The US caterers industry is already worth a staggering $16.0bn in 2022. With such vast revenues available, it’s no surprise there are many businesses seeking to make a profit by providing consumers with high-quality catering services.
But, how can you choose a catering service that can meet and exceed your expectations? When you’re organizing an event, the last thing you want is for people to be complaining about their meals. The good news is you can look for several crucial factors that separate the best caterers from their rivals.
Let’s dive in and learn more about hiring a top-class catering firm.
Food Quality
The first priority on your list should be the quality of the food. You can ask to visit the company for a sample tasting session, and it’s a good idea to bring along another person for a second opinion. If you have a specific menu in mind, be sure to ask for samples of the food you’ll be ordering.
Industry Experience
Some companies may specialize in catering for corporate events or catering for weddings, and this is ideal if you need their services for such an occasion. However, if you are throwing a private party, you may be better off hiring a firm with experience in that area.
A company that has been in the industry for many years may also have its own equipment. However, you may need your venue to provide certain catering appliances. You can view here for more information on the best catering equipment used by some of the best firms.
Customer Reviews
While you can read online customer reviews, you should take these with a pinch of salt as some of the comments may not be authentic. It’s good practice to ask for opinions from others who have used a company’s services, and to inquire if the caterers keep a list of verified client testimonials.
Availability
When considering your options for catering services, don’t forget to ask about a business’s availability. You don’t want them trying to squeeze your event in between other commitments, as this could sacrifice the quality of their service. Make sure they have set aside a reasonable time period to cater for your occasion to give you peace of mind they will provide an outstanding meal.
Value for Money
When comparing catering costs, take some time to check you need all the services listed on the quote. Some companies may offer additional options such as providing cutlery or staying to serve guests throughout your event. If you don’t need some of their services, you could remove these from the quote and reduce your final bill.
Do Your Research Before You Choose a Catering Service
It can be daunting to choose a catering service, but you can make the process easier by asking the right questions. Inquire about a business’s industry experience, and check if they have a list of client testimonials. You should also confirm they have plenty of time to cater for your event, and that they offer a fair pricing structure that is within your budget.
When you hire the right catering partner, your guests will rave about the delicious food they enjoyed at your event!
Before you rush off to hire a catering company, be sure to check out more great posts in our Lifestyle section.
