- What types of events do you cater to?
We cater to a wide range of events, including weddings, corporate meetings, private parties, birthday parties, anniversary, ground-breaking ceremonies and much more.
- Can you accommodate dietary restrictions or special requests?
Absolutely, we are adaptable and can cater to a variety of dietary restrictions and special requests. Kindly inform us of your specific requirements, and we’ll collaborate with you to craft a personalized menu. While we take every precaution to prevent food contamination, it’s important to note that there is a potential for cross-contamination since we use a variety of products in our kitchen. Therefore, we cannot guarantee that the food will be entirely free from allergens.
- How do I place a catering order?
You can place a catering order by contacting us through our website, phone, or email. Our team will assist you in selecting the right menu for your event.
- How much lead time do you need for catering orders?
The lead time depends on the size and complexity of the event. For standard orders, we recommend placing them at least 72 hours in advance. For larger events, more lead time may be required.
- Can I make changes to my catering order after it's been placed?
We will do our best to accommodate changes whenever possible. Please contact us as soon as possible to discuss any modifications to your order.
- Is there a minimum order requirement for catering?
Yes, there is typically a minimum order requirement for catering services. We require a minimum of 20 people for any event except for orders from our corporate menu.
- How is the food delivered and set up?
For delivery choices, we can arrange for food to be delivered at your preferred time. It’s important to note that set-up options are not provided with food deliveries. However, we do offer both drop-off and full-service catering alternatives. Our team is dedicated to collaborating with you to guarantee that the setup aligns with your expectations.
- What is included in the catering service?
Our catering service typically includes food preparation, delivery or on-site setup, serving staff (if required), and clean-up. Specific inclusions may vary, so it’s best to discuss your needs with our team.
- What is your cancellation policy?
Our cancellation policy depends on the type and size of the event. Generally, we require notice within a specified timeframe to avoid cancellation fees. Details will be provided during the booking process. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.
- Can I schedule a tasting session before finalizing my menu?
Yes, we offer tasting sessions for events with more than 50 people. Please inquire about availability, and we will be happy to arrange a tasting session for you.
- Can you provide recommendations for menu options based on my event type and preferences?
Absolutely! Our experienced team can provide menu recommendations tailored to your event, theme & dietary preferences.
- What payment methods do you accept?
We accept various payment methods, including credit cards & bank transfers. Details on payment options will be provided during the booking process.
- Do you provide serving staff for events, and how are they dressed?
Yes, we offer professional serving staff for events. They are typically dressed in uniform attire which involves a white formal shirt, a black tie, black trousers and an apron.
- Can you assist with event planning beyond catering, such as rentals and decorations?
We can collaborate with trusted partners to assist with additional event planning needs, including rentals, decorations, and other services. Let us know your requirements, and we’ll help coordinate those aspects.
- What is your policy on leftovers?
Our policy regarding leftovers varies. In most cases, clients are welcome to keep any remaining food. We can provide guidelines on safe storage and reheating.
- How do you handle last-minute orders or changes?
While we encourage advance planning, we understand that circumstances can change. Contact us as soon as possible, and we will do our best to accommodate last-minute orders or changes.
- Can you accommodate events with specific cultural or ethnic food preferences?
Absolutely! We specialize in diverse cuisines and are happy to customize menus to accommodate specific cultural or ethnic preferences.
- Do you use halal meat?
Yes, we can provide Halal meat on request.
- What regions do you cover?
Our central hub is in Oakleigh, and our services span across various areas, encompassing the Mornington Peninsula, Metro Melbourne, Greater Melbourne, and the Yarra Valley, among others.
- What are your business hours?
We are available from 9 AM to 4 PM, Monday through Friday by appointment only.
- How do you ensure high-quality catering for private home parties and milestone birthdays?
We specialise in seamless catering for intimate home gatherings, milestone birthday party catering (such as 40th and 50th celebrations) and private anniversary party catering. From initial quote customisation to quiet, thorough setup, food execution, and complete post-event kitchen cleanup – our team provides end-to-end catering service that covers everything.
- What can we expect from your wedding reception canapé catering and after-party catering services?
Our team provides flexible, professional wedding reception catering designed around your schedule and venue requirements. Whether providing elegant canapés for your primary reception or managing a late-night wedding after-gathering, we coordinate directly with venue management to ensure timing is precise and service runs without interruption.
- Do you offer substantial canapé options for cocktail-style events so guests feel full?
Yes, our cocktail and canapé catering menus feature both delicate bite-sized items and substantial canapé options designed to provide a complete meal experience. We calculate optimal menu variety and portions per head so your guests are consistently served fresh, high-quality dishes throughout the night.
- How does Big Flavours accommodate food allergies and custom dietary requirements for buffet catering?
We accommodate strict dietary requirements and food allergies across all our service styles, including multi-course buffets and seated dining. During the planning phase, we review your guest list for specific dietary needs (such as severe allergies or specialised preferences) to prepare safe, dedicated allergy-friendly buffet catering without compromising on presentation or taste.
- Can Big Flavours provide multi-course sit-down dinner meals alongside table settings and bar service?
In addition to cocktail-style canapés and buffets, we offer structured 2-course and 3-course plated sit-down meals for formal anniversary celebrations and private gatherings. We can also provide complete event support, including tableware, dishware, professional waitstaff, and dedicated bar service.
- Will your catering team clean up the kitchen and event space afterwards?
Yes. Our full-service catering packages include set-up, food prep, service execution, and a complete post-event clean-up. Our staff ensure your kitchen and prep areas are left immaculate before leaving, allowing you to focus entirely on hosting your guests.
- How far in advance should we request a quote for private or corporate event catering?
We recommend requesting a quote as early as possible, especially for weekend celebrations, weddings, and peak party seasons. Our team works closely with you through clear, prompt communication from the initial inquiry to final menu selection to make your planning process completely stress-free.
- Can I order hot buffet catering in Melbourne that actually arrives fresh, hot, and on time?
Yes, a recurring highlight across our 130+ Google reviews is our uncompromised punctuality and temperature management. Our team utilises commercial insulated transport equipment and plans local South-East Melbourne transit routes carefully. As our clients often share in their reviews, your hot dishes arrive piping hot, beautifully presented, and ready to serve immediately upon delivery.
- How do you handle severe food allergies, Vegan, and Halal catering requirements for large groups?
We treat dietary management with extreme rigour. Many of our client reviews compliment how easy we make hosting guests with complex dietary needs. Our chef-led kitchen prepares distinct, certified variations for Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Vegan, and Halal guests in dedicated preparation spaces, ensuring every tray is clearly labelled and served safely without compromising on flavour or presentation.
- Is there enough food provided in your event catering menus, or will I need to order extra?
You won’t need to worry about guest portions. One of the most frequent compliments in our client reviews is the generosity of our portion sizes. Whether you choose our passed canapés catering or a full buffet catering setup, our menus are meticulously engineered by professional chefs to ensure every guest feels fully satisfied throughout your entire event.
- Can Big Flavours provide full-service waitstaff and setup for home birthday parties or engagement functions?
Absolutely, as highlighted in many of our residential party reviews across Bayside and South-East Melbourne, we offer optional, professional waitstaff and floor service. Our team arrives early to manage food setup, pass finger food, refresh serving stations, and clean up the kitchen area afterwards so you can relax and focus on hosting your guests.
