Many planners choose to hire caterers for the event to ensure that good-quality dishes are served without the responsibility of making the food themselves. But then comes the responsibility of planning the menu and working with the caterer to build the perfect spread for your guests. 

If you aren’t sure where to start with your catering menu planning, Cafesano is here to help. We’ve put together a menu planning guide to help you learn what’s on our menu and to ensure you’re satisfying all of your guests’ cravings. 

Start with the “Fan Favorites” Dip Platters

As guests begin to arrive, there should be food welcoming them to the event. And there’s nothing better than Cafesano’s Dip Sampler. With three of our famous dips: hummus, red pepper hummus, and garlicky tzatziki, you can bring your guests’ taste buds on a tour of the Mediterranean. 

The Dip Sampler is served with fresh, warm pita bread, but we also offer gluten-free options, such as fresh-sliced vegetables. Your guests will truly appreciate the thoughtfulness of your menu planning with this choice. 

And a major bonus of the dip sampler is its gorgeous layout. With sliced veggies, it’s super colorful and has a ton of texture, making for an aesthetic dish that’s worthy of your event. 

Main Event: Kabob Platters & Skewers

For those events where you’re walking around and mingling, kabob platters and skewers are perfect as the main course. At Cafesano, we offer choices such as marinated chicken, seasoned steak, and mixed vegetables for your vegetarian guests. And if you want a lighter option, choose salmon or shrimp kabobs—they’re always a hit! 

While our grilled skewers are a definite “wow” factor, you need to complete the plate. That’s why our platters come with basmati rice (regular or brown), fresh salad, and warm pita bread. These sides fully round out the dish and make sure your guests go home feeling full and satisfied. 

Comfort in a Pan: Italian Classics

For more formal events that require a sit-down meal, Cafesano’s Italian-inspired classics are the star of the show. They are warm, comforting, hearty, and downright delicious, making them perfect for cool, crisp weather. 

Just some of our top-rated catered pasta dishes include:

• Lasagna Emiliana – A signature favorite that provides the ultimate comfort food experience. Think layers of flat pasta sheets, a hearty meat sauce, and creamy, melted cheese, all in one bite. 
• Penne Arrabbiata – For those who like a little kick to their pasta, this dish was made for them. Al dente penne pasta in a spicy tomato sauce may look simple, but each bite is packed with flavor. 
• Vegetarian Options – Pasta is amazing with almost any Mediterranean ingredient, including veggies. Our Baked Ziti and Basil Pesto are meat-free favorites among guests. 

These popular pasta dishes satisfy cravings across the board and will definitely be a highlight of your event—guaranteed!

Health-Forward Salad Bowls

Some situations, such as corporate events or networking hours, call for lighter, health-conscious food choices. This is where health-forward, yet heart salad bowls are the perfect catered meal. 

Our most popular salads for catered events include:

• Signature Salad – Loaded with artichokes, kalamata olives, avocado, and mozzarella, this salad is a Cafesano menu staple perfect for vegetarians and those who want a Mediterranean flavor-packed bite. 
• Orzo & Spinach Salad – A unique, curated blend of orzo, baby spinach, and feta, tossed with garlic and lemon zest, is undeniably refreshing and hits all the nutritious markers for a health-conscious crowd. 

Now, we want to make it clear that our salads are not just “sides” to be added to your kebab skewers or paninis. They are full-on meals curated with high-quality Mediterranean ingredients. They will leave your guests full and saying, “I never knew a salad could taste that good.” 

Don’t Forget the Sweet Finish

No event is complete without a sweet treat at the end before everything winds down. And the desserts found in the Mediterranean countries are like no other! 

We offer two types of desserts on our catering menu: 

• Dessert Tray – Loaded with a mix of baklava, brownies, and cookies, perfect for guests with a sweet tooth who want to try a little bit of everything. 
• Mini Cannoli – These bite-sized Italian classics are always a crowd-pleaser, especially with the picturesque dusting of powdered sugar on top. 

Serve the desserts alongside a freshly brewed pot of coffee, and your guests will have to loosen their belts by the time they start saying their goodbyes. 

Catering Logistics: What You Need to Know

When ordering catering for your event, there are logistics to consider to plan smoothly. Each event requires a different level of catering, so knowing what to ask for and how to go about ordering it is key. (And it can save you a ton of stress!)

At Cafesano, our catering services typically require at least 24 hours’ advance notice for both orders and cancellations. However, this may change depending on the size of your event, so we encourage you to reach out as soon as possible. 

We also provide catering delivery to select cities in Northern Virginia. If your event is held in Reston, Dulles, Herndon, Sterling, McLean, Tysons Corner, or the surrounding areas, then we can bring your food right to your venue. If your event falls outside of our service areas, we can arrange for you to pick it up. 

Planning an event can be overwhelming, especially when trying to figure out how much food to order or even what to order. That’s why we offer a catering coordinator to assist you throughout the entire process. You can customize your menu, decide on your food quantity, and work within your budget so you can throw the perfect event.

Start Your Catering Order from Cafesano Today

Whether you’re currently planning an event or have one in the future, it’s never too early to reach out to catering@cafesano.com to inquire about our catering. 

Check out the full Cafesano catering menu to see all of the flavorful possibilities for your next Northern Virginia event.

The post The Best Mediterranean & Italian Catering in Northern Virginia: A Menu Planning Guide appeared first on Cafesano.

If you’ve planned events before or are new to it, whether for private parties at home or corporate events, you know just how vital setting and sticking to a catering budget is. 

Before you begin planning your next event and setting your budget, let’s dive into what you can expect to pay for catering in 2025. In this blog post, we’re breaking down the types of services, average costs, and how to save on catering. 

Average Cost of Catering in 2025

According to Bark.com, the average cost for catering in 2025 is between $11 and $200 per person. You’re probably thinking: That’s quite a large price gap, isn’t it? And you’re right. There are a ton of factors that contribute to the per-person price in catering. 

Some further average cost data shows how much this price can vary. 

