The Catering Supplies You Need to Have

As a caterer, ensuring that your services are clean and organized is vital to running a successful business. Since most catering gigs happen remotely, you’ve got to make sure your essentials are always ready to go. We’ll admit—the list of everything you need can get super long and intimidating. 

To make it easier for you, we at S.T.O.P. Restaurant Supply have created a complete list of serving and catering supplies you need to have in your moving storage!

With this catering supplies checklist, you’ll always be ready to achieve business goals and maintain good client relationships.

Table of Contents

• Table Settings
• Disposable Catering Supplies
• Transport Supplies
• Serving Equipment 
• Cleaning Supplies 

A. Table Settings

First up, you’ll need to complete your table settings, such as cutleries, plates, and tablecloths. Below are the essentials:

1. Dinnerware 

No matter how incredible your dishes are, they won't look appetizing if they aren't served on great plates and bowls. Make sure you stock up on various sizes! 

2. Flatware 

As a catering service, your dinnerware needs complimentary flatware. These are spoons, forks, and knives for different dishes on your menu. 

3. Charger Plate 

Add spice to your table by including a charger plate. Aside from having a decorative purpose, it also retains the heat of your hot meals. 

4. Glassware 

Don't underestimate the power of stunning glassware. Whether it's wine goblets or water glasses, the right pieces can add major aesthetic value to the table.

B. Disposable Catering Supplies

Always prepare sets of disposable catering supplies for the convenience of your customers. After all, some people find them more hygienic. Have these readily available:

1. Plastic Cutlery 

Bringing plastic cutlery to your catering events can save you from a dinnerware shortage disaster. These are also helpful in reducing clean-up time.

2. Disposable Cups 

Simultaneously, disposable cups can solve the problem of glassware shortage. Using these also lessens the possibility of having to deal with broken glasses. 

3. Foil Pans 

If your customers ask for takeout, foil pans are a good choice since they’re malleable and lightweight.

4. Aluminum Foil 

Prevent contamination and food from falling out of pans by covering them with aluminum foil. It retains heat to keep your dishes fresh throughout the day.

C. Transport Supplies

Don’t overlook the transporting elements of your catering services, since your dishes can get ruined due to temperature changes! Prevent that from happening with these necessities:

1. Catering Bag 

When you’re going places, an insulated catering bag is your best friend! Find one with an ergonomic design to make it easy to carry things around. 

2. Glass Racks 

Glassware is fragile, so storing it properly is necessary to prevent breakage. A wide rack is perfect since it has multiple slots and thick walls.

3. Food Storage Boxes 

If you’re worried about spilled food due to transportation, a food storage box can help. This airtight container keeps your dishes and ingredients fresh for a long time.

D. Serving Equipment

Your staff needs efficient materials to serve food and drinks to the customers successfully. Make that happen by preparing the following items: 

1. Serving Trays

Serving trays assist in safely delivering dishes from the kitchen to the tables. They're lightweight, making it easier for your servers to carry them around.

2. Tray Stands 

When there are too many dishes to serve, propping a tray stand eases the stress on your servers. Say "hello" to quick and efficient serving while avoiding dropped plates.

3. Chafers 

If you’re hosting a buffet catering, use chafers to keep your dishes warm throughout the event. The Full-Size Economy Chafer from Browne is a fantastic—and affordable—option with a 2-inch deep food pan, dripless water pan, and satin finish dome cover.

4. Serving Utensils 

Maintain the sanitation of your dishes by providing serving utensils. Make sure your guests utilize them instead of using their used cutlery to serve themselves.

5. Water Pitchers 

Effortlessly serve water or other beverages to your customers with water pitchers. 

6. Aprons 

Keep your staff looking neat by providing stylish aprons. These can catch food spillage and prevent it from getting through to their clothes or skin. 

E. Cleaning Supplies 

Of course, you shouldn’t forget to keep your working area clean! Here’s a list of the basic cleaning supplies you’ll need for every catering gig:

1. Garbage Bags and Cans 

Dispose of your food waste into garbage bags, then segregate other items into recycle bins. These keep your area clean and prevent foul odors from entering the dining area. 

2. Handwashing Sink 

By providing handwashing sinks for guests, you can efficiently prevent the spread of germs. Ensure you bring out liquid soap (not bar soap!) and paper towels so everyone can wash and dry their hands properly before sitting down to eat.

3. Hand Sanitizer 

If incorporating handwashing sinks isn't feasible, then having hand sanitizer available at the venue would work too. 

4. Cleaning Towels 

Spillage of food or drinks can't always be prevented, so best be prepared by having mico-fibre rags ready. These towels can soak up all the liquid and keep the dining area sparkly clean. 

Where to Buy Catering Supplies 

Now, are you wondering where to buy catering supplies? 

We also have the answer to that: look no further than S.T.O.P. Restaurant Supply! We're a leading provider of equipment and materials for restaurants, caterers, and home cooking enthusiasts. All the catering supplies you need for your next gig are available here. 

Check out our catalog and start adding your necessities to your cart!