Catering is the process or business of preparing food and providing food services for clients at remote locations, such as hotels, restaurants, offices, concerts, and events. Catering companies offer food, drinks, and other services to various customers, typically for special occasions. Caterers are responsible for planning and executing all aspects of food service for an event, including determining menus, creating timelines, preparing and cooking food, and overseeing the serving of the food. Catering can also branch into event planning and management, especially for corporate clients. There are different types of catering services, including:
- Event Catering: Serving food at indoor and outdoor events, including corporate events and parties at home.
- Mobile Catering: Serving food directly from a vehicle, cart, or truck designed for the purpose. Mobile catering is common at outdoor events such as concerts, workplaces, and downtown business districts.
- Corporate Catering: Providing food and drinks to business and corporate functions, ranging from onsite small office gatherings to offsite upscale dinners.
- Concession Catering: Providing food and drinks at major sporting events, seasonal events, and fairs.
Catering is more than just preparing food and cleaning up after the party. Caterers also send waiters, waitresses, and busboys to set tables and serve meals during sit-down dining occasions.
