Finding the right Toronto catering company is easier than you think. When you know where to start and which questions to ask, you’ll have a caterer booked in no time at all.
Read the Reviews
You could just choose the first hit on Google, but you’d have no idea if you’re picking the right guy. Talk to previous clients, friends, and referrals—you need to go beyond the caterer to ensure you’ve found the right one and receive the information you need to make an informed decision. The quality of the wait staff and the company’s attention to detail are just a few factors to consider that impact the rate, the food, and their fit for your event.
If you’re just looking at reviews, consider asking the caterers themselves for referrals. You need to check up on these businesses, and the best way to do that is by talking to past clients. A good company will have no problem sharing its history so you can make a good decision.
You want to hear the good, the bad, and the ugly. These insights are nuggets of information necessary to final decisions.
Shop Around
Just like reading multiple reviews, it’s best to look at multiple Toronto catering services. You can learn how to compare catering companies to make an informed decision. Take a few calls and compare what each one offers. Menu availability, wait staff, furniture rental, glassware inclusion, and prep and clean-up are just a few things some services do or don’t cover.
Each caterer offers different services at different prices—you want to find the right company that covers all your needs. Some only prepare food while others serve it. Other companies even provide linens and cutlery. Explore different options, while keeping in mind which company combines as many additional services as possible. This is a significant purchase where you don’t want to be disappointed on the day of the event.
Talk to Venues
Venue managers work with caterers all the time, and they’re used to hosting a variety of events. From cocktail receptions to DIY food stations to traditional plated dinners, a venue that’s hosted multiple acts will have a good idea of what works best within certain spaces. They talk to caterers all the time and would be able to provide vetted recommendations. They know which companies live up to the standards and the services they advertise.
Some venues have their own requirements in terms of amenities and allowances, so if you have a space locked in, they’re best to talk to for catering recommendations. Preferred vendor lists act as great starting points when researching catering companies.
Budget Accordingly
The right catering company fits within your financial means. You won’t be happy to find out your dream caterer is way off-budget. Making assumptions about whether something is included or not could result in serious consequences on the day of the event. Ask for detailed quotes while shopping around—you want to know exactly what you’re getting and the cost upfront in case you have to adjust the budget for costs elsewhere.
Confirm Availability
The caterer isn’t useful if they’re unavailable when you need them. On top of all the other things to consider, the right caterer is available on the day of your party. Caterers book fast. Start researching Toronto catering companies early to see who’s available when you need them.
Finding the best office catering in Toronto is easy to do. With these tips in mind, you’ll find the right caterer in no time at all.
