How to Get More Catering Orders from Local Offices

Know Your Neighbors

Start by identifying the businesses around you. Create a list of local offices within a five-mile radius of your restaurant. Begin by visiting these offices in person. When you visit, introduce yourself and your restaurant. Bring along a menu and, if possible, a small sample of your food. A personal touch can make a significant difference in building business relationships.

Example Script:

"Hello, my name is [Your Name], and I own [Restaurant Name] just down the street. We specialize in catering delicious meals for office events and meetings. I brought a menu and some samples of our popular dishes for you to try. We’d love to help with any of your upcoming catering needs."

Create an Attractive Catering Menu

Office catering should be straightforward yet diverse. Consider creating a menu that includes a variety of options to cater to different dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. For a 60-seat restaurant, a sample menu could include:

• Sandwich Platter: A selection of turkey, ham, and vegetarian sandwiches.
• Salad Bowl: Mixed greens with a choice of dressings.
• Hot Dish: Pasta with marinara sauce and grilled chicken.

Package these options for easy ordering. For example, offer a "Lunch for Ten" package that includes sandwiches, a salad bowl, and a hot dish for $120. Ensure your menu is clear, concise, and visually appealing.

Be Competitive with Pricing

Many offices operate within strict budgets for catering. While setting your prices, ensure they are competitive but also highlight the value you provide. For instance, "Lunch for 10 for $120" is both appealing and easy to understand. Consider offering a 10% discount for first-time orders or a referral program where existing clients receive a discount for referring new clients.

Make Ordering Easy

Simplify the ordering process as much as possible. Provide a clear contact number and email specifically for catering orders. If you have a website, ensure it includes a user-friendly catering calculator. This tool helps clients quickly estimate costs and view available options. If you do not have this feature, consider implementing it to streamline the ordering process.

Example Script for Phone Orders:

"Thank you for calling [Restaurant Name]. How can we assist with your catering needs today? We offer a variety of packages that are perfect for office events."

Offer Flexible Delivery Options

Flexibility in delivery times can be a major selling point. Offices appreciate when their catering arrives on time, especially for lunch meetings. If they require lunch by noon, aim to deliver by 11:45 AM. Consistently meeting these expectations can build trust and encourage repeat business.

Promote Through Local Channels

Leverage local social media groups, business networks, and community boards to promote your catering services. Post photos of your food, share customer testimonials, and advertise special offers. Encourage satisfied clients to leave positive reviews online, which can attract more business.

Follow Up with Clients

After fulfilling a catering order, follow up with a thank you note or email. Ask for feedback and express your gratitude for their business. This approach shows that you value their patronage and helps build a lasting relationship.

Example Follow-Up Email:

"Dear [Client's Name],

Thank you for choosing [Restaurant Name] for your recent event. We hope our catering met your expectations. We would love to hear your feedback. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to improve your experience. We look forward to serving you again soon.

Best regards, [Your Name]"

Use Technology to Your Advantage

Consider using tools like RestaurantPilot to efficiently manage calls and texts. An AI host can handle inquiries and reservations, allowing you to focus on the food and service. Additionally, it can send Google review requests, helping you establish a strong online presence. This can be particularly beneficial in attracting new clients and maintaining a good reputation.

For more information on these features, explore here.