FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: Do you cater food?
A: No, we out source caterers, and provide servers and bartenders for/ private clubs, event venues and private functions. In some cases, we are contracted to help with food preparation and presentation if needed.
Q: What is your staff uniform?
A: Our standard uniform is Tuxedo shirt, black pants, bowtie and vest. In some cases we will dress more casual or for themed events.
Q: What are your hours of operation?
A: When possible, we answer all A La Carte business phone inquiries 7 days a week. However, if you receive our voice mail, we are probably managing an event, so please leave a message as we take all inquiries seriously and are glad to answer any questions you may have.
Q: Can you provide referrals for my function?
A: Yes, with over 15 years of food and beverage experience working in the New Jersey and surrounding areas we are happy to provide any information and recommendations to help you find the right location and providers for your event.
Q: I am hosting a dinner party in my home and providing my own food. What type of help can I expect from your staff?
A: We are happy to heat, plate, garnish, etc. any food items you might have. Light cooking is also possible. Our select staff of in home servers is very versatile and can help in the kitchen, bartend, set up food service, serve, hang coats and answer the door. We will keep the kitchen clean, wash dishes, take out trash, anything to help you enjoy and host your guests with the least amount of supervision and prep work for yourself.
Q: What bar items and how much liquor do I need for my event?
A: We will consult with you for how much and what items you might need. We will then provide a complete list of all items necessary for your function.
Q: I need to rent tables, chairs, etc. for my event, can you tell me how many I will need?
A: Yes, we are happy to provide full consultation upon hiring us for your event.
Q: How do I break down the rental items at the end of my event?
A: A La Carte will prepare and arrange all items in a presentable manner for the rental company to pick up.
Q: Do you provide wedding coordinators?
A: No, we will only coordinate the food and beverage service of your wedding including cake cutting/serving, dinner service, bar and beverage service, toasts, etc.
Q: How long is a shift?
A: A dinner shift for an event is generally 5 hours. For instance, our staff may work from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m or 6 p.m. to midnight. Lunch and breakfast shifts or Brunches may have different hours and rates. If our staff is needed longer than a normal shift we will arrange to charge an hourly rate after that.
Q: I only need a bartender for a couple of hours. How much do you charge per hour?
A: We charge by the shift only. The bartender will be glad to help you in other areas of set up, service and clean up to fulfill the shift you are paying for. 5 hour minimun service
Q: Do you provide servers on holidays?
A: Yes, we have provided servers on all holidays including Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Q: Should I Tip the servers at the end of the event?
A: Yes, you are welcome to tip, we have high service and experience standards for the staff. Tipping for private functions has become usual and customary.
Q: How far ahead should I call to hire servers?
A: Usually, a week or two ahead of time is fine. In some cases we have been able to provide servers on very short notice so feel free to call us at any time. Weekends and holidays are always a busy time, so as much notice as possible is appreciated.
Q: Do you staff Chefs?
A: Yes, with enough notice we can arrange a CIA trained chef for private functions. We also have several talented servers that have many years of culinary experience and will be able to help prepare foods if needed
Q: How will I know how many servers / bartenders to hire?
A: We will discuss your event and determine how much help you will need for a successful function. Every event is different and there are many factors that will determine how much and what type of service you will need.
A: This will depend on where your function is held. A la Carte will provide complete set up and break down if needed. Some venue locations may provide their own rentals and set up. In some cases you may decide to have the rental company provide set up and break down tables and chairs.