No two Toronto event catering companies are the same. If you’re considering event catering for your next function, you want to pick one that offers all of the services you need.
There are many details to consider while shopping for a catering company. To book the catering company that’s right for you, ask these nine questions.
1. Are You Experienced with This Type of Event?
Serving 200 people is a much different story than serving 50 guests. From a reception hall to an office function, you want to be sure the company you choose is well equipped to cater the event you’re hosting. The experience a Toronto event catering company has is a good gauge of how well they handle obstacles in the catering industry.
2. Can You Adopt Dietary Restrictions?
With the increasing awareness of food allergies and dietary restrictions, you will need to find a caterer that is comfortable and skilled making all of your guests leave with a stomach full of amazing food. A good catering company can accommodate these changes and adapt their menu. They’re prepared to handle any food requests in order to meet all of your guests’ dietary needs. Ask them how they approach these challenges and their flexibility for providing a menu that’s delicious and flavourful for everyone.
3. Can I Have Referrals?
A reputable Toronto event catering company will have no problem passing on contact information from previous clients. This shows they have nothing to hide, and they’re confident in the services they provide. A refusal could indicate a problem in the past, where perhaps they did something wrong and don’t want it to be obvious.
Are you encountering companies that are unwilling to provide references? That’s a good sign you should move to the next caterer.
4. What’s Included in the Quote?
Breaking down the quote from any catering company shows you where your money is going. Ask the company to clearly indicate each fee and service in the estimate. They may include food but haven’t clearly listed dishware and linens. It may be a flat fee or mention “Additional Costs Extra.” Catering companies use different pricing plans. Be sure to get all the costs upfront to avoid hidden fees later on that take your budget overboard.
5. Where Is Your Food Sourced?
Knowing where food is purchased effects overall taste and quality. Fresh versus frozen, organic or local, and using what’s in season are all aspects that affect the meal. For optimal flavour, ask the Toronto event catering company where they buy their food. Purchasing from local farms and markets indicates they prioritize freshness and are able to provide a menu reflective of the seasons.
6. Do You Have Cuisine Specializations?
Are you looking for a specific cuisine and can the caterer provide it? If the company you’re looking at is unfamiliar with traditional Spanish tapas, and you’re looking to host a Spanish event, it’s best to pick a different caterer. Now is not the time to experiment.
The Toronto event catering company you choose should have extensive experience serving the ethnic dishes you’re looking to serve, with a proven ability to provide a meal that’s delicious and wows any crowd. An experienced company may also have companies they have partnered with in the past that could help make your menu pop.
7. Are You Licensed?
Going with a licensed caterer gives you peace of mind in knowing that any potential issue has legal recourse. Most venues, in addition to your own safety, request proof of permits for their own reassurance. You don’t want to run into health and liability problems. A licensed Toronto event catering company upholds local health standards and insurance.
8. Who Am I Dealing With?
Knowing the people you’ll be dealing with throughout the menu planning reduces the chance of miscommunication. Confirm who within the catering company you’ll be working with during this process. As the relationship evolves during the event planning stages, you want to enjoy your time with the caterer while also feeling confident they can handle your needs.
9. What’s Your Leftover Policy?
Knowing what Toronto event catering companies do with their leftovers says a lot about the company. Perhaps you want to ensure remaining food isn’t wasted and wonder if they send leftovers to a registered non-profit. Perhaps you’re looking forward to taking home boxes of remaining food. Leftovers factor in to the overall cost, eaten or not, so it’s good to know what you can expect.
