Catering: A Guide to Managing a Successful Business Operation
Catering is one of the fastest-growing segments of the food service industry. To succeed in this highly competitive arena, you need not only culinary expertise, but also a wide range of business skills. That's why Bruce Mattel, a successful caterer with more than 20 years of food service experience, teamed up with The Culinary Institute of America to create this indispensable guide. It's brimming with practical information and real-world know-how—everything you need to set up and run a profitable catering business.Beginning with an overview of the catering profession, the book explains the various kinds of career opportunities available as well as the skills you need to succeed. It walks you through every aspect of operating a catering business, including:Launching a catering enterprisePricing for profitSetting up a catering kitchenHiring and managing staffMarketing the businessPlanning successful eventsEstablishing impressive servicePreparing distinctive foodManaging the dining roomFor each topic covered, Catering provides detailed information and guidance on best practices, complete with the hands-on examples and insider tips you need to troubleshoot difficulties and creatively meet challenges in your own catering business.This invaluable reference is full of tools and resources to help your operation succeed. To assist you with the practical aspects of your operation, you'll find a detailed sample business plan, helpful recommendations on staffing and equipment, complete examples of how to price events, and much more. And to make sure your service and food receive accolades, you'll find in-depth advice on service styles, tips on active buffet stations, and sample menus for a wide range of events. Featuring more than 70 instructive photographs and illustrations throughout, Catering is your road map to a thriving catering business, whether you're new to the field or a veteran caterer who wants to improve performance.