Ask Chef

Chef – should I cut my own bangs?

Well…you probably could and it would save you some money…but there are just some services best left to the professionals, especially on the day of an important celebration and most certainly when food production is involved. Remember, unless you are 100% certain that you can complete a special occasion event task on your own…put the scissors down, pick up the phone and call an expert!

What if I have guests with allergies?

Be sure to let your caterer know in advance so appropriate meals can be prepared for those guests.

How much money should I spend on food for my event?

Spend what you are able to be comfortable with, but don’t sacrifice quality by being unrealistic. We all know that the cost of a meal at a casual dining restaurant is $16-$28, so let that be your starting reference point. Next, think about the value of having the meal prepared exactly as you want it and delivered directly to you. When you are ordering a meal from a caterer you can also enjoy the convenience of having additional necessities delivered to you such as dining ware, ice and table linens so that you don’t have to spend time gathering these items. A caterer can also be your one-stop-shop for service staff and bartenders, too!

Should I order disposable plates or China plates?

My food is something you can be 100% proud of! It can be served on whatever type of plate you prefer. Your guests won’t remember the style of plate, but they will remember the delicious food.

Did you cater your own wedding?

You better believe it! Kim and I had a casual summertime wedding, so we planned a “station-style” menu that featured our favorite homemade breads, salads and chilled entrées…and of course, there were lots of desserts! Give Kim a call and ask for a copy of the menu.

Which side dishes and entrées should I choose?

Choose whatever you personally enjoy, but take your guests’ preferences into consideration as well. I will prepare your selections with seasonings and techniques that make the flavors and textures of the meal harmonious. I will also help to steer you in the right direction if you get way off track…so don’t stress.

Do you offer VEGAN or GLUTEN-FREE options?

Yes! Be sure to contact us for those menus specifically…and, don’t forget to ask about our amazing vegan and gluten-free desserts!

Can Stone Soup provide bartenders, service staff, tablecloths and such?

Yes! We can provide professional staff and equipment if you would like us to.

Where should I have my event?

You could have your gathering at your home or at a friend or family member’s residence or you could choose a casual location like a park pavilion, recreation center or church hall. Of course, some corporate and social gatherings function best at a more “formal” location. Montgomery County Maryland has plenty of these wonderful venues (some are historic, some are modern and some are rustic) and we have enjoyed working at them for over 19 years! Great locations to consider are Glenview Mansion in Rockville, Brookside Gardens in Wheaton, The Lodge at Little Seneca (also known as Seneca Lodge) in Boyds near Germantown, BlackRock Center for the Arts in Germantown, Rockwood Manor in Potomac, Kentlands Mansion in Gaithersburg and Rock Creek Mansion in Bethesda. You’ll find tons of photos of these venues on our Facebook page – they are all very special to us.

What is your specialty?

That is not an easy question to answer – ask me something else. Just kidding. As a caterer, my “specialty” is whatever your event needs it to be. I can cook any style of food and you’ll say it’s the best you’ve ever had. Classic Buffet Favorites, BBQ, Baked Goods, Breakfast Foods, Hors d’Oeuvres, Comfort Foods, Global-Flair Cuisine, Desserts, you name it – at Stone Soup Catering, we want you to be proud of the food that you present to your guests.