Your Event Planning
Queries Answered

What types of events do you cater to?

We cater to a wide range of events, including weddings, corporate gatherings, fundraisers/auctions, social events, and more. Our goal is to provide exceptional catering services tailored to your specific event needs.

How far in advance should I book your services?

We recommend booking as early as possible, especially for popular dates. This allows us to ensure availability and provide ample time for event planning. Last minute order? Give us a call and we’ll try our best to accommodate it.

Can I customize my menu?

Yes, absolutely! We understand that every event is unique, and we are happy to work with you to create a customized menu that aligns with your preferences and dietary requirements.

What areas do you serve in?

We take pride in providing catering services across the greater Seattle area and its surrounding region. From urban events in the heart of the city to celebrations in more remote locations, we are dedicated to bringing our culinary expertise and exceptional service to you.

Are you available on weekends?

We are closed on Sunday/Holiday weekends. For Saturday events we have a $1,500 food and beverage minimum for any deliveries or staffed events.

Do you have delivery fees?

No, we do not charge delivery fees within the greater Seattle area. Our aim is to provide transparent and inclusive pricing for our services.

How do I place a catering order?

Contact our catering team by phone, email, or our online ordering system. We’ll guide you through the process, discuss your preferences, and provide a customized quote.

What types of cuisine do you offer?

Our culinary team specializes in a wide range of cuisines, from American, Italian, Mexican, Asian to picnic food! Whether you desire traditional flavors or innovative dishes, we have the expertise to craft the perfect menu.

Do you accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies?

Yes, we take dietary restrictions and allergies seriously. Please let us know in advance, and we will provide suitable options for your guests.

Can you provide tastings before the event?

Yes, we offer tastings to help you select the perfect dishes for your event. Contact us for more information.

How is the food presented?

Whether it's an elegant buffet setup complete with catering supplies or a delivery of compostable and recyclable platters, we take pride in ensuring that our presentation is not only aesthetically pleasing but also enhances the overall dining experience.

How do you handle leftovers?

We always provide containers for any leftover foods. Our team can guide you on the best practices for storing and enjoying any remaining dishes.

What precautions do you take to ensure food safety for events?

We adhere to strict food safety standards in the preparation, handling, and delivery of our catering services. Our team follows industry best practices to ensure the safety and well-being of all attendees.

Do you have preferred venues?

Yes, we have a growing selection of preferred venues within the greater Seattle area. Please visit our ‘Venues’ tab to find out more.

Can I choose my own venue?

Of course! We are flexible and can cater at a location of your choice, whether it’s a private residence, a unique outdoor space, or another event venue. Contact our event specialists for more information.

What is your payment process?

We require a 25% deposit to secure your date, with the remaining balance due closer to your event.

What are your minimums?

• For our quick lunch orders (Monday to Friday 10am – 2pm), the minimum is $250.
• For any other weekday events or deliveries, the minimum is $750.
• Saturday events or deliveries have a minimum of $1,500.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept various forms of payment, including credit cards, checks, and bank transfers.

What is your cancellation policy?

Our cancellation policy depends on the size and nature of the event. Please contact your event coordinator for specific details regarding cancellation. In general, we can provide a full refund, excluding the 25% deposit, if your event is canceled more than 48 hours in advance.

Can you accommodate last-minute orders?

While we recommend placing orders well in advance, we understand that sometimes plans change. Contact our catering team and we’ll do our best to accommodate your request based on availability.

Are there any additional fees, such as service charges or gratuities?

We will provide you with a transparent breakdown of all costs associated with your catering order, including any service charges. Gratuity is always optional! Our goal is to ensure clarity in pricing and avoid any unexpected charges.

Do you offer event planning services?

While we specialize in catering, we can also provide recommendations for event planners and coordinators to help you with other aspects of your event.

Can you assist with rentals and decor?

Yes, we can help coordinate rentals, decor, and other event-related services to ensure a seamless and well-coordinated event.

What kind of personalized menu and package options do you offer for weddings?

We can customize one of our existing packages or even use a family recipe to create a unique item just for your event!

Can we schedule a tasting before booking?

Yes! And the tasting fee is applied to your catering balance when you book with us!

What is the booking process for wedding catering?

Once you have selected us as your caterer, we secure your date with a deposit. An event coordinator will be available to fine tune your menu selections.

How far in advance should we book our wedding catering?

We recommend no later than 6 months prior to your wedding date. But if another caterer left you high and dry at the last minute, give us a call and we’ll do our best to help you out!

Do you provide service staff for the event?

Yes, we can provide staff for set up until clean up.

Do you provide bar service as well?

Chef Dane Catering offers full bar service including beer, wine, cocktails and experienced bartenders to serve your guests! Please note, Chef Dane does not provide bar staff without the purchase of alcohol. Not to worry! We would be happy to connect you with a local bartending company that can meet your bar staffing needs.

Can we provide our own alcohol?

Due to liability reasons, we will provide all alcoholic beverages.

Can we customize the catering package to fit our budget?

We work within all ranges of budget. Speak with a wedding coordinator to see what options best fit you!

Do you offer dessert options or wedding cakes?

We have a variety of decadent dessert options; however, we don't currently offer wedding cakes.

Can you cater for large or intimate weddings?

We can accommodate weddings of any size!

How do you handle last-minute changes or special requests?

We understand the need to make changes, our event coordinator works directly with our kitchen to ensure all requests are communicated.

Can you accommodate cultural or themed weddings?

Our kitchen can create custom recipes that adhere to cultural requirements or enhance your wedding theme.

Can you provide menu options for brunch, cocktail hour or late-night snacks?

Yes, we can take care of all your catering needs, from the rehearsal dinner to sweet and savory brunch, bite-size appetizers for cocktail hour and late-night snacks!

What is included in your wedding catering service?

We are your all-inclusive catering service! Our team is well trained to handle every aspect of the catering service on your dream day: from set-up to clean-up, to taste & presentation, we ensure the food & drink is a highlight of your event.

How do you handle portion sizes to ensure there is enough food for everyone?

From appetizers to entrees, we will talk through the menu with you to curate the perfect meal, and we will ensure that no guests go home hungry.

Can you help with wedding rentals (tables, chairs, linens, etc.)?

Our wedding coordinators can work directly with our local supplier to provide all the necessary rentals for your wedding day.

Do you require a deposit?

Yes, we require a 25% deposit to secure your date.

Do you have a service fee and what does that cover?

Yes, the service fee covers a range of operational and logistic needs to ensure smooth event execution. Part of the service fee is used for employee benefits, and part of it goes directly to your service team.

Does the bar set-up fee cover the banquet permits for the venue?

No. You must provide the banquet permit for your event, or we can help you get one for a nominal fee.

How soon do you arrive before the event?

We typically arrive 1 to 1.5 hours prior to the event to set up the buffet; however, we will adjust arrival times depending on the needs of your event.

Our venue doesn’t have a kitchen, how do you handle that?

Your event coordinator will work with our chef to ensure your menu items do not require on-site prep and our staff will bring all necessary equipment for food service.

Can your staff do passed appetizers or plated dinners?

Certainly, all of our staff are trained in both!

I would love a signature cocktail, is that something you can do?

We would love to create a custom cocktail for your special day!

How soon before my wedding do I have to finalize my menu and guest count?

We require the menu and guest count to be finalized 2 weeks prior to your wedding date.

When is my final payment due?

Final payment is due 24 hours or the next business day following your wedding.