Catering : a guide to managing a successful business operation / Bruce Mattel

Includes index.

Introduction to catering -- Starting your catering business -- Pricing for profit -- Setting up the catering kitchen -- Staffing -- Marketing -- Event planning -- How can we serve you? -- Food preparation and service -- Dining room and beverage management -- Sample menus and service.

"Beginning with an overview of the catering profession, this book explains the various kinds of career opportunities available as well as the skills you need to succeed. It walks you through every aspect of operating a catering business. For each topic covered, Catering provides detailed information and guidance on best practices, complete with the hands-on examples and insider tips you need to troubleshoot difficulties and creatively meet challenges in your own catering business." "This invaluable reference is full of tools and resources to help your operation succeed. To assist you with the practical aspects of your operation, you'll find a detailed sample business plan, helpful recommendations on staffing and equipment, complete examples of how to price events, and much more. And to make sure your service and food receive accolades, you'll find in-depth advice on service styles, tips on active buffet stations, and sample menus for a wide range of events. Featuring more than 70 instructive photographs and illustrations throughout, Catering is your road map to a thriving catering business, whether you're new to the field or a veteran caterer who wants to improve performance."