Catering in Palm Springs

What Should You Look for In A Caterer?

When you want to hire a caterer for the first time, prepare a list of questions to ask each prospective catering company. Below are some sample questions for your introductory meeting to create a standard checklist. This will help you determine which caterer will meet your needs.
 

• Can you work within my maximum budget?
   
• Will you create a custom menu based on my cuisine preferences?
   
• Will I have an opportunity to conduct a tasting before my event?
   
• What do you provide from a service standpoint – food, staff, equipment?
   
• Will I need to provide any support for the catering at this price point?
   
• Can you accommodate my event date?
   
• Do you specialize in my type of event – wedding caterer, corporate events, casual get-togethers?
   
• Will you handle cleanup? Will I need to drop off equipment?

 

What Are Your Catering Needs? 

The Palm Springs Palette is delighted and ready to make your catered event a success. We use fresh organic ingredients, custom menus, and have the professional staff to create the experience you need with plated meals or full-service catering for your next event.

Whatever your catering needs, we’re here to listen and help you design a memorable, delicious experience for your guests. Just fill out our scheduling form today, and we’ll have one of our team members contact you to answer all your questions.
 

What’s The Difference Between a Private Chef and a Caterer?

A caterer is equipped to handle a larger event than a private chef. A catered event usually has a lower cost-per-plate fee than a private chef’s cost-per-plate because caterers offer a set menu and can prepare food in larger batches than a private setting needs.
 
A private chef is more effective in preparing a customized meal for a smaller, more intimate group. Consider a private chef for groups under 20 people, where individual dietary restrictions and culinary preferences can be more personalized to a smaller group.
 
Many Palm Springs area private chefs can also operate as caterers. Catering services from a private chef may be more specialized and affordable than working with a large catering venue.
 

Do Caterers Provide Drinks for My Event?

The Palm Springs Palate can work with you to create a drink list menu and shopping list for you to use. We offer bartending services as an add-on service if needed.
 
Some catering services can provide drinks for your event, but it is often not included in the foodservice pricing. You’ll usually be given a separate quote depending on what drink service you want.
 
When considering which catering service to choose based on your budget, remember to ask whether the caterer will offer the glassware or disposable drinkware to serve your guests. This is usually an extra cost, so plan accordingly.
 

Bar Service Is Usually Not Included in Catering Price

While many caterers offer food and beverage services, you should expect to work with two different catering specialists on your overall budget and order. When you want to include alcoholic drinks at your catered event, the caterer will need to provide a liquor license and a certified bartender to meet most venue requirements. You’ll also have the additional cost of purchasing the spirits on most catering orders.
 

Can A Caterer Cook On-Site for My Event?

It depends. You’ll need to speak directly with your caterer to ensure they are following proper food handling regulations and that the event facility is authorized for a catering event. Many caterers will prepare the food in an authorized commercial space and set the food up at your event site. Most caterers provide setup and cleanup in their per-person price, and the cost for transportation is usually included in the catering fee.
 
The Palm Springs Palate would love to assist you with your full-service catering menu and event planning. Complete our scheduling form to provide essential details so we can contact you to answer all your questions. We look forward to providing you with outstanding food and service.