What is tableware in catering?

Tableware and equipment (menaje in Spanish) means everything used to serve and consume food and drink at an event: plates, cutlery, glasses, table linen, trays and serving utensils. In catering it can be reusable (crockery and glassware) or disposable, and it can be included in the quote or charged separately.

What tableware usually includes

• Crockery and cutlery: plates, bread plates, forks, knives and spoons, depending on the format.
• Glassware: water, wine and cocktail glasses, tumblers and coffee cups.
• Table linen and napkins: tablecloths, overlays and napkins, in cloth or paper.
• Serving utensils: trays, platters, tongs and containers for the buffet or the stations.

Furniture (high tables, side tables, chairs) is usually treated as a separate item, although some caterers group it with the tableware.

Why it affects the quote

A seated menu needs more pieces per guest than a welcome cocktail, and glass and china tableware costs more than disposable. Our price guide counts it among the items added to the price per person, along with staff. What goes into each quote varies from caterer to caterer, so it pays to ask in writing.

What to ask when requesting a quote

• Whether the tableware is owned, hired or disposable.
• Whether collection and washing are included, or only delivery.
• How many pieces are planned per guest and whether there is an allowance for breakages.

For setting up and clearing away, see also setup and breakdown and the role of front-of-house service.

How we can help

If you are preparing an event in Madrid, tell us the format, number of guests and venue and let us know if you need tableware. There is more on our event catering in Madrid page.

Related service: Event catering

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