• Traditional Catering – $40 to $200 per person
• Buffet Catering – $40 to $180 per person
• All-Day Catering – $160 to $300 per person
• Drop-Off Catering – $10 to $20 per person

The price you can expect to pay for catering depends largely on the type of catering service you need for your event and for how long. 

How Much Does It Cost to Cater a Private Party?

If you’re planning to host a private party, such as a graduation, bridal shower, or holiday at home, catering can save you a ton of time. Oftentimes, catering a private party is more affordable than a larger, more formal event. 

You can expect to pay the following per person for catering a private party:

• Traditional Catering – $30 to $85 per person
• Buffet Catering – $15 to $40 per person
• Private Chef – $40 to $120 per person

How Much Does It Cost to Cater a Corporate Event?

Catering a corporate event can be slightly more expensive due to the nature of the event. Some corporate events can be pretty casual, such as Friday lunch in the office or an upscale awards or recognition event in a rented venue.

You can expect to pay the following per person for catering a corporate event:

• Traditional Catering – $50 to $120 per person
• Buffet Catering – $20 to $40 per person
• Private Chef – $70 to $200 per person

What Factors Determine the Cost of Catering?

There are plenty of factors that determine how much you can expect to pay for catering at your event. 

Venue

Depending on where your event is held, your catering cost can be more or less expensive. 

If you are renting a venue that has kitchen facilities that can be used by your caterer (or to hire in-house catering), it could cut down on catering costs. However, if kitchen facilities are unavailable, then the caterers may need to prepare more dishes before arriving and bring their own cooking and prep stations. 

The location of the venue can also determine the cost. If you’re hosting the event in a major city like Washington D.C., you can expect to pay slightly more than catering in a smaller town in Northern Virginia. 

Menu

Deciding what to serve your guests is a significant contribution to the cost of your catering. 

If you choose high-end food like lobster, oysters, truffles, and steak, you can expect to pay top dollar for catering. On the other hand, more casual cuisine like BBQ or Mediterranean delicacies are a more affordable option. 

Service

There are various catering service options to choose from when planning your event. Each catering service can align with the type of event and can set a casual or formal tone. 

Some of the most common catering services include:

• Traditional Table Service – Traditional catering involves staff members bringing dishes that are prepared on-site to guests at their tables. 
• Buffet Catering Service – Pre-prepared meals are served in warming trays where guests can arrive with their plates and are served at will.
• Private Chef Service – Chefs come to your venue to prepare meals and serve dishes to guests at their tables. 
• Drop-Off Catering Service – Pre-prepared meals are dropped off at the venue in warming trays for the hostess to set up (at Cafesano, we help with setup).

Not only does the type of service dictate how the meals are served, but also the need for serving and setup and cleanup responsibilities. 

Staff Members

The type of catering service you choose will determine how many staff members must work your event as well. The more staff you need, the more you can expect to pay for catering. 

For traditional catering, you will need staff to set up, prepare, and serve the meals. However, with a drop-off catering service, there is no need for staff to work the event. 

How to Save on Catering Costs

Catering is often the most important part of your event. The food served is one of the things guests will talk about the most afterward! Luckily, there are some ways you can save on catering costs without sacrificing quality and service.

• Book Early – The earlier you can book your caterer for your event, the better deal you will get because they will have more time to prepare and an open schedule.
• Find a Local Caterer – Some caterers may charge extra fees for travel, so working with a local caterer can help cut down on costs.
• Limit Menu and Courses – It’s easy to go overboard with how many courses are served as a host, but consider limiting the food choices and cutting one of the courses (like an appetizer).
• Choose an Appropriate Service – Deciding which type of catering service is best for your event (and your budget) can help you save on catering.

Plan Your Next Catered Event with Cafesano Italian & Mediterranean Bistro in Northern Virginia

Whether you’re planning a corporate event or an at-home party with your closest friends and family, Cafesano Italian & Mediterranean Bistro is here to cater delicious authentic-inspired Mediterranean dishes. 

Your guests will love dipping freshly made pita bread in our baba ghanoush or biting into one of our signature flatbreads or options from our gluten-free menu. Perfect for holidays, conferences, and virtually any event, your guests are guaranteed to remember the food when you choose Cafesano! 

Plus, we can host your event on our gorgeous outdoor patio.

Check out our catering menu and request a quote for your next event today! 

The post How Much Should I Expect to Pay for Catering in Northern VA? appeared first on Cafesano.

But if you’ve drawn the short straw and are in charge of planning a holiday event, relax! This article is your handy guide to successful holiday catering.

From understanding your guest count to selecting a menu that caters to all preferences, you’ll find the advice you need right here. So, grab a cup of cocoa, settle in, and let’s make your holiday gathering one to remember. 

Helpful Holiday Catering Tips

Planning a memorable holiday event starts with finding the right caterer!

While your event’s focus might be on holiday festivities and socializing, food tends to steal the show and create lasting impressions on your guests’ tastebuds.

Hiring a reliable caterer guarantees seamless event planning and that guest preferences are met.

Think of it this way: an unforgettable culinary palette complements the joyous atmosphere and can even become a cherished holiday tradition. 

Hand over your holiday catering needs to Cafesano: Italian & Mediterranean Bistro and delight your guests with exquisite flavors from the Mediterranean.

1. Know What You Want—and Need

Before diving into holiday catering and event planning, nailing down event details is crucial. Begin by defining your budget. How much are you willing to spend on catering for your holiday event? This is an essential factor to consider.

Next, estimate your guest count; this ensures you order just the right amount of food.

Deciding on the event style is equally important—will it be a formal sit-down dinner or a casual gathering with hors d’oeuvres and small bites? These choices shape the ambiance and menu of your event.

Having a clear understanding of these aspects helps you choose the right catering for your holiday event and ensures a delightful experience for your guests.

2. Consider Food Preferences

When planning a holiday event, it is crucial to recognize the diverse food preferences of your guests. Some may follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, while others may have intolerances to gluten or dairy. 

