Frequently Asked Questions
Download Our FAQ
What is the best way to contact you with questions or to place an order?
The best way to reach us is via email. To place an order or get on our calendar we must receive your request in writing (via email). We are not able to schedule anything over the phone. We are available by phone Monday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. We are frequently on the phone, so please make use of the voice mail.
When you are ready to place your order, type or write out your order, and send it to us via e-mail (info@anns-catering.com). Please let us know what time you would like to pick up the platters (from 7:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.), or what half-hour window you would like for delivery so that we can check for availability. If we have any questions, we will let you know and ultimately send you a formal order confirmation. (Important: We are very responsive with our e-mails and if you do not hear from us within 24 hours, please call or reach out to us again. If you do not receive an emailed confirmation, your order has not been placed.)
How much notice do I need to give for a catering order?
We usually require at least 7 days notice for orders. During particularly busy seasons, more notice may be required. Please keep in mind that we sometimes book up for a particular day and must stop accepting orders. We always recommend placing your order as soon as you decide to use us to cater your event, we do book on a first come first serve basis. If you do not have your order ready you can always email us with the delivery address, approximate number of guests and the preferred 30-minute delivery window so we can get you on our calendar. We will get right back to you via email to let you know our availability.
What is your delivery policy?
We schedule half-hour delivery windows, so let us know what your ideal window would be (11:00 to 11:30am or 3:30 to 4:00pm etc.) We may arrive at any point during your scheduled 30- minute delivery window. Our earliest delivery window is 7:30 to 8:00 a.m., and our latest is 4:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Ideally the end of your delivery window should be at least 15 minutes before your guests arrive, so you have time to set up your buffet. When we deliver, we simply drop off the platters of ready to eat, room temperature/slightly chilled food. All you will need to do is arrange the platters, pop the lids and pour the sauces!
What is the charge for delivery?
| Location | Minimum Order
For Delivery | Delivery
Charge |
| Alameda | $600 | $50 |
| Albany | $300 | $35 |
| Berkeley | $250 | $25 |
| El Cerrito | $300 | $35 |
| Emeryville | $250 | $25 |
| Kensington | $600 | $50 |
| Lafayette | $600 | $50 |
| Moraga | $600 | $50 |
| Oakland | $250 | $25 |
| Orinda | $300 | $35 |
| Piedmont | $250 | $25 |
We're sorry, but if you don't see a city listed here, delivery is not available. Event locations at a park or picnic site may incur additional delivery charges - please contact our catering office for more details.
If an order is so large it requires two people and/or two delivery vehicles, or if there are access challenges (stairs, difficult parking, etc.), additional charges may apply.
What can I expect when I order from Ann's Catering?
All of our food is prepared to order and is intended to be served at room temperature or slightly chilled. Our philosophy of fresh, healthy food is antithetical to heat-maintained foods. We are somewhat unique in that you can simply order "party platters" for pick-up or delivery. Our prices are published, and are the same for everyone. There are no hidden costs, though some of our prices vary with seasonal availability. In all cases, we will make sure you understand clearly what you are getting, and what it costs. Whether you are trying to figure out how much food to order for an open house, birthday party, or wedding reception, we will be attentive to your needs. Please let us know what you are looking for, and we will do our best to provide helpful information.
How are the items on your menu packaged, presented, served, etc.?
All of our food is served on or in sturdy white plastic catering trays or black bowls, with pop-off dome lids. They are fully garnished and ready to serve. All you must do is pop off the lid. These platters are disposable and are yours to keep. If you would like to return them to us, we can sanitize the platters (but not the domes) for reuse. Due to space, time, and handling constraints we are unable to use your platters.
Can I change my order once it has been placed?
We are usually able to accommodate changes made at least four days before your event. Let us know when submitting your order if you anticipate making any adjustments. Please note that we consider all orders final four days before the scheduled event date and are not able to make any changes after this time.
What is your cancellation policy?
Please let us know as soon as possible if you need to cancel your order. Orders that are canceled less than four full days before the scheduled event date will be charged 100% of the total invoice. This charge is to cover foods that cannot be used, labor, and jobs we may have declined in order to accommodate your event.
How do I pay for my order (private customers)?
You are welcome to pay with cash, credit card (we accept all major credit cards) and checks. Payment is due four days before the pick-up or delivery date. We must have payments with cash or check in hand at least 4 days prior to the event date. We will charge your card 2-3 days before your event date. If we do not receive full payment two days before the pick-up or delivery time, or are unable to process your credit card for payment, your order will not be fulfilled.
How do I pay for my order (corporate / institutional customers)?
Established corporate / institutional customers will receive an invoice for the order. Payment is due 1 month from the event date.
What are single-service items and how do I get them?
These items include biodegradable paper plates and eating utensils, paper napkins and plastic serving utensils. They are available upon request at a cost of $2.50 per guest. We can also provide just the serving utensils for $2.50 per food item.
Do you do tastings?
Yes, with adequate advance notice we can arrange for you to taste items before you decide to order. In general, we need a week's notice to schedule a tasting. Because we make everything to order, we cannot provide drop-in tasting. Tastings are TO GO only and generally are available for pickup around 3 pm, please+ email us to schedule a tasting.
We offer the tastings TO-GO only. We charge $20 per item (enough for two to taste), maximum of five items. There are a few items on our menu that cannot be made for tastings - we'll let you know if you've chosen any of these items. If you decide to place an order with us, we will deduct 50% of the tasting charges from your balance due.
Can't I just eat at the restaurant to find out what your food is like?
No, our catering kitchen and cooking staff are separate from the restaurant kitchen and cooking staff, and our menu offerings are quite different. What we do have in common is Ann, of course! We hope you'll love the restaurant food and have a great dining experience, but you will not have sampled the catering food.
Is a gratuity automatically added to my order?
We do not automatically add gratuities to catering orders. We are often asked if tipping is customary, to which we respond that some customers do and others don't. The matter is up to you. Gratuities are shared among all who helped prepare and execute your order and are greatly appreciated!
Please contact catering at 510.649.0869 or info@anns-catering.com.
