Frequently asked questions
Do you have gluten free options?
Yes! All of our paella and skewer options are gluten free.
Do you cater for vegetarians?
Absolutely! Our Mixed Mushroom Paella is our popular vegan/vegetarian option. It’s great for everyone.
What are your set up options?
All of our set up options provide an entertaining display cooking experience. Depending on availability, the event space and your preferred option, we will cater from our mobile trailer or Paella Station set up. Our Paella Station can be set up under our Samba Catering gazebo or if you have an undercover deck or patio, we can set up without the gazebo.
How do you serve to guests?
We serve paella directly from the Paella Station so your guests can enjoy individual service from our friendly chef and service staff. Having catered hundreds of events, we’ve found that guests love the opportunity to chat to our team and make their own choice about their meal. Plus, this style of food service encourages guests to mingle and mix with others. Our BBQ skewers are served around the floor from platters with a serviette. If you think you’ll require additional service, please let us know when you get in touch.
What is the paella served in?
Our paella is served in food safe, compostable bowls made from sustainably sourced renewable materials with a biodegradable fork and serviette.
How do we select the number of portions?
We’ve been catering events big and small across South East Queensland and Northern New South Wales for five years, so we’re well versed in helping you select appropriate portions for your event. It’s important that you share as much detail as possible about your event at the time of requesting a quote, as there are a few factors that will impact how many portions you require, including the style, length and start and finish times of your event. For example, starters are a good option for earlier event starts and if you’re having a long event, you might consider the option for guests to return for additional portions.
When do you arrive onsite?
We arrive two hours prior to service unless earlier set up is arranged prior to the day.
How far do you travel for catering?
We are Gold Coast based but we regularly travel between Brisbane and Byron Bay and have catered events on the Sunshine Coast too. Travel costs apply for events outside the Gold Coast.
How do we book with you?
We require acceptance of the quote in writing and a $350 non-refundable booking fee to secure your catering booking. Final guest numbers are due a minimum of 14 days in advance of your event. Once final numbers are received, the final invoice will be raised and payment is to be received in full no later than 10 days prior to your event. Please note, your booking is not secure until the booking fee is received.
Do you charge extra for wedding catering?
We promise you will never be charged a premium for wedding catering when you book with us. For us every event that we cater is special, so we approach every function with the same level of care and attention to detail. Additional charges may apply if a particularly early bump in is required.
Do you need me to provide anything?
We bring everything we need with us on site. Access to water and a power point for lighting is ideal, but we can certainly work around these.
How much space do you need for catering?
We have a variety of set up options to suit different event spaces. Be sure to share as much information about your event space as possible when you get in touch for a quote and, together, we’ll determine the best set up for your event.