FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ABOUT OUR SERVICE
Do you only do small weddings and private dining?
At The Wilderness Chef, we specialise in large-scale events and weddings, as well as corporate events and celebrations of all sizes.
What type of events do you cater for?
We cater for a wide range of events, including weddings, large scale events, corporate events, private dining experiences, workshops, retreats & more.
How many people can you cater for?
We can cater for events ranging from small gatherings to large events with hundreds of guests. We specialise in large weddings and celebrations!
Do you arrive before the event/wedding to set the tables?
When we supply tableware, including plates, cutlery and recyclable napkins, your package includes table setting (typically completed during cocktail hour), clearing of tables, washing and polishing, and transport of all items.
If you are providing your own tableware, our service includes clearing, scraping and stacking items only. Table setting and washing or polishing of externally supplied items are not included.
How many waitstaff do you provide?
The number of waitstaff depends on the style of service, whether canapés, banquet, or plated dining. All of our team are fully cross-trained, and each catering package includes the appropriate number of staff to ensure your event runs smoothly.
How much do wait staff cost per hour or are they included?
Wait staff are included in our quoted prices.
Can you cater for outdoor events?
Yes, we cater for outdoor events and can provide all necessary equipment. When making your enquiry, please let us know the location so we can discuss requirements and ensure everything is prepared. The only exception is a catering tent, which is required for all Wilderness Kitchen setups.
How early do you arrive on the day of the event?
This changes for each event depending on the type of service we are providing that day. However, we typically arrive 1 hour before food service begins to set up and prepare for service.
Can you accommodate last-minute changes or additions to the event menu?
We require your menu, guest numbers, and dietary requirements 8 weeks prior to your event. All details should be finalised and approved 3 weeks before the event. Changes within this 3-week period can be discussed with us, and we’ll do our best to accommodate them. At this stage, supplies may already be ordered and staff scheduled, so adjustments are subject to availability.
Apart from event catering, what else do you offer?
We offer ready to heat packaged meals which are available for pick up from our commercial kitchen in Wallsend and can go directly into the oven for heating when required.
Yes, we also offer professional bar service alongside our catering packages. This can be added to your event package to provide a seamless food and beverage experience, delivered by our experienced team.
Can you provide references or testimonials?
Yes, we have an amazing 5 star review average on google. You can read what our past clients have to say about us by clicking this link: https://g.page/thewildernesschef/review?rc
Do you have a cancellation policy?
All deposits are non-refundable & cannot be held as a credit. Our cancellation policy is outlined in our contract.
ABOUT OUR FOOD
Can you accommodate special dietary requirements?
Yes, we can cater for a wide range of dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, coeliac, and more. Approximately 8 weeks before your event, we send a confirmation questionnaire to gather key details such as final guest numbers, dietary requirements and allergies, menu preferences, and your event timeline. Our chefs then use this information to thoughtfully prepare substitutions, ensuring every guest is considered and cared for.
Can you help me create a custom menu for my event?
Absolutely! Get in touch with us and share your vision for the perfect dining experience. We’ll work with you to design a custom menu that brings your ideas to life, ensuring every dish reflects your style, taste, and the unique atmosphere of your event.
Do you offer full vegetarian or vegan packages on your menu?
Yes, we can create a plant based or gluten free menu for your event. Simply let us know in advance and we will make this happen.
What do you do with leftover food?
If you provide food-safe containers before the main course is served, our team will carefully package any suitable leftovers at the end of service and leave them on-site for you to enjoy later.
Do you have any sample menus or can you provide menu suggestions?
Yes, we have a seasonal sample menu which you can select your selections from for your dining experience. Or alternatively, you can opt for the chef's selection menu where our professional chefs put together an amazing menu featuring local & in season produce.
ABOUT OuR INCLUSIONS
Do you need cooking facilities on-site or do you bring everything you need?
If there is no suitable kitchen on-site, we can provide all necessary commercial catering equipment. The only exception is a catering tent, which is required for our Wilderness Kitchen setups. We can assist with sourcing a tent or arrange it as part of your package if you prefer.
Do you supply plates and cutlery?
Yes, tableware can be added to your catering package if you wish. This includes cutlery and crockery, with table setting included as part of the service.
Can you provide linens and tableware?
Yes, we can provide a range of linens napkins to suit your event style and needs although we dont supply tablecloths or table styling.
Do you provide vendor meals?
Yes, vendor meals can be added to your package at a reduced rate for your event suppliers.
Do you provide cake cutting services?
Yes, we can provide cake cutting services as part of our catering packages. We have two different options. One is a self-serve cake station with condiments and the other is individually plated for all guests.
Do you supply bar staff?
Yes, we do supply bar staff. We can also provide both food & beverage service packages. This can also include glassware if required. Simply enquire with us to take care of this.
Do you need a cool room to be provided or do you bring one with you?
No, we do not usually require a coolroom.
ABOUT OUR PRICING
What is your pricing structure?
Our pricing is based on the type of event, number of guests, menu selection, and additional services requested. We will provide a detailed quote based on your specific needs.
Is gst included in the quoted price?
Yes, all quoted packages are inclusive of gst.
Do I need to pay a deposit?
Yes, we charge a 30% non-refundable booking fee in order to secure your booking and date. We do not need to know final guest numbers until 14 days prior to your event, which is when the final payment is due. So your invoice and booking details can be amended up until then.
Are there any additional fees that I should be aware of?
No, there are no hidden fees when booking with us. We pride ourselves on being upfront about all costs from the start and we accurately quote based on your event details. Our quotes are detailed and what is included is clearly listed. The only thing we dont included in our packages is a catering tent which is required for wilderness kitchen setups.
ABOUT BOOKING WITH US
How much notice do you need for a booking?
We recommend booking as far in advance as possible to ensure availability, but we can often accommodate last-minute bookings depending on our schedule.
Can you provide a tasting before I book your catering services?
Our tasting events are designed a little differently to other catering companies. We typically host pop-up style, ticketed events that are initially open to clients and, depending on the venue, may also be open to the public. As these are shared events with multiple groups, personalised menus aren’t usually available, though all dietary requirements are fully accommodated. Alternatively, some couples choose to book a private dining experience with us, which can serve as a personalised tasting for their wedding or event.
ABOUT OUR BUSINESS
How many years have you been in business and how many events have you catered for?
The Wilderness Chef has been in operation for 10 years now and we have catered for thousands of events.
Do you have public liability insurance?
Yes, we do. We are fully insured and can provide a copy of this to a venue/vendor upon receipt of their insurance documents.
Can you provide photos of past events you have catered?
Yes we sure can! We have thousands of amazing photos of our beautiful food. You can view some of our photos on our website, facebook, instagram & google profile. https://www.instagram.com/the.wilderness.chef/?hl=en
