17. Mini Caprese Pasta Salads

Dining al fresco? These mini pasta salad jars are picnic-ready and great for a crowd. Psst. Make it all in the same pot for even easier clean up.

18. Chicken Gyro Salad with Tzatziki

For a bright, leafy salad that full of flavor but short on prep time, try this shawarma-inspired greek salad. Pair it with grilled pita, homemade olives, and fresh labneh for munching.

19. Bonne Bouche, Sherry Caramelized Onion, and Honeyed Pear Pizza

This pie from Adventures in Cooking is enough to take your breath (but not your appetite) away. This Father's Day, wow your pops with an upscale version of everyone's favorite comfort food — pizza.