Top 5 Best Caterers in Barrie
Food is often a central part of any special event. However, once the size of your party exceeds just a few guests, you’ll probably need outside help to keep everyone’s stomach full and spirits high.
Picking the right caterer for the job can highly determine the success of your event. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of amazing catering companies in Ontario that can tackle any gathering, from small, intimate wedding receptions to sizable corporate banquets. We’ve compiled a list of the best caterers in Barrie to help you organize an impeccable event. Here’s what you need to know.
How Much Does Catering Cost in Barrie?
Catering costs vary greatly depending on the type of catering you choose, the menu, and the size of your event. The best way to learn how much you can expect to spend is to request a quote from some of the best caterers in Barrie. However, here are some common prices so you can do the math.
A platter can cost anywhere between $50-$210 depending on the food it includes. Simple veggie dips, fresh fruit, cheese and crackers, and pastries will be between $50-$80 for a 25-person platter, with each additional person raising the cost by between $2-$3.25. A sandwich platter will cost around $110, while gourmet platters range from $130-$210. Buffet menus will incur a price of between $22-$40 per person, while multi-course plated menus are usually around $42-$50. Hors d’oeuvres range from $26-$43 per dozen. Some caterers also offer kids’ menus for a lower price, as well as affordable breakfast menus from $9-$15.50 per person.
| Type of menu | Price |
|---|---|
| Platter (for 25 guests) | $50-210 |
| Hors d’oeuvres (per dozen) | $26-43 |
| Plated menu (per person) | $42-50 |
| Buffet menu (per person) | $22-40 |
Casal Catering
Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED
Family Reunions, High School, Cocktail Service, Weddings, Employee Recognition Events, Boxed Lunches, Social and Corporate Events, Formal Sit-Down Award Galas, Funerals, Client Appreciation Barbecues, Bar Services, Birthday Parties, Anniversaries, Engagement Proposals, Baptisms, Baby Showers & Funerals Catering.
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About Casal Catering
At Casal Catering in Barrie, they provide you with exceptional food and service for a reasonable price. They have a broad range of menus that can be customized to suit your venue, budget and palate. Their catering services include breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Whether you are planning a corporate affair, wedding or birthday party, their team can assist with all elements required to put your event together. Contact their office today to find out how Casal can make your next function hassle free.
The event staff at Casal Catering assist with decor setup, entertainment, food and beverage for your event. Their team will work with you to see what package best suits your requirements based on your venue selection. Whether you are planning a corporate affair, wedding or birthday party, their team helps with all elements required to put your event together. Casal Catering offers full-service wedding packages that include venue set up/clean up, sit-down or buffet-style meals, hors d’oeuvres, late-night options, cake cutting, and DJ services.
Pros
- Exceptional food and service
- Offers online ordering for your convenience
- Offers full service wedding packages and menus for any venue of your choice
- Variety of corporate solutions
- Free Online Book consultation
Cons
- Closed on Saturday and Sunday
Review Highlights
“We had Casual Catering feed our wedding guests recently at the Gibson Center and all I can say is I was BLOWN AWAY! From the very beginning they were amazing with answering emails and all the questions I had! I’ve had everyone tell me even weeks after the wedding how amazing all the food was! I would hands down recommend them to anyone that asks! And will definitely use them again in the future. Thank you so much for everything you did and making sure all of our belly was well fed!”
“Absolutely amazing service and incredible food at our big event in August 2021. Casal catering exceeded our already very high expectations! Impeccable customer service from the moment we contacted until the end of the event. Delivery was exactly on point. Every course was perfect. We highly recommend Casal Catering to anyone!”
“Jeff provided one of the best experiences ever at my mom’s celebration of life💗 the venue was beautiful- he was so accommodating and so helpful with everything we needed- any event you need please consider this venue!!”
“Highly recommend Casals catering for your wedding or event! They are very professional, accommodating, and listen to ensure you get everything you want. Jess was very flexible and helped me navigate through changes with having a COVID wedding. Jeffrey and the serving staff were professional and I didn’t even have to worry about things being done properly on the day of. All guests loved the food. Overall they are a great company to work with!”
Cravings Fine Food & Catering
Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED
Bridal and Baby Showers, Anniversaries, Christmas Party, Special Occasion Catering, Receptions, Funeral Service, Corporate Events, Cocktail Parties, Weddings, BBQ, Banquets, Grand Openings, Bar Mitzvahs, Birthday Celebrations, Business Meetings, Rehearsal Dinners, Holiday Open Houses & Dinner Parties
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About Cravings Fine Food & Catering
Cravings has been creating fine food for all palates and preferences alike since 2006. Paired with Craving’s promise of exceptional customer service and beautiful décor, make it an unparalleled combination. They are proud to be a full-service hospitality company, providing an unmatched food and service experience, anywhere you desire. They specialize in catering and event management with a personalized approach.
