Choosing between catering vendors can be a bit overwhelming. After all, every caterer can claim to be the best in business. If this is for a personal event, you need to ensure that the menu is worthy of your guests. In this guide, we are sharing a few tips on how to find a caterer to host a whole buffet.
Start with menus
If you have shortlisted a few caterers, start by evaluating their standard buffet menus. Many caterers specialize in certain meats, like roast beef, turkey breast and chicken, and you can even consider options like sliced pork loin. Beyond the meats, you will also need something on the sides, so think of salads, grilled veggies, breads and other options like potatoes. Salads can be added to the menu too, and depending on the items selected, you can discuss the estimates. Ensure that your buffet has enough variety and do include at least a couple of vegan and vegetarian options.
Check the basics
Some caterers may not be interested in certain locations and venues, and that is a relevant point to discuss. Also, decide on whether you want to hire a full-service catering service, or prefer to get servers additionally. For easy catering, it is always best to get a service that can take care of food, serving and everything else. They should also have liability insurance, trained staff, and must be willing to put all things discussed on paper. When you are organizing a considerably big event, you may want to think of dietary restrictions, and your caterer will help you decide on the buffet that has something for everyone.
Sampling is necessary
Caterers may charge for a tasting session, and that price is worth paying for. Just by looking at a few photos, you may not be able to decide on whether a catering service is worth your time, and therefore, sampling is critical. Also, do insist on checking their meats, especially if you want smoked or rare meats on the menu.
Get estimates
Of course, you have to get estimates in advance for your catering order, and we strongly suggest that you evaluate caterers based on professionalism, experience, expertise and ability to handle buffets. If that means hiring a service that charges more than an average company, that makes sense because you are spending huge on an event for which you need no compromises.
Check for caterers right away and book for the big day.
