Cockpit Catering Company

1. Base Pricing & Custom Quotes Pricing varies depending on the menu, guest count, service style, and event complexity. We provide custom quotes for each event to ensure accurate pricing based on specific needs. A per-person pricing model is typically used for most catered meals. 2. Minimums & Fees Order Minimums: We have a minimum order requirement, which varies based on the type of event and service (e.g., drop-off catering vs. full-service events). Delivery Fee: A delivery fee applies to drop-off and setup services, calculated based on distance from our kitchen. Service Fee: Full-service catering may include a service fee to cover staffing, setup, and cleanup. 3. Deposits & Payments A deposit is required to secure the date, typically 25-50% of the total cost, depending on the event. Full payment is due before the event unless prior arrangements have been made. 4. Discounts & Special Offers We offer volume discounts for large orders. Recurring clients (such as corporate accounts) may receive preferred pricing or contract-based discounts. Nonprofits and fundraisers may be eligible for special pricing on a case-by-case basis. 5. Cancellations & Refunds Deposits are non-refundable if cancellations occur within a certain time frame. Partial refunds may be issued based on the cancellation timeline and incurred costs.

Initial Consultation – We prefer to start with a quick phone call to understand the client’s vision, needs, budget, and event details. This helps us determine the best approach for their catering experience. Customized Proposal & Tastings – If needed, we schedule consultations that may include small tastings to help finalize the menu. We also provide a customized quote based on guest count, menu selections, and service style. Booking & Deposit – Once the client is ready to move forward, we secure the date by collecting a deposit. This ensures availability and allows us to begin preparations. Ongoing Communication – We remain in close contact leading up to the event, ensuring that any changes, additions, or special requests are addressed promptly. Event Execution – On the day of the event, our team arrives on time, handles setup, serves guests (if applicable), and ensures a seamless experience. Post-Event Follow-Up – After the event, we check in for feedback and discuss any future catering needs.

I have been working in the restaurant industry since 1999, starting from the ground up and gaining experience in every position along the way. Over the years, I’ve worked in multiple restaurant concepts, eventually serving as Director of Operations at Back Yard Burgers, where I discovered my passion for catering. That passion led me to establish and operate IDK? CAFE, my first venture into restaurant ownership. Through hard work and dedication, I have trained myself in a variety of cooking techniques while also building a team of skilled professionals who share my commitment to excellence. I believe in surrounding myself with talented individuals who can execute at a high level, ensuring every event and meal is exceptional. I am a ServSafe Certified Manager and have completed multiple courses in food safety and nutrition, reinforcing my commitment to quality and compliance in every aspect of my business. Whether it’s a casual gathering or an upscale dining experience, I take pride in crafting memorable meals that bring people together.

My passion for food started when I was a kid, dreaming of owning my own little restaurant. My best friend and I had it all planned out—complete with red gingham tablecloths and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Cooking has always been a part of my life, thanks to my grandmothers and my mom, who taught me the skills that would later shape my career. Growing up, I took on the responsibility of cooking for my siblings, making sure they had meals when it was my turn to cook. That experience, combined with my years working in restaurants, fueled my drive to turn my love of food into something bigger. I’ve also been fortunate to travel extensively, which has deepened my appreciation for different cultures and cuisines. Learning about people through their food has inspired me to bring that same passion for flavor and tradition to my clients and guests. Whether it’s crafting a high-end dining experience or creating comforting, familiar flavors, my goal is always to share my love of great food with others.

We have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients, providing exceptional food experiences tailored to their needs. Children & Adults (CACFP Program): Through our CACFP program contracts, we provide thousands of meals daily, ensuring balanced and nutritious options for both children and adults. Private Jet Charters: We cater to private aviation clients, curating high-quality, customized meals to enhance their in-flight experience. Corporate & Large-Scale Events: During our time at IDK? CAFE, we worked extensively with large corporate events. While it's not our primary focus now, we have the capability to handle these types of events. Pharmaceutical Reps & Medical Offices: We regularly provide meals for pharmaceutical reps and doctor’s offices, ensuring fresh, timely deliveries for their staff and clients. Treatment Facilities & Daily Meal Services: We have worked with treatment facilities and other daily meal accounts, providing multiple meals a day to meet their specific dietary needs. Private Chef & High-End Dining Experiences: We create luxury private dining experiences, offering multi-course meals, wine pairings, and interactive chef experiences for intimate dinners, retreats, and exclusive events. Wedding Catering: We provide high-end wedding catering, specializing in customized menus, elegant presentations, and seamless service to create an unforgettable culinary experience for couples and their guests. In short, if it involves food, we can probably help—or connect you with the right person who can. We pride ourselves on flexibility, quality, and delivering the best experience for our clients.

