Full Service Catering
Cafe' Orleans Catering
Cafe' Orleans Catering
Providing Authentic
New Orleans
Cuisines
Q: Is there a minimum order?
Because of the high demands for our company’s services, we have a minimum base order before service fee and taxes.
Q: What do I need to do to reserve catering for my event?
To reserve your date you will need to provide an estimated non-refundable down payment and a signed contract. We can discuss deposit options. We cannot reserve a date until we have received a deposit payment. We accept cash, checks, money orders, PayPal, and credit cards as payments.
Q: How far out should I reserve? Do I need a final menu and head count to book?
It is always wise to reserve your date as soon as possible. We are flexible if you need to change your date to another available day, and you won’t run the risk of getting turned down. Although in most cases we are able to cater an event with little notice and cater multiple events in one day, you will want to secure your day as soon as you are able. Your final menu and head count is not required until 2 weeks prior, so you can still book without knowing for certain your guest count or what you want to serve. The most important goal is reserving your date so you do not miss getting a good caterer.
Q: Will I run out of food?
We pride ourselves in providing plenty of food for every event. Estimate as close to an accurate guest count as possible, and leave the rest to us. Our chefs always make extra food, however it is important to notify your event coordinator and caterer if you are concerned a certain item might be popular and go fast at your event.
Q: Do items like hors d’ oeuvres only include one per person?
When adding up your guest count, don’t worry about your guests taking more than one hors d’oeuvre. Our chefs are professionally trained and experienced to provide enough of each item so that your guests can have extra.
Q: How do we estimate how many people will come?
There are many equations out there floating around on how to estimate your guest count. Although some of these equations may come close, it is always smart to go through your guest list and estimate who will actually come, and how many people they will bring. Take into consideration weddings that have happened in the same neighborhood, and ask them how many people they had attend. The average wedding has 200-300 people attend. Factor in if your family and friends are local, the day of the week, and the accessibility of the wedding location to your guests. All of these things will affect your number.
Q: Do you have a service charge?
Many caterers add on an 18% to 21% service charge to cover the costs of serving at your event. This fee that you pay never goes to the servers, and in many instances you are still expected to tip your servers. We do have an automatic 21% service fee added to all contracts that covers all expenses for you're event depending on the event. You will never be hit with hidden service, transportation, and plastic ware fees all will be discussed prior to signing your contract. Gratuity is not mandatory but is always welcomed.
Q: When is my second payment due?
We can provide you with a payment schedule. Your final head count is due 14 days prior and final payment is due 30 days prior to your event. If you add to your guest count after receipt of final payment your added guest payment is due at time of addition.
Q: Is there a fee if the event goes longer than three hours?
We are there to help you pull off a successful event and will not pack up without informing you. However, service and food quantity is for three hours only and once food runs out services is no longer needed so it's in your best interest to reserve the correct time frame which will provide you with enough food and service. If other events are scheduled we cannot extend time if not discussed prior to event.
Q: Do you have tastings?
We do offer free tastings for parties with estimated catering budgets over $2,000. Parties under this minimum will be required to pay a $50 tasting fee to cover the cost of food and kitchen staffs’ labor. Tastings are limited to two items only and up to 3 guests. We apologize for any inconvenience this might cause, however the large demand for our companies services, and the high request for tastings has made it impracticable for us to continue to offer free tastings for all parties.
Q: What quality of food and service should I expect?
Our food is made with the freshest ingredients available. We implement many classical techniques and recipes, and maintain some of the highest quality food available. We strive to keep the buffet well stocked and clean, tables well bussed, and keep you and your guests happy. We are easy to work with and guarantee to respond to any needs or inquiries within 24 hours.
Q: How much time do I need to give the caterer to set up?
Please allow approximately 2 hours for us to set up. This time is not guaranteed; rather it is an average arrival time. Please plan accordingly with your venue so that we have access to the facility approximately two hours prior to your serving time.
Q: Will I have big lines?
Generally lines are unavoidable. When hosting an event for more than 200 people make sure to provide enough space for a double-sided buffet line in different parts of the venue. Also, for receptions with over 300 people consider starting your event a half an hour earlier in order to spread out the flow of people. If you want people to eat all at once you must have enough space for a double-sided buffet. When serving a large group all at once anticipate some wait time, it is impossible to serve a large group immediately. In most cases, it is best to call tables by numbers.
Q: Can I cancel? Is my deposit nonrefundable?
You may cancel at any time, however your deposit is nonrefundable. Please understand the caterer is in many cases turning down other customers to provide service to you on your day. Furthermore, in many instances equipment and other resources may be purchased well ahead of time in planning. We understand in rare circumstances things may occur, please let us know well in advance as we may offer you a credit for a future event, please do not expect a cash refund though.