Discover Top-Rated Catering Companies for Unforgettable Events
Find the catering company that speaks English.
Magali
Bilge
Cultivate
Mesa
Léonie
Jason
I used Magali’s savory catering for my kids’ birthday in August and it was good. She delivered everything on the day and the communication was fine, no dietary restrictions needed....
Celebrating my birthday with friends was made special with the personalized chef services. We requested Turkish cuisine, and Bilge not only adapted it for Portuguese tastes but also accommodated our...
I’ve used Melanie’s catering a few times, eating on my own and also bringing vegan meals home for my husband and two kids. The ingredients were really fresh, the presentation...
Mesa Fresca came into my life right when I needed it, as I just returned to work after a long break. And it's been so lovely for my family. We...
I recently used Piato, with Léonie as our caterer, for a party and it was fantastic. Everything we had planned in advance turned out perfectly. The food was very fresh...
Planning a birthday dinner can be nerve-wracking, but Jason made it seamless. He has an amazing way of creating unique dishes that you just can't find elsewhere, like the delightful...
Frequently Asked Questions
Lisbon caterers typically offer flexible options: drop‑off catering, buffet or family‑style, plated fine‑dining, cocktail canapés, barbecue, and private chef experiences. For businesses, corporate boxed lunches and coffee breaks are common. Decide early whether you need full‑service staff and bar, or a simpler delivery-only service to manage costs and logistics.
Prices are set by each Lisbon catering company, but common ranges help planning. Drop‑off or boxed lunches may start around €12–€25 per person; buffets €25–€50; plated or wedding menus €60–€120+, plus rentals, staff and bar. You’ll agree payment terms directly with the caterer, based on your brief and date.
For small parties in Lisbon, book a caterer 4–8 weeks ahead; for weddings and large corporate events, 3–9 months is safer, especially May to October. Popular weekends fill fast. Last‑minute availability is possible, but menu choice and staffing may be limited, and delivery windows tighter.
Most Lisbon caterers can accommodate vegan, vegetarian, gluten‑free, dairy‑free and nut‑free diets with clear notice. Halal is often available on request; fully kosher usually requires specialist suppliers or approved kitchens. Confirm cross‑contamination procedures, separate utensils, and labelling, and ask for a detailed allergen sheet for every dish.
To assess quality, request a tasting, recent event photos and at least two references from international clients. Review response times, clarity of proposals and staffing ratios. Ensure the contract outlines menu details, timings, rentals, breakages and cancellations, and that the caterer carries appropriate insurance for your venue and guest numbers.
Full‑service catering in Lisbon often covers menu design, chefs, waiters, bar staff, delivery, set‑up and clean‑down. Tableware, glassware, linens, furniture and mobile bars may be included or hired separately. Ask about corkage, cake‑cutting, rubbish removal, overtime and post‑event cleaning so there are no surprises on the day.
Yes—many Lisbon catering companies are English‑speaking and used to serving expats and international teams. Confirm your account manager and on‑site supervisor are bilingual, and ask for English menus, tastings and safety briefings. Clear communication reduces mistakes, keeps service smooth and ensures your guests’ dietary needs are correctly handled.
Popular event menus in Lisbon blend Portuguese flavours—seafood, bacalhau, petiscos and pastel de nata—with Mediterranean and global options. Caterers frequently offer tapas‑style canapés for cocktail receptions, barbecue buffets, and modern vegan interpretations. Pairing with local wines or a port bar adds a distinctly Lisbon touch for weddings and corporate events.
Short‑notice catering is possible in Lisbon, but expect limited menus and delivery slots. Many companies set minimums—often 10–30 guests for staffed events—while private chefs can serve intimate dinners. Contact providers with your date, timings and dietary needs; flexibility on dishes and service style helps secure availability.
To compare quotes fairly, send the same brief to each Lisbon caterer: headcount, service style, duration, rentals, bar, dietary splits and venue access. Ask for a per‑person and total breakdown, whether VAT, travel and overtime are included, and what equipment, staffing hours and clean‑up are covered.
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Dos and Don’ts to choose the right Catering companies as an Expat
Key dos and don’ts for selecting the perfect catering service for your event
Select a catering service provider who demonstrates excellent communication skills from the outset. The right partner will promptly respond to inquiries, proactively provide updates, and remain available for any adjustments needed, ensuring a seamless planning experience.
Opt for a caterer that offers a variety of customizable menu options to accommodate your guests' dietary preferences and restrictions. Look for providers who are willing to tailor their offerings, ensuring every attendee finds something delicious to enjoy.
Choose a catering service that excels in creating tailor-made experiences. A personal touch in menu selection and presentation can elevate your event, making it feel more special and memorable for both you and your guests.
Make sure to inquire about the quality and freshness of ingredients used by potential caterers. High-quality, fresh ingredients not only enhance the flavor of the food but also reflect the professionalism and commitment of the catering provider.
Avoid catering companies with a history of poor communication. Reviews indicate that many customers value timely and clear communication before, during, and after the service, which can greatly impact your event's success.
Be cautious of catering services that don’t explicitly mention their ability to handle special dietary requirements. Past reviews highlight the importance of confirming that the caterer can meet specific requests for allergies or preferences to avoid unsatisfactory experiences.
While online reviews are beneficial, do not base your entire decision on them. It's essential to reach out and ask questions to gauge the caterer's responsiveness and service quality, as personal experiences can vary significantly.
Ensure you clarify any additional charges related to set-up and clean-up with the catering service upfront. Customers have mentioned unexpected costs that affected their budget, so clear agreements before the event are crucial.
Selecting the ideal catering company is crucial to ensuring your event is memorable and enjoyable for all attendees. With the right approach, including effective communication and a focus on quality, you can elevate your dining experience. By adhering to these dos and don’ts, you'll be prepared to navigate the catering landscape with confidence, steering clear of common pitfalls while connecting with a provider who can meet your needs. Remember, a successful event starts with thoughtful planning, and the right caterer can turn your vision into a delicious reality.
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