If you are planning a large event, either corporate or personal, in New York City then you are in luck. The Big Apple is home to some of the country's best caterers. Depending on the size of your event, you may want to hire one of the New York catering companies that provides everything from table and chairs to food and liquor. Or, if your function is smaller, a food-only caterer should suffice.

Before settling on any one New York catering service, decide which one will be best for your particular event. Before selecting from among the many NY catering companies, you'll need to:

1. Determine what services you require.
2. Figure out which questions you want to ask potential NY catering companies.
3. Identify the best catering deal for your dollar.
   

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Decide what services you want from your New York City caterers

Choosing an all-inclusive caterer is a good idea for corporate catering. New York caterers who offer 'event planning' as part of their services can coordinate everything from the menu to the room layout to centerpieces. On the other hand, if you are only in need of some light catering, such as a business luncheon, try a smaller catering service. New York restaurants that cater should not be overlooked in your search for a catering company. Because of their buying power, many restaurants that cater offer better prices than independent caterers.

I recommend: NYC Caterers and Party Planners offers one stop shopping for your corporate catering in New York. Simply Elegant Caterers is another off-premise catering company that can handle all details, big and small for corporate affairs and events.

Know how to interview a potential New York food catering business

Have a list of questions ready when you are meeting with caterers. New York is filled with hundreds of catering business, so narrowing down the choices can be difficult if you don't know what to ask. Common questions include information about the staff to guest ratio, how the caterer handles dietary restrictions, and whether the caterer is licensed to serve alcohol. If you don't like the answers you get from a caterer, then move on the next catering business on your list.

I recommend: Party On and USA Weekend both have a list of helpful questions to ask a caterer.

Shop around for the best deals on New York catering

Catering in New York covers a range of prices from modest to luxury budgets. To get the best deal, compare prices and services of several caterers. If you have a particular theme or menu in mind, New York City has caterers that specialize in several types of cuisine, such as Italian, Kosher or Indian.

I recommend: Both NYC.com and the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce offers a complete list of NY catering companies. Visit their websites or call for information about menus, prices and services they offer.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Don't be afraid to try negotiating prices with a catering service. New York caterers will often throw in 'freebies' to win a lucrative catering job like a large corporate event.