Q: What do I need to do to book an event?
A:
The following information is needed to schedule your event: date, serving time, location, Menu and estimated number of guests. For non-commercial customers, a 50% deposit will be required to book your event. We will confirm the specifics of your event (guest count, serving time, menu, etc.) one week before the date of the event. You can call or email us any time to review and update of your event details.
Q: Does Hill’s allow any menu substitutions?
A:
Certainly. We are very flexible and will be happy to customize your menu. If you don’t see a menu item you desire, please let us know. Chances are we can prepare it for you.
Q: When does Hill’s need a final guest count and final payment?
A:
We will call you one week prior to the event to confirm details. A final guest count is needed at that time, but changes can be made later if necessary. Final payment is due on or prior to the event. Commercial customers can be billed with terms being Net 30 days.
Q: What does Hill’s bring to the event?
A:
We will bring a truck with a trailer-mounted cooker along with everything necessary to prepare and serve the food. We will provide serving utensils, disposable plates, disposable cutlery, cups, ice and basic condiments. We ask that you provide serving tables for the buffet.
Q: How much space does Hill’s need?
A:
For a typical event, we need an area about the size of 3 parking spaces (approx. 10’x 30’). At larger events, we may need more space to set up multiple cookers and serving areas.
Q: As the Host, what do I need to provide?
A:
The Host should provide tables and chairs, and a tent if necessary, for your guests to sit and eat, and trash cans for handling disposables. Also, any arrangements for alcoholic beverages will have to be made separately.
Q: When will Hill’s staff arrive at my event?
A:
When cooking on site, we will arrive 3 to 3 ½ hours before serving time. This can vary depending on the menu and necessary cooking time. On larger events (500 or more), it may be necessary for us to arrive earlier. If we are delivering instead of cooking on site, we will arrive 15-30 minutes before your scheduled serving time. Please let us know if there are any unusual or special circumstances that might require extra time, i.e., parking, stairs, etc.
Q: How long will Hill’s be on site at my event?
A:
We will be at your site for approximately 4 hours: 3 hours before serving, 30 minutes for serving, and for loading and cleaning our cooking area.
Q: Will Hill’s need access to water and electric?
A:
Yes. A standard household 110 volt electrical outlet is sufficient. Access to water is helpful, but not necessary. Please let us know if power or water is not available and we will bring it with us.
Q: What happens with any leftover food?
A:
All cooked and prepared food will be left with the Host. Occasionally, with permission from the Host, we will take food and donate.
Q: Who is responsible for the trash?
A:
You are. You should have trash cans available for your guests to use. Hill’s staff will not remove trash from the event unless prior arrangements have been made.
Q: What if it rains?
If it is going to rain during your event, we will work to create an alternate plan to provide your food while maintaining quality and safety.
Q: Does the State of Florida collect sales tax on catered events?
A:
Yes. Florida sales tax will be added to the final invoice. If you are a tax exempt organization, we ask that you submit a copy of your tax exemption certificate prior to making your payment.
Q: Is gratuity expected or required?
A:
Our goal is to exceed your expectations and provide you and your guests with an exceptional meal. The best thanks you can give us is word of mouth advertising. The financial gratuity is left to your discretion and we hope you will recognize the hard work of the Hill’s staff accordingly. We value your feedback.
Q: How much notice is necessary to reserve a date?
A:
Most events are planned approximately one or two months in advance, which is best to guarantee your date; however, please do not hesitate to call us on short notice. We will do our best to accommodate your group.
Q: What if my event is out of town? How far will Hill’s travel?
A:
No problem. We are located in Gainesville, FL, but we service all of Florida. A large number of our customers are out of town.