How to Choose the Best Film Catering Company in Cape Town

How to Choose the Right Film Catering Company for Your Production

Film production is a high-stakes environment where every detail matters. From lighting to wardrobe, the efficiency of a production relies on synchronisation, and catering is no exception. Hungry, tired crew members don’t work well. That’s why choosing the right film catering company is one of the most important logistical decisions you’ll make.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to evaluate film catering services, what red flags to avoid, and what questions to ask to ensure your team is well-fed and energised.

Why Film Catering Is Different from Traditional Catering

Catering for film sets is a unique beast. It’s not just about preparing delicious food, it’s about being mobile, punctual, adaptable, and invisible when needed.

Key Differences:

Logistics: On-location demands, power access, and serving times.
Nutrition: Meals must fuel long hours and varied physical demands.
Timing: Crews follow tight call sheets. Food must be ready precisely when needed.
Scale: From indie shoots to large-scale productions, the capacity to scale up or down is vital.

Pro Tip: Look for companies that specialize in film or TV production catering, not just event catering

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Film Catering Company

1. Experience in Film Production Catering

Not all catering companies understand the rigours of a set. Ask for:

Portfolio of past productions
References from producers or line managers
Experience with similar production sizes

2. Menu Flexibility & Dietary Accommodations

A good company should offer:

Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive meals
Customizable menus per shoot day
Pre-packaged or buffet-style options

3. Logistics and Mobility

Check their ability to:

Deliver food on location
Set up quickly and cleanly
Operate within tight breaks and wrap-up windows

4. Reputation and Reviews

Use:

Google Reviews
Film community forums
Production Facebook groups

Red flags:

Consistent complaints about timing or food quality
Lack of social proof or testimonials

5. Health and Safety Compliance

Your catering partner should be:

Certified by local food health authorities
Familiar with COVID-era safety protocols
Equipped with insurance and liability coverage

Ready to Book Your Film Catering ?

Contact Off The Blok Catering today and discover how we can fuel your next production.