One recent project that stands out is our catering work for the film "The Underneath: In Fortune's Shadow." This project involved 30 days of filming, preceded by 1.5 weeks of intensive preparation. We provided daily craft services and catered breakfast and lunch, ensuring that the cast and crew were well-fed and energized throughout the production. Key Highlights: Dynamic Scheduling: We navigated frequent location shifts, sometimes managing multiple locations in a single day. This required precise coordination and flexibility to ensure timely service. Adaptability in Challenging Conditions: The production took place in cold outdoor weather, pushing us to develop innovative solutions to maintain food quality and temperature while serving in less-than-ideal conditions. Personalized Service: We worked with a variety of unique personalities and addressed numerous dietary restrictions, tailoring our menus to meet diverse nutritional needs without compromising on taste. Comprehensive Planning: The initial 1.5-week prep time was critical, allowing us to plan meticulously for every aspect of the film's catering demands, from sourcing ingredients to establishing contingency plans for last-minute changes. This project not only showcased our culinary skills and logistical expertise but also underscored our commitment to adapting quickly and delivering exceptional service under pressure. It remains one of our most rewarding experiences, demonstrating our ability to meet the diverse needs of a high-profile, fast-paced film production.

Hiring the right caterer can make or break your event. Here are some key things to consider: Ask for Referrals & Reviews – Word of mouth is powerful. Talk to past clients, read online reviews, and ask for references to get a sense of a caterer’s reliability, food quality, and service. Schedule a Tasting (And Be Willing to Pay for It) – A tasting allows you to experience the caterer’s food firsthand and ensure it aligns with your expectations. Many professional caterers charge for tastings because they use high-quality ingredients and dedicate time to crafting your potential menu. Understand the Caterer’s Strengths – Not all caterers specialize in the same type of events. Some excel in large-scale corporate catering, while others focus on intimate private dining experiences or weddings. Make sure your caterer has experience with the type of service and event you’re planning. Be Clear About Your Budget & Expectations – Get detailed pricing and understand what’s included. Some caterers provide full-service options (setup, service staff, clean-up), while others are drop-off only. Know what you're getting to avoid last-minute surprises. Check Licensing & Insurance – A reputable caterer should have the proper licenses, health permits, and liability insurance to legally and safely operate. This is especially important for venues that require proof of coverage. Ask About Flexibility – Events don’t always go as planned. Can the caterer adjust for guest count changes? Do they have contingency plans for staffing or supply chain issues? Knowing how adaptable they are can save you stress later. By following these steps, you’ll find a caterer who not only delivers great food but also a seamless experience from start to finish.

Before reaching out to a caterer, it’s helpful to consider a few key factors to ensure a smooth planning process and the best possible outcome for your event: What type of food do you want? Be as specific as possible about your preferences, dietary needs, and any must-have dishes. However, keep an open mind—an experienced caterer can offer recommendations based on what works best for your event style, timeline, and budget. For example, chicken tenders might be a favorite, but they don’t always hold up well over time, especially for larger events. A caterer can suggest alternatives that offer the same flavor and appeal while maintaining quality. What is your budget? Having a realistic budget in mind is crucial. Most caterers are happy to work within your price range, but it’s important to set expectations accordingly—for example, a plated multi-course dinner will cost more than a buffet-style meal. Transparency about your budget helps caterers design a menu that balances quality and affordability. What is the style and setting of your event? Consider whether you want formal plated service, a buffet, family-style dining, or cocktail-style appetizers. Also, think about your venue, available kitchen space, and any restrictions that may impact food service. Are there any dietary restrictions or special accommodations? If you have guests with allergies, vegetarian/vegan preferences, or other dietary needs, it's important to communicate that upfront so the menu can be adjusted accordingly. What level of service do you need? Do you just need drop-off catering, or will you require full-service staff, bartenders, or chefs on-site? Understanding these details in advance can help streamline the planning process. By thinking through these details beforehand, you’ll be better prepared to communicate your vision, and your caterer will be able to create an experience that exceeds your expectations.