Frequently Asked Questions

We at Phil's Catering have put together a dozen or so our our most frequently asked questions in hope that they will answer some of the questions you may have as well. If they don't, please do not hesitate to ask us your questions as we enjoy conversing with our clients and potential clients.

Who’s Phil?

N# 1 asked question!
Phil “Philbert” Vierra is Gary’s Dad
Gary Vierra is the founder of Phil’s Catering Service
Gary started his catering business in 1986 and named his catering business after his father
Dad loved to cook
Philbert E. Vierra
1947-2011

What is the best process for getting to know more about your catering company and what service your company offers?

1. Send us an email or give us a call! We're happy to chat with you and answer frequently asked questions and tell you more about our services and menu.
2. Request a quote.
3. Schedule a tasting
4. Request a sample contract to review

I need to work with a budget.

We're happy to work with clients that are operating on a budget! We can guide you to more cost-effective menu and service options. No matter the budget, we will provide excellent food and service.

Is the cost of cake cutting included in your all of your wedding quotes?

Sure does!

Does Coffee service come with the Cake cutting service?

Yes, we provide coffee with all the accoutrements.

Food Tastings

Our tastings are held in Atascadero and are by appointment only. We offer tastings Tuesday through Friday, and select Saturday mornings. The tasting fee is $145 per person, with a max of 4. If you book our services at the conclusion of the tasting, a portion the tasting fee is credited towards your wedding catering total. Most tastings will take up to 45 minutes and we will review your services, rentals and or other details of your wedding day.

Can we add a Signature drink to our Bar service?

If a client wishes to provide 1 or 2 signature drinks that are 100% ready to serve there is no additional charge.

Do you have liquor liability coverage?

No, the client or site must supply this coverage, if required.

Do you have a set menu? Can the menu be modified?

We work with our clients to create custom a unique, custom menu that fits their needs and the needs of their event.

Will the appetizers be served by staff or at a station?

That is up to the client and the type of appetizers they select. We suggest a combination of passed and stationed appetizers.

Do we have to have our guests choose an entree on their RSVP?

Only if you have a plated dinner service.
If your service is a buffet style service there isn’t a need to ask your guests which entrée they wish to have. We estimate 45% of your guest will chose chicken and 55% will chose steak and or a combination of the two. If you feel this ratio is incorrect please advise and we will adjust

Do you provide vegetarian meals and if so what do charge?

Yes, we provide meals for a variety of food sensitivities. We're happy to discuss the various options available.

À la carte vegetarian option – how does this work? How do the vegetarians get their meal?

The chef will be at the end of the buffet line and the vegetarian guest can request their vegetarian entree at that time.

Do you set the tables with the dinnerware?

Yes, if requested and it is during our service time.

Will you put floral arrangements out on the guests’ tables?

Yes, we can set centerpieces out on your guest tables for you but other decorations i.e. party favors, place cards may have an additional fee associated with your final service cost.

Are you a licensed caterer?

Yes. Business licensed for the City of Atascadero where our main kitchen facility is located.

Do you have a County Heath inspected kitchen?

Yes, we are a County and State inspected facility.

Will your company do a site check if requested?

Site Checks conducted three weeks prior to the date of your event are FREE. Site Checks conducted less than 21 days prior to the date of your event cost $50.00

When is the final guest count due?

16 days prior to your date of event

When is the final payment due?

14 days prior to your date of event

What is the policy for payment, cash, checks or credit cards?

We accept cash, check, Venmo, and credit card payments. Please note that there is a 3.5% processing fee for card transactions.

You charged us 8.75% tax for everything, but that is more than the tax in our area.

We base sales tax from our business location in Atascadero in San Luis County and that is the California Tax Law.

Do you have any recommendations for where our wedding guests can stay locally?

Certainly! Next door to our kitchen is the beautiful Atascadero Lodge. Check it out here: https://www.philscatering.com/vacation-rentals-owner/atascadero-lodge/