Types of Catering Services: Overview | Catering Zone

Types of Catering Services

types of catering services

Two Main Types of Catering Services: Overview & Guideline

When most people think about catering, they usually think of one of two things: on-premises or off-premises catering. On-premises catering is when the caterer sets up a temporary kitchen at the event location, while off-premises catering is when the caterer brings all of their supplies from their own kitchen to the event. There are pros and cons to both types of catering, and it's important to understand what they are before you decide which type is right for your business. In this blog post, we will discuss types of catering and what makes them unique!

On-premises catering

Events that are being conducted in locations that do not have their own kitchen facilities are a perfect opportunity to take advantage of on-premises catering services. If you are dealing with a limited budget or have certain dietary constraints, this kind of catering gives you the ability to be in charge of the food preparation, which may be a significant benefit. On-premises catering, on the other hand, requires that you hire a cooking area as well as the necessary equipment in order to provide the service. This might result in a somewhat higher price tag than off-premises catering.

Off-premises catering

When it comes to events that are being conducted in locations that have their own kitchen facilities, off-premises catering is a fantastic alternative to consider. Because you won't need to hire a cooking area or any of the necessary equipment for this form of catering, you'll be able to save money on rental fees. In addition, since you won't be responsible for making the food yourself, off-premises catering is typically less stressful than on-premises catering. This is because of the elimination of this burden. However, one disadvantage of off-site catering is that you will have less control over the preparation of the food. This means that dietary restrictions might not be able to be handled as readily as they would be if the catering were done on the premises.

Types of catering services you should be know

Let's talk about some of the different types of catering services that you should be aware of now that we've gone through the two main types of catering.

Catering for weddings

Wedding catering is one of the most popular forms of catering. Wedding catering can be on-site or off-site, but it's worth noting that wedding catering is typically more expensive than other forms of food due to a large number of visitors. Furthermore, wedding catering sometimes necessitates more employees than other types of catering, so keep that in mind when planning your budget.

Catering for corporate events

Catering for business occasions is another common sort of catering. Corporate event catering might be on-site or off-site, but it's worth noting that corporate event catering typically need more employees than other forms of catering. Furthermore, because there are frequently a large number of visitors, corporate event catering is usually more expensive than other forms of catering.

Catering for private parties

Private party catering can be on-premises or off-premises, but it's worth noting that because there are generally fewer people, private party catering is often less expensive than other forms of food. Additionally, private party catering frequently needs fewer staff members than other forms of catering, so keep that in mind when planning your budget.

Catering for festivals

Festival food can be on-premises or off-premises, but it's crucial to keep in mind that because of the high volume of people, festival catering tends to be more expensive than other sorts of catering. A larger workforce is frequently required for festival catering than for other types of food, so keep that in mind when putting together your budget.

Catering for sporting events

Sporting event catering can be on-premises or off-premises, but it's worth noting that because there are generally a lot of people attending, it's often more expensive than other sorts of food. Furthermore, athletic event catering sometimes needs more employees than other forms of catering, so keep that in mind when planning your budget.

Catering for conferences

Conference catering can be on-premises or off-premises, however, it's worth noting that conference food is typically more expensive than other forms of catering due to a large number of attendees. Furthermore, conference catering sometimes needs more employees than other forms of catering, so keep that in mind when planning your budget.

Catering for conventions

Convention catering can be on-site or off-site, but it's worth noting that because there are generally a lot of people attending, it's often more expensive than other forms of catering. Furthermore, conference catering sometimes needs more employees than other forms of catering, so keep that in mind when planning your budget.

Catering for Restaurants

Catering for restaurants can take place either on or off the premises of the restaurant. However, it is crucial to remember that restaurant catering is typically more cost-effective than other forms of catering because there are typically fewer people at restaurant catering events. In addition, restaurant catering often calls for a smaller workforce than other forms of catering, so remember to include that aspect of the cost in your calculations as well.

Catering Buffet Style

It is important to note that catering in the style of a buffet can take place either on the premises or outside the premises. However, it is vital to remember that catering in the style of a buffet is frequently less expensive than other forms of catering since there are typically fewer people. In addition, catering in the manner of a buffet typically calls for a smaller workforce than other types of catering, therefore it is essential that you account for this aspect of the cost when developing your budget.

Catering for Airlines

The catering for an airline can take place either on the premises or outside the premises. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that airline catering is typically more expensive than other forms of catering because there are typically a large number of visitors present. Additionally, in comparison to other forms of catering, aircraft catering typically calls for a larger crew, therefore it is essential to include that cost in your financial planning as well.

Catering by Food Truck

Food truck catering may take place either on or off the premises. However, it is crucial to remember that food truck catering is typically more cost-effective than other forms of catering due to the fact that there are typically fewer visitors at food truck catering events. In addition, food truck catering typically calls for a smaller crew than other forms of catering, therefore it is essential that you take this into consideration when developing your financial plan.

