Hiring a Caterer in Lebanon: From Small Events to Weddings

Catering in Lebanon ranges from a tray of manakish for a birthday morning to multi-station spreads for 500-person weddings. The contract structures are similar regardless of scale — get the per-head price, the inclusions, and the contingency rules in writing.

Common catering formats

• Drop-off: trays delivered, you serve and clean. Cheapest. Common for office events.
• Buffet / stations: staffed buffet or live cooking stations (manakish, shawarma, sushi, etc.). Most weddings and corporate events use this.
• Plated seated meal: three or four courses served by waiters. Higher per-head; better for upscale events.
• Cocktail / passed canapés: standing event, waiters circulating with bites. Common for openings and receptions.

Per-head pricing tiers (fresh USD)

Drop-off trays: USD 8–25 per person depending on menu. Mid-range buffet: USD 30–60 per person. Plated wedding meal at established venues: USD 70–150 per person. Premium chefs and special menus push higher.

What should be in the contract

• Final headcount confirmation deadline (typically 7 days out) and overage policy.
• Staff-to-guest ratios (e.g., 1 waiter per 15 guests for buffet, 1 per 10 for plated).
• Inclusions: tables, linens, glassware, china, plating, garbage removal.
• Allergens and dietary alternatives policy.
• Cake-cutting fee waiver (if you're bringing a cake from elsewhere).
• Force-majeure and weather contingency clauses for outdoor events.

Tasting before you book

Always do a tasting for events over 100 people. Reputable caterers will offer it complimentary or credit it against your booking. Bring your venue's coordinator if possible — they often catch logistical issues you wouldn't.