Comparing Caterers
Planning a catered event can involve wading thru a maze of proposals, fees & incomplete information. We’d like to help you to discover & evaluate your options, so that the final event plan is exactly what you choose.
Package Menus ~ Most Caterers initially quote you solely on the Menu. Later, costs for China, Silverware, Glassware, Linens & Catering Staff are added on. Five Star’s menu prices include all of these provisions. Be aware that hourly staff can easily run into overtime rates, since most events go over 8 hours when you count set up & breakdown time. At Five Star, you don’t have hourly rates.
Custom Menus & Budgets ~ On our website, you can see sample menus with full pricing details. You can mix & match them, or create your own completely customize your event plan. We specialize in weddings, and have designed a full range of services from the simple (& cost-saving), to the dream wedding. Let us know your vision, and we'll help you realize it!
Service ~ Is a separate “delivery fee” charged? If you’re hiring the catering team, that should include everythingthat they do for you. Watch also for Cake Cutting fees and Corkage fees (a per bottle cost for serving beverages that you provide yourself). The extras add up! (Five Star doesn’t charge these)
Service Charges ~ This is another phrase for the gratuity your catering staff receive. Your team starts working well before you see them ~ loading everything you need into trucks, driving to the site; and then of course, setting up, serving etc. After the event, they break everything down, clean the site, and return the equipment to the catering facility (clean dishes etc). Standard service charges are 18-20%, but should apply only to the food & beverage portion (ie not rental tables etc). Ask that any quote you’re given be totaled with tax & service.
Food Quality~ One key to fabulous flavors is using the finest in local produce, herbs, meats etc. and utilizing Organics wherever possible. Most great Chef’s have specialties, so ask for recommendations. Be sure your caterer does Not use any frozen or premade products, sauces or appetizers. Five Star makes everything from scratch, using our own proprietary recipes. We’re well known for our wonderful sauces & specialties.
Safety & Health Codes ~ Your caterer should have at least a $1 million liability insurance policy (in the event of any accident), and a current Health Dept. Permit. Please be VERY cautious of working with a caterer that operates without all of the above. If you are renting a facility, they will require copies of all of these documents, for your protection. Often, “Chefs” that cook from home have none of these items.
Style ~ There are many levels of décor, styles of service & extras you can use to enhance your event. It’s vital to convey your ideas to your caterer so that they can help you to achieve all you envision. From presenting Stations, to an elegance Buffet, Family Style or Seated service, you can define your ideal vision with Five Star.
Tasting ~ Five Star will be happy to arrange a tasting for you, once you have defined an initial menu concept. This tasting will help you narrow your selections, as well as any special requests. Be sure to mention any food allergies that you or your guests know of. Everyone’s tastes are different, so feel free to request a sauce be “mild” or “zesty”, or specify any other preferences you may have.
Final Notes ~ As with evaluating any service, you can often determine the type of service you’ll experience by how the initial proposal stage was handled. Was everything clearly described & detailed with all costs, right up front?
Do they really listen to your preferences & show flexibility? Will an owner or manager attend your event to assure that all is completed exactly as planned? Asking all of these questions can better prepare you to select the ideal caterer for your needs. We hope this information is helpful! (831) 600-5572
; "Beach Wedding")
; "Monarch Cove - a Gorgeous Venue!")
; "California Cuisine & Vegetarian with the Freshest ingredients ~ All Homemade!")
; "Buffets to Plated or Family Style Service")
; "Full Furnishings & Linens to complete your Elegant Settings")
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