Did you know that 1 in 3 Americans try to avoid gluten and 65% of the population are lactose intolerant—this is super important when planning an event with food!

Catering to specific dietary needs ensures every guest has a delightful experience. Consider gathering this information through RSVPs or direct surveys. 

If you’re hosting a family party, consider if there will be young children and picky eaters attending as well. You’ll want to have some kid-friendly food options available for the little ones too. 

Your chosen caterer should offer a menu that accommodates all these dietary requirements. By doing so, you demonstrate thoughtfulness and inclusivity, which enhances the event’s atmosphere.

Take a look at Cafesano’s gluten-free catering menu to get started planning your inclusive event menu. 

3. Interview Potential Caterers

While it can be difficult to even find a good caterer in Northern Virginia before settling on one, it’s helpful to interview a few contenders. This ensures you find a provider who is not only flexible but also aligns with your requirements and budget.

Engage in a conversation to understand their services better. Assess whether they can adapt to any special requests and if they offer the kind of service that suits the event size and type you’re organizing.

This process will also help gauge your comfort level and trust in the team. After all, you want someone reliable who can make your holiday event memorable for all the right reasons! 

4. Taste Test Your Menu

Tasting your menu before the event is a vital step in ensuring your guests enjoy each dish.

At Cafesano, you can visit the restaurant to savor their carefully crafted Mediterranean dishes. As you immerse yourself in the cozy atmosphere, you’ll experience firsthand the vibrant flavors that can grace your holiday table.

This tasting session allows you to make informed choices and refine your menu selections. Plus, it offers an early taste of the event’s culinary delights, ensuring the menu is tailored to your preferences and meets the expectations of your guests. 

5. Set a Clear Timeline for the Event

Creating a clear timeline is essential for seamless holiday event catering. Start by determining when the caterers should arrive. Consider the setup time they’ll need to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Confirm if you require post-event clean-up services from them. Clearly communicating these details prevents misunderstandings and ensures your event runs like clockwork.

Discuss these specifics early in the planning stage to avoid last-minute surprises. This attention to detail not only keeps you stress-free but also allows your guests to enjoy a flawless holiday gathering.

Remember, a well-organized event results in happy attendees and satisfied hosts!

6. Fully Understand the Contract Agreement

Understanding your caterer’s contract is crucial to ensure a seamless event.

Identify a clear point of contact for any questions or needs. A contingency plan is vital, especially considering weather changes or unexpected events, to avoid disruptions. Pay attention to the payment terms; knowing when and how much to pay prevents last-minute financial stress.

The contract should spell out all of these details and more, eliminating any surprises that could compromise your event’s success. Having everything clearly laid out ensures that both you and the caterer are on the same page, allowing you to focus on enjoying the festivities without worry.

Choose Cafesano Catering for Your Holiday Event 

Make your holiday event in Northern Virginia memorable with Cafesano’s exceptional catering services. Known for our heart-healthy Mediterranean cuisine, Cafesano provides a delightful array of dishes that cater to every food preference, ensuring there’s something delectable for everyone.

Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large corporate event, our professional team makes organizing your event smooth and stress-free. Experience the ease of working with a catering service that not only meets your dietary needs but also impresses your guests with delicious, wholesome dishes.

Choose Cafesano: Italian & Mediterranean Bistro for a holiday celebration that will be remembered by all! 
Browse our catering menu to start planning your holiday event in Northern Virginia today! 

The post Plan the Perfect Holiday Event: 6 Holiday Catering Tips from Cafesano appeared first on Cafesano.

Whether you’re planning a wedding reception, business event, family gathering, or holiday party, finding the right catering partner in Northern Virginia takes thoughtful research and clarity about your needs.

Northern Virginia’s catering market is busy and competitive. With options ranging from locally beloved restaurants to specialized event caterers, so many choices can feel overwhelming — but with the right strategy, you can narrow the field to find the perfect fit for your event vision and budget.

Step 1: Start Your Search Strategically

Use Targeted Search Terms

Begin by searching online with specific phrases that match your event type and location, such as:

• “Wedding caterers in Northern Virginia”
• “Corporate event catering Fairfax VA”
• “Best party caterers near Reston”

Targeted search queries help you find vendors who specialize in the type of event you’re planning — and improve the relevance of your results.

See What You Already Love

Your favorite local restaurants may offer catering even if it’s not their primary business. Many successful local eateries, like Cafesano Italian & Mediterranean Bistro, provide personalized catering services with menus guests already know and enjoy.

Ask for Personal Recommendations

Word-of-mouth remains one of the strongest indicators of reliability. Ask friends, family, or colleagues who have hosted catered events in Northern Virginia about their experiences and who they’d recommend.

Step 2: Narrow Down and Evaluate Options

Once you have a shortlist of potential caterers, take time to evaluate them by digging deeper into their offerings.

Review Menus for Variety and Quality

Look for caterers who offer diverse menus capable of meeting your guests’ preferences and dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. A good menu demonstrates flexibility and attention to guest comfort.

Experience Matters

Ensure the caterer has experience with events similar to yours. Weddings, corporate parties, and family celebrations all require different approaches — from plating style to timing and coordination. Ask about past events, testimonials, and photos to see their work in action.

Dive Into Reviews and References

Reviews on Google, Yelp, and social media reveal a lot about reliability, communication, and quality. Reading both positive and critical feedback gives you a balanced perspective before making a commitment.

Step 3: Look for Key Caterer Qualities

Great food is just one part of a successful event. Exceptional caterers also bring professionalism, communication, and adaptability to the table.

Professionalism Throughout

High-quality caterers communicate clearly, respond promptly, and demonstrate organization — from the initial consultation to event execution. This kind of professionalism reduces stress and increases confidence.

Tasting Experiences

A tasting session allows you to sample menu items before making final choices. It’s a crucial step in understanding how the caterer’s food will translate to your event and ensures your guests will be delighted with the final selection.

Accommodating Dietary Needs

Good caterers proactively address dietary restrictions and allergens, offering thoughtful alternatives so all guests feel welcomed and catered to properly.

