When should I book my event?

We highly recommend that you reach out as soon as you have finalized a wedding date (and in some cases, earlier). Being ahead of schedule is important when planning a successful event. Whether that’s 18 months or 2 days, we will stop at nothing to make your vision come to life.

Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

We are committed to providing an enjoyable event experience! Our event planners, chefs, and event staff are very familiar with the 8 main allergens and we would love to make menu modifications for your guests. And don’t worry, you are not alone – nearly all of our events have guests with dietary restrictions.

Do you cater multiple events on the same day?

Yes. Our ability to cater multiple events depends on the size and location of each event. We truly feel that our clients are like family, and as such, won’t book more events than we feel comfortable executing.

What is a facility fee?

Some venues require that caterers charge a percentage of food and beverage sales back to clients. Some caterers have these fees in menu pricing. Because each venue is different, we itemize the facility fee on invoices, and pay the full amount to venues. All facility fees are listed on our policies page.

What do service staff wear?

All staff wear black slacks, socks, and shoes. Service staff wear black button-down shirts and gray logoed bistro aprons, while catering chefs wear embroidered chef coats and hats.

Do you offer tastings, and is there a fee?

Tastings are our favorite part (other than the wedding itself)! After an initial conversation with an event planner, a tasting for up to 4 guests can be scheduled. We offer up to four entrees served with sides, and where applicable, 4 appetizers. For events that are not yet booked, we bill for the tasting, and credit the cost for the couple towards the final invoice.

How far do you travel?

Our catering radius can change based on our event schedule. We frequently travel up to 60 minutes outside of Madison, but have catered events up to two hours from our kitchen. Events over 30 minutes from our kitchen may incur travel costs. Please inquire with one of our event planners to see if we are available to travel on your date.

Do you have a cake cutting fee?

No. Our staff are on site to help make your event run smoothly! If you have other questions, please ask your event planner.

Can I bring my own appetizers and dessert?

We require that all food (except dessert) be prepared in our commercially licensed kitchen, as the health department holds us responsible for everyone’s health when we have service staff on site. In addition, we care deeply about presenting only the most delicious, fresh food available. If you have specific questions, please inquire with your event planner.

What happens with leftover food?

Leftover food is yours! You have paid for it, and we will happily package any leftovers safe for consumption in aluminum containers for you to keep and chill.

When do you need my final guest count?

For weddings and other large social events, final counts are due two weeks before your event. Your guest count can increase but not decrease after this day. One month before the event, your event planner will send an email with specific information and due dates.

For smaller deliveries and corporate events, final counts are due three days before your event. Your guest count can increase but not decrease after this day.

Is the menu flexible? Can I customize it?

Of course! Each event is unique, and we want your menu to reflect you. Your event planner will be happy to walk through customization options with you and see your chosen menu come to life.

Can I change my order after paying a deposit?

Yes. Paying a deposit reserves the date in our calendar while still allowing you the flexibility to make adjustments through the date that the final count is due.

Where do you cook your food?

We cook all food at our commercial kitchen, located on the west side of Madison. For some events, we rent out kitchen equipment and cook on site. If you would like to explore this option, please inquire with an event planner.

Another caterer charges less than you do. Why should I hire Blue Plate Catering?

Blue Plate Catering has built a reputation through offering a combination of the best food and service for every event, large and small, since 1992. Our unwillingness to cut corners does require some overhead (and when it comes to staff and what you eat, we wouldn’t have it any other way!). This commitment has led to some pretty amazing recognition: “Best of Madison” since 2005 and Wisconsin Bride Magazine’s Best Caterer in Wisconsin in 2017 and 2020-2022 (and finalist since 2014). Please inquire with your event planner if you have additional questions.

Are you licensed and insured?

We are fully insured and are licensed by both the state of Wisconsin and Public Health Madison Dane County. If your venue needs a copy of our permits, just let us know.

Do you provide bar service?

We are able to provide many different levels of bar service, depending on the venue. Please inquire with your event planner to find out what works best for you, and view our bar menu here.