Six Essential Questions to Ask When Booking a Private Event to Ensure a Seamless Culinary Experience

Great private events start with great food.

When planning a private event—whether it’s a corporate gathering, milestone celebration, or client appreciation dinner—the menu is one of the most important details to get right. Food isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that sets the tone for your gathering and leaves your guests with a lasting impression.

Before booking a venue, asking the right questions about food service and menu options can help ensure a seamless, memorable experience. Here are six key questions to consider:

1. Is the catering in-house, or must I work with an outside vendor?

Some venues require outside catering, which means coordinating additional vendors, logistics, and approvals. A venue with an in-house culinary team, like Novelty Hill-Januik, ensures a cohesive, expertly paired menu without the extra legwork.

Why this matters: In-house catering means seamless service, better food and wine pairings, and fewer moving parts for you to manage.

2. Is the menu customizable?

No two events are the same, so flexibility in menu planning is key. Ask if the venue offers:

·      Seasonal, chef-driven menus

·      Options for plated meals, buffets, or passed appetizers

·      Customization menus based on dietary needs 

At Novelty Hill-Januik, our menus are inspired by the fresh, locally sourced ingredients of the Pacific Northwest, ensuring every dish complements our wines beautifully. We work with our private event clients to design a menu that meets the needs of their group.

3. Can the venue accommodate dietary restrictions?

Today’s guests often have various dietary needs—vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and more. Before booking, ensure the culinary team can provide delicious alternatives without sacrificing quality or presentation.

At Novelty Hill-Januik, we specialize in crafting thoughtful, inclusive menus that cater to all guests while maintaining the integrity of the overall dining experience.

4. How does the venue price its wines for private events?

Wine pricing can vary widely, with many venues applying markups that significantly increase the cost of wine. Before booking, ask how the venue structures wine pricing for private events:

·      Is event wine priced differently than standard restaurant pricing?

·      Are there curated pairings available at a set price per guest?

·      Can you select wines in advance to better manage costs?

At Novelty Hill-Januik, private event groups enjoy retail pricing with no additional markup. This allows for thoughtful pairings to create a seamless dining experience without unexpected costs.

5. What is the kitchen-to-table timeline?

The flow of an event depends on precise timing between courses. Ask how the venue ensures that meals are plated and served efficiently, keeping the energy of your event just right.

·      Does the kitchen operate onsite, or is food transported from another location?

·      How does the venue efficiently serve large groups?

A well-run kitchen and service team ensures that guests receive their meals at peak freshness, with the right pacing for the event.

6. What is the signature dish or must-try item?

Every great culinary program has signature dishes that showcase its strengths. Ask about a chef’s favorite recipe or a dish that best represents the venue. It can give you insight into the type of culinary experience your guests will have.

Final Thoughts: A Great Event Starts with Great Food

Choosing a venue isn’t just about the space—it’s about the culinary experience that brings people together. Asking the right questions before booking your event ensures that guests leave with an unforgettable dining experience.

Looking for a venue where thoughtful cuisine, exceptional wine, and seamless hospitality come together effortlessly? We’d love to share more about our culinary program at Novelty Hill-Januik. Complete a short form to request more information, and our events team will follow up with you soon.