Services of a Personal Chef

It is crucial to note that personal chef services are often more expensive than other forms of catering due to the fact that there are typically a large number of people present at the event being catered. Personal chef services may be provided either on the premises or off the premises. In addition, the provision of personal chef services typically necessitates the employment of a larger workforce than the provision of other forms of catering; hence, it is essential that this element be incorporated into your financial plan.

How do you know which catering service is right for you?

The answer to this question may vary depending on a number of different aspects, such as the kind of gathering you are hosting, the number of people you anticipate, and your available spending money. The one that is the finest fit for you and will meet your requirements to the greatest extent should have the following characteristics:

  • The scale of the event
  • The number of guests
  • Your financial circumstances
  • What kind of cuisine you'd like to be served
  • The event's formal or casualness
  • The event's formal or casualness
  • The venue for the event
  • The event will take place at any time of day or night.
  • Whether or whether you require alcohol to be provided at the event
  • Your unique preferences

It is time to start making plans for your next event now that you have a better understanding of the many aspects of catering. If you are still unsure about the sort of catering service that would best meet your requirements, you can speak with us. Catering Zone is one of the top-rated catering companies in Sydney, Australia. and we would be more than happy to discuss your options with you in detail. Contact us today to get started!

Catering services can make or break an event. If you are looking for a catering company that will provide delicious food, prompt service, and competitive prices, then Catering Zone is the right choice for you. We have a wide range of menu options to choose from, and our team of experienced chefs will work with you to create a custom menu that is sure to impress your guests. Contact us today to get started!

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Sammy See , 01/07/2025

I paid over $249 for an order of sandwiches, rice balls and party pies. The quality of the order was extremely disappointing. The food was borderline inedible, with the texture of cardboard. Hardly and filling in the sandwich, Was it left out on the benchtop overnight? The quality would be unacceptable for a $5 special from the supermarket, let alone premium priced supposedly gourmet sandwiched. Gluten free does not translate to dry and rough. I hope this is not reflective of the standard of your catering, as I would hate for other customer to have the same experience.”

Elizabeth Bush , 27/05/2025

EXCELLENT PRODUCTS AS USUAL. I would certainly recommend for any occasion - thus far I have done a "finger food" package for a cocktail party and just recently a selection of "morning tea" goodies (sandwiches and cakes) for a birthday high tea. YUM YUM YUM. Well packaged and presented and extremely easy to order and pick up. My photo doesn't really do the goodies justice and the stuff displayed wasn't even the half of it :)

Chris Lamb , 27/02/2025

I'm very impressed with the catering. Easy online ordering process and I only gave them two days notice. The quality of the food is very good and was brought to our door on time, hot and ready to serve. Will use them again.

Wendy Stanway , 29/12/2024

I needed some finger sandwiches and mini cakes for a recent funeral I was organising and googled finger sandwiches and up Catering Zone. It was easy to select what I wanted, see how the food was presented and cost. Ordered before 3pm for next day delivery. By the time I arrived at the venue the orders had already arrived. Easy! I would definitely use Catering Zone again. Even their request for a review was easy, only two questions and summit.

Rae Riga , 15/12/2024

We needed to organise a wedding in 3 weeks due to a family members terminal diagnosis and ordered online for pick up. The food surpassed all expectations and was just amazing. Our order included chocolate covered strawberries and they were flavourful and everyone enjoyed them. We got cannoli which were large, crunchy and yummy. We got a selection of sandwiches and brioche rolls and all the fillings were delicious. The pies and sausage rolls were flavourful and our guests loved them. Thank you so much catering zone for making our wedding memorable with your wonderful food! We will absolutely be recommending your business to family and friends.

Brett Saunders , 09/03/2024

Last minute requirement for one of our groups requiring same day service. Exceptionally handled by Harry & the team. We'll be back!

Darroll Allart , 19/05/2023

I often require catering for hospital events and came across Catering Zone. The food is exactly as you see it on the website. The range available is incredible and the food has been fantastic and well received by customers. It presents very well. I would add that if you're ordering outside the delivery area then to give them a call as they can sort something out if it's not too far or charge accordingly.

minty chives , 03/04/2023

We made several orders this week and all were delivered on time and with good care. We are so very happy with the service, variety and quality of products and will continue to order through Catering Zone. I just wanted to say Thank You on behalf of my team! Also a feature worth mentioning for businesses, ordering through the online account makes it easy to track and manage and the Tax Invoice in downloadable.

Sandy J , 23/10/2022

Happy Guests - The feedback from our course participants was fantastic! The food arrived on time and like it had just been made to order. Selections were fresh and everything tasted great. The serves were generous which is important as the last thing you want is to run out of food at an event. So happy we found Catering Zone... They will be our first choice for all our events.

Karen Rugamas , 16/12/2019

We had a great experience with the Catering Zone during our Annual Holiday Party. Great amount of food selection , ordering and delivery was seamless, great communication all the way through. We felt we received great value for money and will definitely be repeat customers for future events

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