Catering questions, checklist and tips

Catering Checklist

How can I save money?

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How far in advance should I make arrangements with my caterer?

As soon as possible is best to secure your date. However, at The French Gourmet we may be able to accommodate you even on short notice. Unlike most caterers, we have a retail outlet, and restaurant, which allows us to facilitate last minute needs.

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What menu style am I looking for?

Hors d' Oeuvre? A Buffet or Station? Sit Down Dinner? Check out our menu styles for ideas.

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What service style am I looking for?

Full Service? Partial Service? Delivery and Set-Up? Check out our service styles for more ideas.

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How many guests will be attending?

You will need an estimated guest count to begin with. The final guest count can be made a week prior to your event.

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What time of day is the event? How will this affect the type and quantity of food served?

The time of day will make a difference. Be sure to ask your catering consultant for advice.

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Will I need rental equipment? Can my caterer provide this?

The French Gourmet can provide china, glassware, place settings. skirted tables, tables, chairs, and more.

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Does my caterer have a liquor license?

The French Gourmet is fully insured and licensed by the State of California to vend and serve alcoholic beverages.

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Where will my event be held?

The French Gourmet can recommend many event locations city wide, or suggest ways in which your home or office can be used. Contact a French Gourmet catering consultant and take a look at our More Services page for information.

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What are the specifications of the location?

Our catering experts are familiar with many locations, and can advice you the best layout for your event.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What information should I have available when inquiring about catering?

An estimate of the number of guests you plan to invite, a date and the type of location you are considering is helpful. The parameters of your budget are also important. Keep in mind that the time of day influences the amount of food necessary, and consequently the cost of your catering.

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Will the quotation I am given be all-inclusive?

The French Gourmet will send you a written itemized proposal based on your inquiry. As full-service caterers, we can fulfill many needs besides the food. Including china, glassware, place settings, skirted display tables, waiters, bartenders, valet parking, furniture and equipment rentals, tents, flowers or other special decorations, referrals for musicians and other entertainment, and even the location of your event.

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Lately it seems like I am offered the same fare at every party I attend. - How can I make my party different?

At the French Gourmet, each menu is individually planned with you. You can incorporate your decor, party theme, and any special recipes ideas that will help make your party the memorable occasion it should be.

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My schedule is very busy. - Do I have to have a meeting in person to make my catering arrangements?

Most of the arrangements can be made on the phone, by e-mail or by mail, if you prefer. We welcome personal meetings as it gives you the opportunity to both sense and taste the quality of our products. We would be happy to make an appointment for you with one of our full-time professional catering consultants at your convenience. Evening and Saturday appointments can be arranged. An appointment at the party location can also be very useful in helping to plan the logistics and familiarizing us with the space available.

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How can I be sure that my caterer is reliable and competent?

Check for experience, references, and ask to sample some of the things you are considering on your menu. The French Gourmet's restaurant and bakery are located at 960 Turquoise Street in Pacific Beach. We welcome your visit to taste samples. In San Diego since 1979 under the ownership of professional Chef, Michel Malécot, The French Gourmet is the caterer of choice of many local residents, companies, and institutions. The French Gourmet is a proud member of the National Association of Catering Executives (NACE) and the International Special Events Society (ISEC). Our commitment to excellence, quality and value make us a leader in the San Diego catering industry. The same degree of quality and professionalism goes into every job we do.

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Are there advantages to having my business event catered in my office rather than at a restaurant or banquet facility?

Changes in the tax laws in 1987 look more favorably on the business lunch or dinner that is catered in house, and certainly privacy in business-related discussions and more effective use of company time is a consideration.

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Will I save money providing the champagne wine and liquor myself?

Not necessarily. The French Gourmet is fully insured and licensed by the State of California to vend and serve alcoholic beverages. Your options include a full bar, in which we provide the liquor, mixers, ice, bar fruits, and other garnishes, glasses and napkins. If you provide the liquor, you will need a bar set-up, which is all the above except the liquor. If you choose to have us provide the wine and champagne, you will only be charged for the open bottles. Our large volume allows us to price our champagne and wines very competitively. You may find that the benefits of not having to worry about procuring the liquor or of running short, combined with our expertise in recommending wines and the wide range of sources available from wholesalers, outweigh the savings, if any, you might make.

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Everybody in the office is making their specialties for our office party, and we really only need a few items. Can you help?

Of course. We are more than happy to incorporate any dishes you would like to provide in our full service catering, or if you are on a tight budget but would still like to enjoy our quality and convenience, party food is available on take-out trays for you to pick up or for us to deliver. Plan your menu easily online with our "Parties Made Easy" Guide or email us.

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I would love to have my party catered, but I am having trouble finding a location.

We are aware of many reception/banquet facilities due to our extensive experience in catering events citywide. Or we can suggest ways in which your home or office space can be maximized.

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