FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the minimum numbers for catering from Red Kiwi?
If your event is on a weekday, our minimum number for delivery is 10 guests. If your event is at the weekend, our minimum delivery is 70 guests. If you're holding your event at The Town Hall in Colchester there's no minimum guest number at any time.

Can you recommend any other suppliers or venues?
We have years of experience in the event industry and our little black book is at your disposal! Take advantage of our free consultancy service, or just ask for ideas on any aspect of your event. Although we're based at the Town Hall in Colchester, we cater all over Colchester and the surrounding area so if The Town Hall isn't right for you, we can help find your perfect venue.

I'm worried about running out of food! Will there be enough?
Yes! Our menus and buffets are very carefully designed to make sure that every guest can eat their fill. We'll also deliver enough clean china plates and cutlery for everyone to dine from (even if a few get lost or broken).

Can you cater for special dietary needs?
Yes – and we think it's really important to do so – there's nothing worse than being a vegan at a bangers-and-mash buffet! We've catered for guests who are vegan, gluten or lactose intolerant, and guests with religious dietary needs. If you've just one or two guests that are, for example, vegan, we'll provide a separate personal plated buffet for them. Please discuss this with us – if many of your guests are vegetarian or vegan then we'll adapt the menu accordingly. Halal meat can also be provided at no extra charge.

Do you provide staff?
The prices displayed online include delivery and collection, but not staff (unless otherwise stated). If your event is at the Town Hall in Colchester we'll provide one member of staff to help with clearing plates at the end of the evening. If your event is somewhere else or you'd like staff to serve food or drinks, just ask for a quote.

Can you provide wine for our reception and toast drinks?
Yes, we can – and it saves you from driving around with a boot full of champagne boxes! We may need to obtain a licence to sell alcohol at your venue so please let us know in plenty of time.

What does the buffet price include?
It includes everything you need to lay out and enjoy your buffet - tablecloths for the buffet table, china or disposable plates, cutlery and serviettes.

Where do you prepare the food?
We prepare most of the food at our premises and deliver it to you in a refrigerated van. For some menus we might require preparation or cooking facilities on site at your venue.

How can we be assured that we'll be pleased with your service and food?
We know it's a worry but have a look at our testimonial page for some reassurance. All these comments are from real customers (you're welcome to call in and see the letters).

Last year we underwent a rigorous tender process for a catering contract with Colchester Borough Council. Quality and service were major considerations for the contract which we're very pleased to have won – so we now provide all the council's business lunches and refreshments and regularly cater for the Mayor and Mayoress of Colchester.

Where do your ingredients come from?
Everything is locally sourced where possible. All our meat and eggs are from a local butcher, FJ Martins, and our fruit and vegetables are provided by local suppliers. We're planning to offer a completely organic menu in the near future – if you'd like to find out more please contact us.

Can we change the menus?
Of course! You're welcome to mix and match menu choices, or we can devise a unique menu just for you. If you're looking for ideas, give us some details about your event, guests, and budget, and we'll suggest a couple of menus for you to consider.

Why should we choose Red Kiwi Catering?
Regular customers will tell you that we really do care about our guests – from providing last-minute extra plates to staying late and clearing up, our staff go the extra mile to make your event a success. Whether you're holding a business lunch for 10 or a wedding buffet for 300, we'll make the time to give you personal advice and exceptional service. There's an ulterior motive here too… For every booking, our aim is to leave you so delighted with our service that you'll recommend us to others and come back for more!

What are your Terms and Conditions?
Our Terms and Conditions outline our service and commitment to you. If you're still considering which caterer to choose, make sure you ask for a copy of their T&C to protect yourself in case of any dispute. (All professional companies will have them.) You can read ours here.