Great food is the cornerstone of any memorable event, whether you're planning a wedding, a birthday, or a full corporate function. Finding the right caterers is the difference between a forgettable event and one people are still talking about – so if you're weighing up options for your next catering event, these 10 tips will help you get there.

What Should You Look For in Caterers?

The right caterers balance four things: a solid reputation, a price that fits your budget, the flexibility to work with your venue and vision, and real experience running events like yours. Check all four before you sign anything, and you'll avoid most of the problems people run into with catering events.

1. Online Reputation

Caterers handle events of every shape and size, and in an industry driven by word of mouth, reputation matters. Read reviews, check for industry awards, and don't be afraid to ask for references from past clients before committing.

2. Keep the Budget in Mind

There's no shortage of catering services in London, but budget is what narrows the field fastest. Work out your total event budget and how much of it you're allocating to food before you start comparing quotes.

If you've got your heart set on something ambitious but a tighter budget, a good caterer will suggest ways to make it work – serving sushi as a passed appetiser, for example, rather than booking a dedicated sushi chef for the whole event. If you want a catering service that will build a bespoke quote around your budget, Le Bab Catering is a solid place to start.

3. The Proof of the Pudding

However good the reviews look, book a tasting before you commit. It's the only way to get a real sense of the food, ask about modifications, and see how the caterer handles requests in person rather than on paper.

4. Read the Contract (Thoroughly!)

Once you've picked your caterers, get everything in writing and actually read it – every clause. Ask them to walk you through anything you're unsure about so both sides go in with the same expectations.

5. Check for Licenses and Certifications

Every catering business needs a valid license from the relevant food authority. This isn't paperwork for its own sake – it's what guarantees the food is prepared under proper hygiene standards.

6. Caterers With a Flexible Attitude

The best caterers listen to what you actually want rather than pushing a fixed package. Sit down with them early, ask the questions that matter to you, and gauge how accommodating they're willing to be before you sign anything.

7. Think About the Venue

Outside caterers who've worked your venue before have a head start – they'll already know the kitchen access, timings, and any quirks of the space. It's not essential, but it removes a few unknowns. If they haven't worked there before, it's worth asking them to visit ahead of the event. Local caterers in particular often have this kind of venue familiarity built in, simply from working the same circuit repeatedly.

8. Appropriate Service and Staff

Food is only half the job – the people serving it matter just as much. Confirm the caterer is sending professional, well-trained staff, and that the headcount matches what your event actually needs, before the contract is signed.

9. Size of the Event

Not every catering business is built for every scale. Some outside caterers specialise in large corporate catering events; others are much better suited to small, intimate gatherings. Ask directly about their experience with events similar in size to yours.

10. Always Have a Backup Plan Ready

Even the perfect caterer can run into the unexpected – weather, equipment issues, a sick chef. Have a contingency in place so a single hiccup doesn't derail the whole event.

Trust your instincts throughout this process. If something feels off about a caterer, even with glowing reviews, it's worth listening to that. Bringing a trusted friend or colleague into the final decision can also take some of the pressure off.

Looking for something a little different for your next event? Le Bab Catering builds bespoke menus around your budget, whether it's a wedding, a private dinner, or a full corporate event in London.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between outside caterers and an in-house catering team?

Outside caterers are hired specifically for an event and bring their own kitchen team, equipment and menu, while an in-house team is tied to a specific venue. Outside caterers usually offer more flexibility on menu and style.

Are local caterers better than caterers travelling from further away?

Not automatically, but local caterers often know nearby venues already, which can smooth out logistics on the day. It's worth weighing that against a caterer's specific menu or experience if they're based further out.

How far in advance should I book caterers for a catering event?

Most caterers recommend booking 2–3 months ahead for a straightforward event, and 6+ months for a wedding or large corporate function, especially around peak seasons.

What should be included in a catering contract?

A clear breakdown of menu, headcount, staffing, timings, cancellation terms and total cost – read every clause before signing, and ask the caterer to explain anything unclear.

How do I check if caterers are properly licensed?

Ask for their food hygiene certificate and confirm it's issued by the relevant local authority. A reputable caterer will have this ready without hesitation.