Handheld Catering and Events

Yes we do and also have relationships with many venues which makes it extremely valuable to you the client, making your event stress free. That means we have catered there before and know what they expect, and honor their rules. We assist you through the whole process of planning this event. But you will also need to make sure that you have asked yourself all the most important questions about the venue. You will need to start out with an idea in mind for what you are planning. What are the goals of your event? How many people will be attending? What activities do you want to provide? What is your budget and schedule? Once you figure out these basics, you can start evaluating different event venues.

Event Manager: $40 per hour On-Site Chef: $57 per hour Bartender: $40 per hour Event Staff: $35per hour Kitchen Staff: $30-37 per hour

We charge for our staff by the hour, based on a five hour minimum per staff person. We do our best to estimate the amount of time that our staff will be needed for your event. However, since many variables exist, the final cost is based on the actual time worked. For large full service events, we require an Event Manager to oversee staff and ensure the coordination of a successful event.

We can add on quality bio-degradable paper or heavy duty plastic plates and eating utensils. We do provide a linen for the buffet and will set up any necessary chaffing dishes. For themed events we provide buffet décor. If you prefer china and silverware, we will be happy to make arrangements, however these items require that our staff be present at your event.

We bring a buffet to you, set it up and return later to pick up non-disposable serving items. There are no servers. A delivery & pick-up fee is charged. This option works best for informal corporate events and informal parties. Delivery/pickup charges without staff begin at $60 for the South Bay area. Outside the South Bay/Peninsula or after office hours, there will be an additional charge depending on circumstances.

Gratuities are not itemized in the bill (unless directed to do so by the client), nor are they required. They are, however, graciously accepted by our staff for a job well done. A gratuity of $25-60 per staff member or a percentage of the total is customary. We do not put tip jars on bars for private parties and weddings.

The Service Charge offsets Labor, Administrative Fees, Dishwshing, packing for your event, shopping for food, clean up, site visits, working with rental companies, etc. The catering fee is not a gratuity and is subject to state and local tax laws.

When we provide your personalized proposal, we list of all of our estimated charges in order to provide you with a complete proposal. In addition to the package per person price, we include the following in each proposal: rental upgrades or additions (that we obtain on your behalf), labor charges for service staff, and sales tax.

As a general rule, we provide one server for every 25 people at a buffet. We provide one server for every 10-12 people at a sit down dinner. However, the server ratio depends on how formal or complicated the event is and may be reduced or increased, depending on these factors. A lavish six-course, sit-down dinner may require one server per 10-12 guests with additional bussers to clear in a timely manner. Or a very simple buffet many only require 1 server for 35 people. Using your event details, we will recommend the minimum. Therefore we have a two server minimum for events.

We will dress and set the tables, clear the tables, and clean the service/kitchen area, leaving it as we have found it. If you wish us to set up and breakdown the tables and chairs there is an additional fee.

No, it is included in the price.

Our trained, professional staff are attired either in black and white uniforms or in all black uniforms with long, black bistro aprons. They are professional, neat, and always ready to help! We do like to blend in with the theme ie: Luau attire, or BBQ Attire.

No. We will open and serve beverages you supply at no additional charge

Yes. Our bartenders and servers are trained, professional, and just plain nice! We carry full liability insurance for both food and alcohol service. As a general rule, you need to allow one bartender per 100 guests for beer and wine bars and one bartender per 75 guests for full bar service.

While HandHeld is not licensed to sell alcohol at this moment, we are in the process of acquiring a full license. We do maintain the necessary liability insurance to serve your guests if you provide the alcohol. We can provide you with recommendations on where to find the best buys and offer suggestions on selections and even secure and coordinate a liquor license for the specific event.

Yes. Children 5 to 10 years old are 50% of the adult price. Children 4 and under are free, but are counted for seating.

Yes, our Executive Chef is happy to prepare a selection of menu items for your enjoyment when you come in to plan your event. Since we do not keep premium or non-seasonal ingredients on-hand for tastings, we must usually shop locally for ingredients at retail stores. To off-set some of our out-of-pocket expenses, we charge $100 per person for tastings. If you sign a contract with us, we will deduct 100% of the tasting charges from your balance due.

Wedding receptions typically book 4-12 months in advance. Corporate events usually have a shorter lead time. If we're available, we can provide corporate lunches with a 48 hour notice. We suggest reserving your date as soon as it is confirmed. Summer weekends and all dates in December fill very quickly.

We have wide variety of vegetarian, vegan and other special needs menu items. When you come in to plan your event, we will discuss your dietary needs and suggest a menu that will be suitable for you and your guests. Please tell us if we need to consider food allergies.

Absolutely! We love to help you create a special menu just for your party! All of the menus on this website are completely customizable, you are welcome to make any additions or changes you prefer.

Yes. Not only can we arrange for the rental of the usual party items such as tables, chairs, linens, china, glassware and silverware, but we also have access to fine china, crystal, and specialty linens. We can also arrange for larger items such as canopies, stages and dance floors.