Flexibility and Attention to Detail

Flexibility is vital. Great caterers adapt their offerings to your event’s unique timeline, location, and guest preferences. They listen, anticipate needs, and handle adjustments with ease.

An exceptional caterer doesn’t just talk about delectable cuisine; they let you experience it firsthand. Offering taste-testing sessions before the event helps build confidence in their culinary prowess.

The opportunity to savor their proposed menu items gives you the knowledge to make informed decisions, ensuring your guests’ taste buds are in for a delight. 

Ability to Accommodate Dietary Needs

Furthermore, a great caterer is mindful of the varying dietary needs of your guests. Their adeptness at handling allergen considerations with utmost care is a testament to their culinary aptitude. 

Caterers who skillfully craft delicious alternatives for guests with food allergies or dietary restrictions are indeed worth their weight in gold. 

Flexible and Adaptable

Flexibility is another key quality. They’re adaptable, molding their services to fit the unique demands of your event. They’re also attentive to every small detail, understanding that these nuances often make the difference in creating a memorable experience.

A great caterer molds their skills and experience around your event’s specific needs, culminating in an experience that’s as delightful as it is unforgettable.

Step 4: Making the Final Decision

With all your research done, you’re ready to choose.

Compare Value, Not Just Price

A lower price doesn’t always mean better value. Compare what each caterer includes: staffing, setup, cleanup, rentals, and service quality. Look for transparency in pricing and clear communication about what’s included to avoid surprises.

Contracts Should Be Crystal-Clear

Before signing, make sure every detail — from menu items and quantities to service style and payment terms — is documented in your contract. Clear contracts protect you and confirm expectations on both sides.

Alignment With Your Vision

Choose the caterer who understands your vision and can translate it into a cohesive culinary experience. The right caterer isn’t just a food provider — they’re a partner in crafting a memorable event.

Why Hire a Caterer in the First Place

Hiring a professional caterer does more than remove food preparation from your to-do list. It ensures:

• Meal preparation is handled safely and professionally
• Food presentation enhances your event’s atmosphere
• Timing and service flow smoothly throughout the event
• You and your guests can focus on enjoying the occasion rather than managing logistics

Caterers often handle setup, cleanup, and coordination of serving details that would otherwise fall on you or your host team.

Local Focus: Catering in Northern Virginia

Cafesano Italian & Mediterranean Bistro has been delighting local customers and events throughout Northern Virginia, including Reston, Dulles, Herndon, Sterling, Fairfax, Ashburn, McLean, Tysons Corner, Leesburg, Vienna, and Great Falls. With fresh, flavorful Italian and Mediterranean dishes, customizable menus, vegetarian and gluten-free options, and delivery assistance, Cafesano stands out as a dependable choice for many occasions.

Whether you’re planning a business lunch, wedding reception, or holiday gathering, Cafesano’s catering team can help you tailor a menu that suits your theme, budget, and guest needs.

Extra Tips for Success

• Get Multiple Quotes: Contact at least three caterers to compare services and pricing before deciding.
• Ask About Venue Requirements: Some venues have specific rules about outside caterers, so confirm these before booking.
• Consider Delivery and Setup Logistics: Make sure the caterer can handle delivery, setup, and cleanup — especially for outdoor or off-site venues.

Final Thought

Finding the right caterer in Northern Virginia doesn’t have to be stressful. Start early, do your research, seek recommendations, and choose a caterer who brings professionalism, delicious food, and a willingness to tailor their service to your unique event. With a thoughtful approach and trusted partners like Cafesano, you can focus on celebrating while the catering team handles the culinary excellence.

The post How to Find a Caterer in Northern Virginia (Expanded Guide) appeared first on Cafesano.

Wow Your Attendees With Corporate Event Catering

What do people often talk about after a big event? The food!

Corporate events are no exception. 

When you serve delicious, professionally prepared catered food, your attendees are guaranteed to have a much more memorable experience. 

Food brings people together, whether it’s over a holiday dinner, wedding, or corporate event. Catering your corporate event will ensure your guests are happy, satisfied, and full when they leave. 

Why Companies Choose Catering for Corporate Events

When there are just one or two people in charge of planning a corporate event, no matter the size, catering can be cost-efficient, save time, and present a memorable experience for the guests. 

Need some more convincing? Below are seven inarguable reasons why companies should cater their corporate events. 

1. Save Money

The first thing anyone planning a corporate event receives is a strict budget. They must work their magic to create a professional and entertaining event without spending a dollar over the budget. 

One way to cut costs is actually by hiring a catering company. Now, many inexperienced event planners scoff at this and presume cooking and plating the food themselves will save hundreds of dollars. 

This simply isn’t true! 

With catering, all of the food, utensils, plates, and napkins are consolidated into one convenient price. 

2. All-Included Solution

There is a lot to remember when putting together the food and drinks for a corporate event on your own. 

From buying enough plates and napkins to remembering the cups and creamer for coffee, it’s easy to forget something. 

Don’t forget, most people planning a corporate event do it on the side while still working full-time at the company! 

Hiring a catering company ensures that every essential dish, snack, dessert, and fork are accounted for before the event begins. You’ll have everything you need for a smooth-running event. 

3. Professional Service

When you choose catering for your next corporate event, you instantly elevate the event’s status. 

If you have clients, board members, or other important guests to impress, then serving delicious catered food will knock their socks off. 

Whether you have the caterers stay for the event to serve the food or simply present freshly made dishes by an experienced chef, your guests will notice the effort and professionalism put into the event. 

4. Delicious Food Served Warm

Choosing to cater your corporate event guarantees that your guests will enjoy delicious food that is served fresh and warm. 

When catering an event yourself, you’ll have to spend time preparing the food, packaging it, and trying to keep it warm until it is ready to be served. 

A professional and experienced catering company is prepared and equipped with everything they need to make the food fresh and keep it warm right until it hits the plate your guest’s plate.

