A Matter of Taste - Proper Tastings

We are excited to share with our brides
"A Matter of Taste!"

Chef Larry, from Simply Gourmet Catering
has contributed to our blog to shine some
light on your menu tasting!

Chef Larry Barrett - Simply Gourmet Catering

A tasting should be one of the highlights of

planning your wedding, one of the first steps in

making your dream a reality. 

Start by contacting three caterers by phone or email.

Do your homework, ask friends for referrals and read

reviews on line. Let the caterers know what foods you enjoy.

Are you planning a buffet or table service dinner?

Would you like passed appetizers?

Inform the caterers of your food, beverage and

service budget. Next a personalized menu should be

created for you. Make sure all the details you discussed

are on your menu. You can make tasting requests when

setting up your appointment, keep it simple: 

“we love scallops and potato gratin can we try those?” 

A good caterer picks up on what you’d like to sample

and focuses on items you discussed earlier.

Every caterer has their own formula for tastings. Some 

charge a fee that goes toward the final bill when you book 

with them. Most do not charge a fee, they are excited to

let you sample their food~you wouldn’t buy a car without

taking it for a test drive. Some caterers have group

tastings, several couples sampling cuisine at the same time.

Chef Larry likes tastings that focus on one couple

enjoying a fantastic dining experience. This personal

attention allows you to ask important questions

in a relaxed atmosphere.

The tasting is not only about the food, it gives you

an opportunity to observe how a company operates. 

Every caterer has it’s strong and weak points, this is your

chance to size them up. Notice how your food is

presented, plates should be beautifully garnished. 

Was the food delicious? If the answer is no, move on. 

No matter how great the support staff is, your

palate is saying no. If a company can’t pull off a tasting

for a few guests, the food will not shine on your wedding day.

Discuss your menu with the chef. If there is an item

or two that needs tweaking, see if your wishes can be

accommodated. Don’t over think, just make

common sense decisions.       

The most important aspect of a tasting is the clarity

it provides. Now you know the food, the presentation

and you’re acquainted with the sales staff and chef. 

You will be speaking with your caterer many times

over the next year. Make sure they are someone you

trust and can laugh with. Caterers are like culinary fairy

godmothers, you make a wish and they make it come true. 

Planning your special day requires a lot of work, but

remember to enjoy yourself, this is a once in 

a lifetime experience. 

Tasting Etiquette

Let the caterer know your food likes and dislikes before

the tasting.  “I hate capers and basil”, the more specific,

the better. A good company takes careful notes and

follows through on tasting requests.

Make sure you have a personalized menu from the

caterer before your tasting that is within your budget.

Make sure everyone necessary is in attendance~

bride, groom and anyone responsible for 

making important decisions.

Take photos of the food to view later, this helps keep

everything fresh in your mind. 

Best not to be overly critical, if the food is

not for you move on.

Happy Planning!

xxoo,

Confetti Girls + Chef Larry

Simply Gourmet Caterers