Frequently Asked Questions

Linens & Rentals

Are linens included?
Buffet table linen is included. Table linens and linen napkins are available for rental at select venues within 10 miles of our location.

Can I rent a tent, tables, or chairs through you?
No, but we can refer you to reputable rental companies. We do offer glassware, china, silverware, and linens for rent. Buffet table linen and serving equipment are included at no charge.

Do you provide utensils, glassware, and dinnerware?
Yes. Buffet and serving equipment are included. China, silverware, water goblets, and wine glasses are available for rental.

Event Timing & Service

Can I delay the scheduled dinner time on the day of the event?
To ensure food quality, last-minute changes are discouraged. If a delay is unavoidable, we must be informed prior to delivery to avoid additional hourly charges.

How long will you be at the event?
Catering service includes up to 2 hours of setup and 2–4 hours of service, depending on menu selections.

How many events do you handle on the same day?
We handle only one outside event per date, ensuring exclusive focus on your event.

Food & Menu Options

Do you offer custom menus?
Yes. All menus are fully customizable to match your event, dietary preferences, and theme.

Do you offer vegan options?
Yes! We have a variety of vegan dishes and can create something delicious to meet your needs.

Do you accommodate food allergies?
Absolutely. We routinely design menus to accommodate common allergies, including gluten, nuts, shellfish, and more. Most of our buffet menus already accommodate gluten-free needs.

Do you provide drop-off catering?
Yes. Disposable containers, napkins, plates, and flatware are included. The 25% service fee is waived, and a 12% delivery fee applies based on distance. Pick-up is also available.

Do you cook onsite?
All food is prepared in our licensed, insured commercial kitchen in Kenosha, WI. Final preparations and plating are done onsite.

Beverages & Bar Service

Do you provide bartending services?
Yes. Bartenders are available for $45 per hour. When beverages are provided by us, a 20% service fee applies, and hourly charges are waived.

Can we bring our own alcohol?
If your venue allows it, yes. However, if we provide bar service, only Sophisticatering may supply alcohol during event hours.

Event Logistics & Staffing

Do you provide staff for events?
Yes. We provide servers and bartenders for plated meals, family-style dining, and buffets.

What type of uniform do the staff wear?
Staff wear professional attire: black pants, dress shirt, and tie. For a casual feel, polo shirts with black pants are available.

How many servers will be provided?
Generally, 1 server per 30 guests for buffets, and 1 server per 20 guests for plated or family-style meals.

Do you set up table décor?
Yes. We can assist with décor setup for an additional fee, based on complexity.

Meal Service Options

Buffet: Guests serve themselves; seconds allowed.

Family Style: Dishes are passed at the table; seconds allowed.

Stationed: Guests visit stations; some items may be cooked onsite.

Plated: Guests choose from 2–3 options via RSVP cards; servers deliver meals.

Combo Plated: Smaller portions of two entrees; no RSVP tracking needed.

Cocktail Reception: Food can be stationed or passed; plan for guest consumption accordingly.

Pricing & Payment

Can you give a ballpark estimate?
Catering generally ranges from $30–$100 per guest, including food, staff, rentals, tax, and gratuity. Exact costs depend on menu, rentals, and venue.

Do you charge a service fee?
Yes. A 25% service fee covers staff wages, equipment, licensing, insurance, travel, and other event expenses. Tipping is optional but appreciated.

Do you charge sales tax?
Yes, according to Wisconsin sales tax rates at your venue location.

What forms of payment are accepted?
Cash, checks, and Venmo.

What is the deposit requirement?
A 25% non-refundable deposit of the estimated invoice is required to reserve your date.

When is the final count and payment due?
Final guest count and payment are due 10 days prior to the event. Guest count may be increased with approval but cannot be lowered.

What if my estimated guest count drops substantially?
Significant decreases (50% or more) may require an adjustment in per-person pricing.

Why does catering cost so much?
Catering replicates a restaurant-quality experience offsite. Costs reflect logistics, staff, rentals, and freshly prepared meals.

Other FAQs

Do you provide wedding cake cutting service?
Yes. Included at no cost if the cake is provided by us. Optional cake-cutting stations: $1.50 per person, or $2.50 with table service.

Is leftover food allowed to be taken home?
Due to health codes, leftover buffet food is generally not given to clients. Exceptions may be made for private homes with safe storage.

Do you offer food tastings?
Personal tastings are not available. However, “Ye Olde Madrigal Feaste” in December offers ticketed tasting experiences; ticket costs are deductible if you book your event.

Will the owner be onsite?
Yes. One or both owners will be present for the duration of your event.

How far in advance should I book?
We recommend 9–12 months prior, especially for peak wedding season (May–October).

Do you provide drop-off or pickup service?
Yes. Food can be picked up, delivered, or fully staffed onsite.