5. Diverse Food Options

Nowadays, there are so many different lifestyle diets, such as vegetarian and vegan, and awareness of food sensitivities, such as gluten, that it can feel intimidating to choose food that everyone at your event can consume. 

Fortunately, restaurants that offer catering services can meet all of your guests’ food requirements. 

Whether you need to cater to both vegetarians and meat eaters or be careful of cross-contamination due to allergies, the professionalism of a caterer will ensure everyone has something delicious and safe to eat. 

6. Quick and Convenient 

Let’s face it; hiring a restaurant or company to cater your corporate event is as easy as picking up the phone and filling out a form online. The hardest part is choosing which delicious food to order and serve to your guests!

In a matter of minutes, you can have food for a hundred people guaranteed to arrive at your event fresh and warm for your guests. 

You don’t have to worry about running around to different grocery stores or wholesale warehouses to get the ingredients or supplies needed to feed an event. 

7. Stress-Free Event Planning

While food is one of the most important aspects of event planning, you have other things to focus on. 

Whether you’re organizing guest speakers, printing out pamphlets, sending email invites, or contacting vendors and sponsors, corporate event planning is stressful. 

Choosing to cater your corporate event can lift a weight from your shoulders, knowing that you have professionally prepared delicious food being delivered for your guests. 

Choose Cafesano to Cater Your Next Corporate Event

At your next corporate event in northern Virginia satisfy your guests with Italian and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine from Cafesano Italian & Mediterranean Bistro. 

With tasty vegetarian and gluten-free options that are healthy and made with fresh ingredients, you’re sure to leave every guest happy and full. 

Choose from panini or salads for a simple luncheon, baked pasta dishes, and kebab platters for a sit-down meal. Don’t forget to end with an assorted sweet dessert platter with baklava, cannoli, and brownies. 

Elevate your corporate event with delicious Mediterranean cuisine for all diets from Cafesano. 

Order your catering online and cross one more thing off of your corporate event planning checklist today! 

The post 7 Smart Reasons to Choose Catering for Your Corporate Event appeared first on Cafesano.

As the weather in Virginia gets crisp and the rush for the best holiday gift deals begin, we find ourselves whispering about the annual office holiday party once again.

Unfortunately, those put in charge of planning the perfect office holiday party usually feel the task is challenging and mundane. There are dates to set, invitations to send out, decorations to decide on, venues to choose from, and don’t forget the catering. Plus, who really enjoys these things anyways?

Luckily, all of this planning doesn’t have to be dull and stressful. It can be fun and exciting and the end result can make your co-workers say “Wow! I can’t wait for next year’s party!”

Let’s take a look at some of the hottest holiday catering trends 2018 has to offer so you can get motivated about planning your company’s best holiday party ever.

New Catering Trends to Try This Year

Unique Themes

There seems to be a push for all things unique when it comes to holiday party themes this year. In fact, almost all events this year have centered on the mainstream idea of having a unique theme.

Of course, traditional holiday motifs are always welcome, and the ever-favorite ugly sweater parties are never going to end.

But why not try something a little different this year?

Here are two great ideas for your corporate party that are sure to get everyone into the holiday spirit:

• Winter Wonderland – Rather than follow traditional holiday décor, opt for a more neutral, wintry theme. Make it traditional or whimsical, or even comical. Use colors such as silver, white, and even specks of gold. Add snow, woodland, and sparkle elements to everything. Glassware can be crystal, linens can be pure white, and the lighting can have hints of blue to add to the classical wintry look.

Want to spice things up even more?

Add an element of fire to your ice by incorporating dark, fiery reds to your winter wonderland. The ideas are endless and will make for a theme your guests will never forget.

• Colorful Carnival – Who said holiday parties had to be, well, wintry? If you are really looking to do something different this year try tapping into your employees’ inner child by putting on an all-out winter carnival.

What’s more, this theme can have its own style and feel; think vintage fun fair, Coney Island, old-time carnival, and more. Play it up by adding makeup artists to transform guests, require costumes for entrance, make it colorful and bright, and don’t forget the staple behind every good carnival: games!

Whether you are looking for a more traditional feel for your office party, or want to step out of the box and do something unexpected, make sure you have something planned to set the tone of your party in a positive light from the start.

Party Decor

Falling in line with your holiday party theme is the décor used to make it special. Take a look at some of this year’s coolest ideas to add to your party planning agenda:

• Modern – Minimalist decorations with singular bold accent colors amidst black and white backgrounds and strong geometric shapes.

• Rustic – Earthy, organic, and natural details such as pinecones, mistletoe and trees adorned with woodland creatures. Materials like burlap, sisal, or twigs incorporate into all of the décor.

• Accessories – Every party needs the small details to pull the entire theme together.

• Centerpieces – They are easy to personalize and make your company’s party unique. Use glass vases and add strands of lights, pine sprigs, baubles, or colorful candles inside.

• Mason jars – One of the hottest trends for some time now, Mason jars are versatile and can be used as centerpieces, tableware, decorations, or even containers.

• Plating trends – Change up the sizes and colors of your tableware to give your party décor more variety.

• Ditch traditional banquet tables and chairs – Go for comfort and style. Try rocking chairs, sofas, porch swings, or mod ball chairs to steer clear of a foldup metal banquet chair.

Catering is All About the Food

While there are many things that go into catering a successful holiday party, it is the abundance of delicious food that really makes the party a hit. There are many catering trends that emerged in 2018 that every party planner should be aware of. Here is what your guests will be expecting at their holiday party this year:

Small Bites

2018 is the year of small portions, lots of variety, and easy to eat finger foods. The traditional sit down dinner party has been losing steam for a while now as guests demand bite-sized everything.

Cafesano Catering offers a large variety of finger food platters perfect for your holiday office party. In line with the holiday catering trends of 2018, Cafesano’s catering menu will provide your guests with the kind of party fare they’re looking for. Try our large selection of warm Panini sandwiches and flavorful wraps, our easy to eat homemade Grape Leaves, or even some of our grilled skewers. Catering in Dulles never tasted so good.