They use available and seasonal fresh, organic and local food from farms within Barrie and the area to cook their convenient, healthy, and delicious meals. They create customizable catering menus for 2 to 500 guests that range from formal gatherings, weddings or corporate lunches; to more informal events, like barbecues and family gatherings. They offer sumptuous meals that come with cooking instructions for an unforgettable, gourmet homemade meal. They cater to any and all dietary concerns and preferences when creating menus for every occasion, just let them know and they’re more than happy to accommodate.
Their chefs are also available to coordinate that perfect dish for your ideal event, utilizing local and premium products. Cravings Fine Food & Catering is proud to offer the most leisurely, delicious, and healthy fresh and frozen take-home meals. Whether lunch or dinner, choose from their prepared foods like signature sandwiches, side dishes, salads, frozen pasta, casseroles, pot pies, and soups.
Pros
- Full service hospitality company
- They specialize in catering and event management with a personalized approach
- Staff ensures flawless affair with decors vision with curated rental
- Excellent food and presentation
Cons
- Closed on Saturday and Sunday
Review Highlights
“Enjoyed a coffee and sandwich at cravings. Amazing quality and appropriate price. Very good coffee. The Cobb sandwich was amazing. Took some taro root chips home- delicious. Small café to sit and enjoy and large selection of take home items. Hidden gem in Barrie. Highly recommended.”
“I am out of town and worked with Ashley to deliver a care package of frozen meals to a loved one just outside of Barrie. Can not say enough wonderful words- from ordering, to timeliness and they even helped me include a message in the delivery. Amazing customer service.”
“Our family received a Thanksgiving meal for 6-8 people from cravings. It was amazing !! There was more than enough food for 6 people plus leftovers. My kids especially loved the roasted vegetables. The turkey was so moist and flavorful. The gravy was perfect. I can’t tell you how impressed I was with the quality of the food. I will be disappointed when the leftovers run out. Would highly recommend it to anyone looking for an elevated home cooked meal.”
“Cravings are incredible!! The food that comes out of this amazing place will leave you speechless, and wanting more! Today we ran an ice diving course down at Centennial Beach. Sean and Ashley brought down about 8-10 pizzas for the whole crew. They had creative names, which were the 3 digit airport designation codes, each of which represented a flavor explosion representative of that city. We couldn’t get enough. It’s rare that I’d say I’d have paid twice as much for restaurant food, but this would have been worth every penny. Sean and Ashley… congratulations on creating something really special. Looking forward to more!! You have to check these guys out and have them tour the next event!!”
Fresco Cafe & Catering
Monday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED
All Day Breakfast, Pubs, Lunch Menu, Grab And Go Items, Catering
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About Fresco Cafe & Catering
Canadians like never before. Be sure to join Fresco Café & Catering in Barrie to explore their yummy food. Try their mouthwatering salads and open your world to new experiences. Bring in the family or grab a few friends and feel free to check out their menu.
They pride themselves on using fresh local ingredients and premium locally roasted coffee. They strive to make sure each and every meal is memorable, which is why they are all prepared fresh to order. The café offers a quiet atmosphere where you can relax and enjoy your coffee or meal. Their location also offers plenty of seating for your next office gathering or lunch time meeting. They have free Wi-Fi and great music.
They use small batch premium roasted coffee beans. Not only is it delicious, but it is also roasted locally. Fresco Café offers its own unique custom blend. Their coffee is ground fresh daily, and all of their specialty coffees are made to order.
Pros
- Daily ground fresh coffee
- Offers own unique custom blend of coffee
- Fresh local ingredients and premium locally roasted coffee
- Offer quiet atmosphere
- Free Wi-Fi and great music
Cons
- Closed on Saturday and Sunday
Review Highlights
“We ordered Fresco Cafe catering for a themed dinner party. Delicious food, great prices and awesome service from Chef Charlie. We highly recommend Fresco Cafe and Catering and we look forward to our next catered event. Thank you!”
“We ordered the catered turkey dinners for Christmas Eve. Absolutely delicious and such generous servings. Wonderful food and wonderful service. Thank YOU!! This was my first time dealing with them and the owner was so congenial. Will certainly be back to the cafe for lunch.”
“Stopped in for a quick lunch and it was clean, fresh and made from scratch. Enjoyed the soup and it came with a homemade tea biscuit! Very lovely meal and friendly service! Check it out and skip Tims if you are looking for breakfast or lunch. Open till 3. Highly recommended.”
“We ordered Fresco Cafe catering for our event in Friday Harbor Resort. The quality of the food and the service were absolutely impeccable. I highly recommend Fresco Cafe catering, as we will use their services in the future. Well done!”
