Find a catering service in Palm Desert, CA

Find catering services in Palm Desert, CA

Find catering services in Palm Desert, CA

Share a few details and we'll show you the best catering services in your area.
Zip code

Budget per person

Find catering services in Palm Desert, CA

Share a few details and we'll show you the best catering services in your area.
Zip code

Budget per person

Top 10 catering services in Palm Desert, CA

Clients agree: these Palm Desert catering services are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
Pacific Coast Palate

Pacific Coast Palate

New on Fash
2 hires on Fash
3+ years in business
Serves Palm Desert, CA
Not your average caterer but your culinary experience. We have several highly trained chefs on the team, fine dining trained servers, mixologists to bartend, a creative director to assure the food syncs with your overall theme, and an event coordinator to make sure your event goes smooth as butter. We will work with you to customize a menu, assist you with table settings and all of your staffing needs. We bring the 5 star dinning to you and your guests.
Curbservn

Curbservn

5.0(3)
5+ years in business
Serves Palm Desert, CA
Lee Lee L. says, "The customer service is great. The food was delicious. Seasoned very well. I do highly recommend this place you won't be disappointed." Read more
Jordan’s Creative Catering

Jordan’s Creative Catering

New on Fash
1 hire on Fash
20+ years in business
Serves Palm Desert, CA
Fresh food. Great quality and service
Jones Squad Rentals LLC

Jones Squad Rentals LLC

5.0(2)
Offers online services
9 hires on Fash
14+ years in business
Serves Palm Desert, CA
Nathan P. says, "They are an amazing company really customer oriented.would recommend them to anyone in the I.E. area." Read more
Mr. WorldWide Catering

Mr. WorldWide Catering

New on Fash
14+ years in business
Serves Palm Desert, CA
Our mission at Mr. WorldWide Catering is providing quality service. Food is our passion, therefore no matter how large or how small the event we cook from the heart. Our focus is freshness, quality, and affordability. Choosing Mr. WorldWide Catering for your next event will leave you with a memorable culinary experience. Chef Jose Carbajal has received his training and expertise from the International Culinary Academy at the Art Institute. Food is a passion for Chef Jose. His love of food comes from his family who often gathers to share a meal and spend time with one another. His respect for diversity is the driving force behind his hunger fo...
Taste Budds 101

Taste Budds 101

New on Fash
Serves Palm Desert, CA
I love what i do (Pleasing Bellies) Personal Chef ( Singles, intimate Dinner for 2, Group, Gathering, Functions, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Corporate Full Comfort Food Catering ( Ribs, Fry/Bake Chicken, Turkey Chops, Salmon, Mac & Chz, Greens, Rice Pilaf etc… Flat Top Grill Master( Taco Man, Brunch, Breakfast, Burgers Night, Steaks, ect. Frozen Gourmet TV Dinners ( prepare 3 different meals a week, freeze, deliver) The satisfaction I get is when I see the guests Feeling Good and Full by the look on their faces. Being Jolly, coming back for more, complimenting on great service & flavorful food.

Your Wedding and Event Catering questions, answered

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Fash.

How much is catering?

Catering costs $10 to $35 per person for basic party food or a drop-off service. On average, caterers charge $500 to $7,500 total for 50 guests, $1,000 to $15,000 for 100 guests, and $1,500 to $23,000 for 150 guests. Alcohol or bartending options often cost extra.

Formal catering or wedding catering costs $30 to $200 per person for plated meals, a buffet, or food stations. A food truck rental costs $10 to $40 per person, depending on the type of event and whether you hire the truck on a weekend or holiday. Popular food truck menu options include tacos, pizza, BBQ, and ice cream.

What is catering?

Catering means supplying food and drink at a party, wedding, or other gathering. Some catering companies provide waitstaff, while others offer self-serve buffet stations or simply drop off prepared food to an event. Different catering companies provide different types of foods and cuisines, including:

  • Italian
  • Mexican
  • Barbeque
  • Japanese
  • Pizza
  • Sandwiches
  • Ice cream
  • Breakfast or brunch

How far in advance do I need to order catering?

Most caterers recommend ordering at least a few weeks to 6 months in advance, depending on the type of event and number of guests. However, catering a small party may not require as much advance time as a wedding, holiday party, or large corporate event.

Large chain restaurants often provide limited, drop-off catering services and require less notice than professional catering companies. Some chain restaurants and grocery stores offer catering services with only one day's notice.

What do caterers provide?

Caterers supply all the food for your event, either cooking it on-site or preparing it in their own kitchen beforehand. Many catering services include serving dishes, plates, glasses, and silverware in their price. Some caterers also offer tables, chairs, linens, or custom place settings for an added fee.

How long do caterers stay at an event?

Caterers typically serve food for 1 to 4 hours, depending on the time of year and number of guests. Setup usually takes 1 to 2 hours. Ask your caterer whether they will include any of the setup or cleanup time in their estimate.

Do you tip caterers?

Some caterers include a gratuity charge of 15% to 20% on your bill that is split between the servers. Before adding a cash tip, ask your caterer or review the contract to make sure a gratuity charge is not already included. If you decide to give cash tips directly, pay each person between $15 to $50.

How do I choose a catering company?

Search our list of caterers, then:

  • Get three or more free estimates to compare.
  • Read their reviews and menus on Fash and Google.
  • Choose a licensed, insured, and experienced company.
  • Try menu tasting before your event if possible.
  • Make sure they're a good fit for your budget and schedule.
  • Get a written estimate or contract.
  • Avoid making a large payment before your event begins.

After reading reviews and asking questions, hire the best company in your area.

What questions should I ask caterers?

When looking for local catering companies, consider asking the following questions:

  • How long have you been catering?
  • Are you licensed and insured?
  • How far in advance do I need to book?
  • What is your cancellation policy?
  • Do you allow menu changes?
  • Will you bring prepared food, or will you prepare it onsite?
  • How long will you be able to serve food?
  • How long do you need to set up?
  • Do you charge extra for travel fees?
  • Will you give me a written estimate and contract?

Reviews for Palm Desert catering services

Recent success stories from people in the Palm Desert area.
David M.
OMG food was sooooo GOOD! I would definitely come again. Fast service, great presentation and everything was on point!!! If you haven't experienced Curbservn you're missing out
Curbservn
Gerald J.
They have excellent customer service. They were on time & very professional. The pricing was very reasonable. The food was delicious. They went above and beyond to make sure this was an event to remember.
Jones Squad Rentals LLC
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