Unique Cuisine

Another trend hitting holiday parties hard this year is the idea that guests want to enjoy cuisine from a culturally diverse menu. Ethnic flavors are favored among those attending parties as people call for exotic flavors and never before tried foods.

Choosing Cafesano Catering to cater your holiday party this year will surely be a hit among those looking to expand their palates. Cafesano’s menu selections are not too rich and not too spicy, but full of freshness and bold flavor profiles from Italy and the Mediterranean.

Healthy Food Choices

Healthy eating is a trend that is here to stay. As more people become aware of how their eating habits affect their overall health, people want healthy choices to be available, even when they’re attending a holiday party.  Here are three of the most popular healthy catering trends all caterers wishing to be successful should apply to their menu options:

1. Vegetarian Options

50% of all Americans eat at least one meatless meal per week. That is why savvy caterers will opt to include vegetarian alternatives to their catering menus. More people are making the shift to vegetarian diets and not simply for their main course either.

The demand for lighter, healthier, more vegetable filled meals will continue to rise into the next year, so adding a vegetarian selection to your office party menu will definitely go over well with everyone in attendance.

Cafesano prides itself on serving fresh and healthy dishes. In fact, the Mediterranean diet is considered by many to be the healthiest in the world. This emphasis on healthy eating is the cornerstone of Cafesano’s food choices, as reflected on the many healthy options on the catering menu.

Try adding Cafesano’s famous falafel to your holiday party. Both vegetarian and delicious, this Mediterranean staple has all elements of the trending holiday foods: it’s bite-sized, ethnically unique, and healthy!

2. Gluten-Free Options

Much like the vegetarian trend hitting the holiday parties in 2018, the desire for gluten-free dishes is making waves as well. Although some people engage in gluten-free eating for specific medical purposes, a large number of people do it simply to be healthy. Those same people are attending your office holiday party and would like to eat foods consistent with their normal diets. Grains like quinoa and buckwheat offer lots of nutritional value and can be incorporated into many holiday meals.

Cafesano is proud to be one of the top-rated Dulles restaurants offering a gluten-free menu.

3. Hummus

It has been suggested that hummus is one of the hottest food trends this year, even out-trending salsa. High in protein and fiber, and low in fat, this chickpea based dip suits everyone. Having many flavor varieties, hummus is without a doubt one of the most popular foods you can provide your guests at the annual office holiday party.

Homemade original and spicy red pepper hummus are two of the most popular dips offered by Cafesano in Dulles.  Adding hummus to your catering order is sure to please your holiday party guests.

Catering Your Northern Virginia Office Party

After planning your office party’s date and time, theme, decorations, and venue, make this year’s office party the very best following some of the most popular holiday catering trends of 2018. Consider using the catering services of Cafesano Catering for all of your menu needs. Delivering straight to your party in Northern Virginia, Cafesano Catering ensures only the freshest, most flavorful (and healthy!) Mediterranean fare will be served to your party guests.

With convenient online ordering, or friendly Catering Coordinators standing by to help you with your order by phone, Cafesano guarantees your holiday party will be a success.

The post Biggest Holiday Catering Trends of 2018 appeared first on Cafesano.

Fortunately here are a few simple tips for our neighbors in Northern Virginia that will have the kudos coming your way without the stress you simply don’t need during this festive but hectic time of year.

1. Pick the right date and time for your party.

When selecting an event date, make sure it doesn’t fall too close to the holidays or run into conflicts with your employees’ or friends’ religious observations. Timing is everything with any party, but particularly around the holidays when so many activities are crammed into just a few weeks.

Consider a date early in the holiday season, before folks start filling up their calendars. And be sure to send out invitations well in advance with a prominent RSVP request and a deadline.

2. Choosing the ideal location

For smaller office parties, consider:

• Would it be convenient to host the party in the office during the week, or would you like to invite the office to celebrate at your home during the weekend?
• Will it be kept to office staff only, or will you encourage employees and clients to bring their families?

For a larger corporate gala, here are a few things to consider when choosing a venue:

• Is it convenient to the office and where your employees live?
• Is there plenty of parking?
• Does the management have experience in event planning?
• Do they have a good reputation? (We can make a few suggestions if you’d like).
• Do your employees have any ideas or preferences? (Ask them).

For a party at your home, think about the following:

• Do you have room to accommodate both the people and the food in your home?
• If you want to invite a lot of people, should you just serve appetizers and finger foods and do you have places around your home where you can distribute platters of food and beverages so folks can get to them easily?
• If you want to have an actual meal, do you have a place where your guests can eat comfortably and do you want everyone to eat together and in the same room at the same time?

3. Try adding a theme this year.

Perhaps your business had an exceptional year of growth or you’ve launched a new product and want that reflected along with a holiday theme. You might also use the event to hand out special awards or make an announcement about the past year or the new year ahead. (Again invite your employees to make suggestions. Make it their event in a very real way.)

If your family has a traditional time and place to come together for the holidays, you can still add a distinctive touch to each year by incorporating a unique theme to your decorations and menu choices.

• 

  Consider adding hor d’oeuvres that your guests may not see at another holiday party this year like hummus with warm pita bread or falafel bites with tahini sauce.

• Consider featuring menu items made with fresh ingredients from local farmers. Serving a variety of wines and craft beers from local Virginia wineries and breweries is certain to be a hit! (We’re big on fresh and local.)
• Instead of serving predictable sugar cookies, opt for a different choice of desserts that include trays of mini Italian cannoli and traditional baklava.
• Decorate with wreaths and garland from your local Christmas tree farm, trimmed with holly and burlap ribbon – you can’t beat the “traditional” look and your house will smell wonderful too!

4. Order the right amount of food.

One of the biggest challenges to hosting a party is knowing how much food and drink your guests will require. There are a number of useful charts that assist in estimating how much food is needed, but try to think back on previous events.

