According to experts in the industry, one of the big trends in the catering business is providing food for the soul — comfort food that reminds us of the flavors of home. This trend appeared after the attacks on Sept. 11, when customers began to demand food that was nurturing, wholesome and down-to-earth. They wanted to be reminded of a good meal shared with friends and family. Caterers saw resurgence in tastes for classic, patriotic, American foods like soups, gumbos, potatoes, meatloaf, macaroni and cheese and rich desserts. Family-style meals, served in homey dishes with basic presentations, also became popular.