Make sure your invitations have an RSVP so you know how many guests you will be hosting. And going forward, keep track each year of how much food and beverage you ordered, how many people came, and how much food and beverage was left over.

While ordering too much could mean having leftovers for a few days, ordering too little can cut your party short. At Cafesano, we provide catering to groups of all sizes in Northern Virginia and we’re happy to assist you with ordering just the right amount of food so you can minimize the chances of over- or under-ordering and ensure your guests go home happy!

5. Order the right types of food.

Many people have food allergies and dietary restrictions and you’ll be a hero if you provide menu items that take this into consideration. If you’re hosting an intimate party with friends and family, you probably know everyone’s preferences. However, for larger parties, we recommend you select menu items that cater to a variety of diets.

Keep vegetarian, vegan, kosher, and gluten-free diets in mind as you plan your menu. Cafesano Catering in Northern Virginia has a wide selection of dishes that can satisfy almost any need. From our popular Salad Bowls and Panini & Wrap Platters that include vegan and vegetarian selections, to our gluten-free catering selections, our Catering Coordinator will work with you to create a customized menu that will insure your event is a hit for all your guests!

Catering Your Northern Virginia Party

This year, simplify your holidays and consider using the services of a local caterer in Northern Virginia. Cafesano Catering in Reston, VA will make sure planning for your event is simple and hassle-free.

Online ordering, and delivery services, as well as a large selection of fresh, flavorful and healthy menu items, make Cafesano Catering the perfect choice for your holiday party. Let us take care of the food so you can concentrate on making sure your guests are having fun. Who knows – maybe you’ll actually enjoy the party yourself!

Cafesano Catering, providing catering services in Northern Virginia for over 6 years, makes holiday party planning simple with catering services for both intimate house parties and large corporate events.

Choose from a flavorful and unique assortment of Italian and Mediterranean menu items. Contact Cafesano today and we’ll help you start planning your upcoming holiday event in Northern Virginia.

What dish are you most looking forward to at your next holiday gathering?

The post Tips for Planning a Holiday Party appeared first on Cafesano.

Next time you have a business meeting, consider the high quality corporate catering options offered in Northern Virginia over the typical finger food, boring sandwiches, and supermarket party platters your peers and clients are accustomed to.

Who Uses Corporate Catering?

Corporate catering in Northern Virginia is often thought of as a service reserved for only high end business executives and clients. However, there are plenty of reasonably priced catering services and options that provide professionals with the opportunity to compliment their business meeting with good food.   Some examples of business settings where corporate catering can provide value-added benefits include:

Sales meetings

No matter the industry, being a sales rep in today’s crowded business environment is competitive and challenging. Many sales reps try to one-up each other by giving customers cheap promotional items and giveaways. Why not set the bar high and leave a lasting impression with a catered lunch meeting the next time you stop by? Provide menu items that aren’t offered in typical business luncheons, such as a Mediterranean dip platter with Panini sandwiches and lavash chips. Serving a meal that is as unique as your product is a sure-way to leave a lasting impression.

Internal Business Meetings

It’s tough to get employees excited about yet another meeting. One way to get their attention is to offer a fresh & flavorful lunch at your next monthly meeting. The employees will enjoy a nicely presented and complimentary lunch and you’ll have the opportunity to demonstrate that you’re sensitive to their time constraints by feeding them while you’re meeting with them!

If you work with a reputable and affordable caterer, you’ll be able to offer a variety of dishes that will satisfy everyone’s tastes and even accommodate dietary restrictions.

Celebrations

Recognizing milestones and success stories is always a good excuse for a celebration. Whether it’s a coworker’s retirement, the meeting of a new sales goal, or a company anniversary, corporate catering can take a celebration to the next level by making sure the food is as special as the event. From a variety of fresh salad bowls with platters of colorful wraps to a selection of fresh pasta dishes followed by cannoli for dessert, a corporate caterer will make sure the food compliments and adds excitement to the special occasion.

Tips for Your Next Catered Event

To add to the success of your next catered event, keep the following easy tips in mind:

• Accurate Headcount. Try to come up with an accurate headcount. There’s nothing worse than running out of food or spending money on food you don’t need.

• Cover Your Bases. Once you’ve selected your food and beverage, don’t forget plates, bowls, napkins, utensils, etc.    Most corporate caterers will provide these for you.  Also be sure your caterer can accommodate delivering the food where you need it and when you need it.

• Dietary Restrictions. Find out if any of your guests have special food requests and/or dietary restrictions before finalizing your catering order. Recognizing that some folks have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies will be greatly appreciated. Many caterers now offer gluten-free menu items, vegetarian-friendly foods, and even low-salt dishes.

• Location.   Be sure you have a meeting area big enough to accommodate food set-up.  Or, better yet, take a break from your meeting and have a break-out room for your lunch. Either way, be sure you have enough tables setup to hold your food and beverage and think ahead about how folks will serve themselves – serving from both sides of a table is a great way to get folks served quickly.

The Best in Northern Virginia Catering

For corporate catering in Northern Virginia, consider the fresh and flavorful Mediterranean & Italian catering menu offered by Cafesano. We offer unrivalled customer service, delicious food, affordable pricing and convenient online ordering. For more information, please contact us today!

The post Take Your Next Business Meeting to a New Level with Corporate Catering appeared first on Cafesano.

Food that doesn’t taste good, that’s limited as to choices and/or that’s presented sloppily makes a very poor impression on your guests. When you offer fresh, flavorful, attractively-served meals, on the other hand, it’s easier for them to see your company as a quality organization that knows how to take care of its clients.

To ensure that you’ll be giving your customers a memorable meal—memorable in a good way—here are some questions to ask when you’re interviewing companies that provide catering in Reston,  Herndon, and surrounding areas of Virginia, for your next business event.

1. Is the menu interesting and does it include items that satisfy special dietary requirements?

Business people get tired of the same catered lunch choices – deli platters with pasta salad, chips, pickles and cookies seem to be the quick and easy norm.  Find a caterer that’s offering something a little unique, perhaps with an ethnic flair.  Mediterranean and Italian catering menus are popular today, especially since they tend to focus on healthy, yet flavorful, menu items.

Additionally, more people than ever seem to be following special diets—vegan and vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, low-salt, etc.  When you’re planning a business meal for important clients, you want to be sure that you make every possible effort to accommodate their various needs by providing a variety of foods. The catering company you choose should be able to suggest main dishes and/or accompaniments to accommodate your guests’ dietary requirements as much as possible.

2. Can you arrange for a tasting?

You’re probably not going to take this step if you’re talking about occasional lunch meetings in your office, but if you’re sponsoring a big event with a potential of generating lots of business you’d better have at least a few people from your office sample potential menu items and give their opinions.

3. Can they provide references from other business customers?

You’ll want to know if the catering company you’re considering will deliver meals on time, if the food is good, if the presentation is attractive. There’s no one who can provide that information better than current clients of the company that’s providing your catering around Herndon and Reston.  Those clients will be speaking from experience. So be sure to ask potential caterers for long-time references—companies that have used them for a year or more—and follow up with those references.

4. Do they specialize in events of a certain size and can they offer you special services that you might need?

While the caterer that you currently use may be exceptional at providing outstanding lunches for business meetings of 20 people in your office, they may not be up to the task of handling refreshments for 200 people at a product launch offsite.

Ask a caterer how much experience they’ve had in handling events of the size you’re anticipating (and get references from clients who have used them for events of that size as well).  Do they have a Catering Coordinator who can help you finalize a menu?  Can they provide sufficient plates, cutlery and any necessary chafing dish set-ups?   Do they deliver?  Don’t assume anything; go over every detail of your event so there are no last-minute, unpleasant surprises.

5. Is placing an order easy and convenient? 

Are you able to find menus and pricing online?  If necessary, can they provide you with a written proposal up-front for your catered event that includes all pricing and reflects the all-inclusive final price you’ll pay?

You don’t want to get to the stage where you’ve selected a caterer and then they present you with a detailed contract that’s full of provisions that aren’t acceptable to you. If you’re looking for a caterer who can handle events for you on a regular basis, can you open an account and pay online?  Will they keep a history of past orders for your review?

6. Is your caterer someone you’d use again – and again – and again?

We’ve all worked with vendors that go the extra mile in making sure we get the product/service we need, when we need it. Does your caterer help you out when you’re in a pinch? Can they accommodate your customized requirements? Do they make it obvious that they’ll do what it takes to get your business and keep your business? Are they interested in establishing a long-term business relationship?

Which qualities are most important to you when choosing a caterer in Virginia?

The post How to Choose the Right Caterer for Your Next Business Meeting appeared first on Cafesano.

Although you can certainly set out snacks yourself, a nicely catered food presentation will impress your guests and help reinforce a positive image of you, your company and your product or service.

Make use of these tips to create a catering menu that will be a hit with your guests.

Offer novelty and variety

Think about how often business people are in luncheon meetings these days.  Imagine how many chicken wraps, tuna sandwiches and potato salads they consume in a year. If you are looking to impress, think outside the box. Select a specific cuisine, such as Mediterranean; or if your guests are from out of town, get them to try foods with local flavor.

At Cafesano, we’ve been providing catering in Reston, Great Falls, McLean and other areas in Northern Virginia for over 5 years and have received only positive feedback from our patrons. Here are some of the catering menu items that are popular with our catering clients:

–   Dip Platters that include Hummus, Tzatziki and Baba Ghanoush are a healthy alternative to cheese and crackers and are perfect as an accompaniment to a lunch menu or for an afternoon snack break.

–   Panini Platters. Choose the classics like Roasted Turkey & Cheddar and Grilled Chicken Parmesan, or surprise your guests with Grilled Portobello, refreshing Caprese or zesty Avocado & Cheddar Panini.

–   Pasta dishes are always a hit. Our Penne with Basil Pesto and Lasagna Emiliana go nicely with either a Greek or Caesar Salad Bowl.

Be thoughtful

Each one of your attendees has different food preferences, and it’s almost impossible to make everyone happy. However, your efforts and thoughtfulness will always be appreciated.

• Consider including kosher  and vegetarian options
• Offer healthy, low-calorie food for the health-conscious attendees
• If it’s not obvious, label meals and list common allergens (like peanuts)
• Avoid serving food that is too spicy, too salty or too sweet
• Think about desserts for lactose intolerant people (consider our signature baklava)

Buffet style works great for most small events

A buffet is very easy to organize and allows your guests to choose their own food as well as food portion. Keep in mind that you can have guests go down both sides of a buffet table – this will speed up the process and get everyone to their seat quicker. At the end, you can visually assess which menu items were popular with your guests – that’s great feedback to have for your next event.

Presentation is important

Your food may taste delicious, but it should look as good as it tastes! Messy food arrangements or sandwiches that are falling apart don’t say “professional” and may discourage your guests from trying the food. This is why it’s important to hire the right caterer. At Cafesano, we understand the importance of food presentation and work hard to ensure that all our catered menu items are attractively presented and create a mouthwatering first impression.

Make sure the food is fresh

Quality is important, so make sure your catering menu selections are freshly prepared by your Northern Virginia catering service – preferably within a couple of hours of your event.  Food that has been prepared too far in advance is either going to dry out, lose its crispness and freshness or potentially begin to spoil. Rather than reheating food, consider warming trays & Sterno set-ups, so that food can be kept warm until you’re ready to serve it.

When in doubt – consult!

If you are not sure how to plan for your catered event, don’t just wing it – consult with a catering company. At Cafesano, our Catering Coordinators will help you make menu selections and determine the appropriate quantity of food, working with you to ensure your event is a success! Just give us a call at 703.391.2100. If you decide to use our automated online ordering system, a record will be kept of all your catering orders for easy reference in the future.

What types of foods are you excited to find at a business meeting?

The post 6 Tips to Nail Catering for Your Business Event in Northern Virginia appeared first on Cafesano.