Wildwood Hospitality Services
Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 08:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED
Weddings, Social and Corporate events, Festival Caterings
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About Wildwood Hospitality Services
Wildwood Hospitality & Catering specializes in food & beverage service planning to suit all types of events from small social gatherings to massive music festivals. With over 30 years of foodservice excellence throughout Ontario, Wildwood continues to develop close relationships with its clients and the community they live in. They are equally as pleased to work with community associations and charities throughout Simcoe County to assist in their goals.
While their wedding department has flourished in the past decade, it would not have been possible without the key relationships they have in unique facilities throughout Barrie and the surrounding region, as well as amazing kitchen and service staff.
Belcroft Estates, South Shore Barrie, The Gibson Cultural Center, The Maclaren Art Center. These venues alone encompass more than 1500 wedding and corporate events catered by Wildwood in the past 20 years. Wildwood Hospitality’s Special Event catering team has the equipment, knowledge and experience to provide festival crew and backstage catering to thousands anywhere in Ontario.
Pros
- 30 years of food service excellence
- They offer personalized and complete hospitality & catering services
- Provides Fresh food menus
- Crew calls demand highly nutritional and quality food
Cons
- Busy Customer Service
Review Highlights
“We had wildwood cater our wedding at Belcroft Estate. From the very start communication was quick and easy with John. We had an amazing tasting and were able to easily decide what to have. The service and quality of the food at the wedding was excellent. We could not recommend them enough!”
“Wildwood was the absolute best choice for our wedding! The service was amazing, the guests were blown away by how good the food was and the organizers, Kristen and John, were so organized and easy to work with. I would 100% recommend Wildwood to anyone looking for an amazing caterer for their event! I hope I get to attend an event that they cater to in the future – delish!”
“I had my wedding at Belcroft Estates where Wildwood Hospitality does the catering for the barn venue. I couldn’t be more happy with the quality of food and also the amazing service we had! I had multiple wedding guests comment on how good the food was! The staff were great as well! Kristen was my go to person for the planning process and she was always quick to respond to my emails. The onsite serving staff were friendly and great! Thank you Wildwood for everything!”
“Wildwood catered our wedding on Feb 27, 2016. John and Kristen were out of this world! From start to finish! The planning process was smooth and the day of the event they totally delivered. Everyone was raving about how delicious our food was! We are so thrilled to have them cater our event! Thank you again for absolutely everything!”
Springwater Catering
Monday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Thursday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Friday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Saturday: CLOSED
Sunday: CLOSED
Corporate Meetings & Office Lunches, Open Houses & Cocktail Parties, Sports Banquets, Birthday, Anniversary and Christening Parties, Jack & Jill’s and Stags
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About Springwater Catering
Springwater Catering is a full service catering and special events company. They have been offering their unique talents to the Barrie, Midhurst and Springwater areas since 2009, after serving the GTA since 1995. Choose from their standard menu or ask them to design one that will meet your specific dietary needs.
Springwater Catering’s Owner and Chef Gus has 35 years experience in the food service industry. He has owned and operated 4 successful restaurants in Mississauga and Toronto. Deborah is Springwater Catering’s Special Events Coordinator. She has over 30 years of experience in high-profile event planning and restaurant operations.
Deborah’s most memorable event was, as Director of Communications for the Canada China Business Council, the lead private-sector organizer of Prime Minister Chretien’s Inaugural Team Canada Trade Mission to China in 1994. Springwater Catering offers innovative and contemporary cuisine based on European tradition. They hand pick their meat and produce personally, sourcing locally, whenever possible. They take pride in guaranteeing that only the freshest ingredients will be found in our kitchen before they grace your table.
Pros
- 35 years of experience in the food industry
- Full service catering and special events
- Offers their unique talents
- You can choose and ask them to design to meet your specific dietary needs
Cons
- Closed on Saturday and Sunday
Review Highlights
“Great service, great food, and beautiful set up. We hired them for our daughter’s wedding for a light lunch. We had so much food that no one left hungry. They were on time and every professional. Would recommend them to anyone.”
“Hands down, best meals ever! Fast, friendly service. Home cooked meals and specials better than I’ve ever had at home (mac and cheese, poutine, chicken caesars, soups, too many to name! Great prices and staff that make you feel like you’re in their kitchen! Looking for catering? It was so delicious! Highest of recommendations and a place everyone should try! (Bbq Thursdays with the amazing salads in the summer are totally worth the trip to Midhurst!) Can’t say enough about the positives of dining at Simcoe County Catering!”
“They are a wonderful group of people that made my wedding night so nice. Very helpful good food”
“absolutely amazing service! Everything was SUPER FRESH & Delicious and I hope Dave soon opens another restaurant closer to me.”
FAQs
Depending on the size and nature of your event, you can choose between various types of catering. You can have something as simple as platters and hors d’oeuvres, or lavish buffets and multiple-course plated meals. Each of these options includes several highly customizable menu options. Caterers also offer options for guests with special dietary restrictions and food allergies.
Caterers will calculate the amount of food your event will need based on your number of guests. Therefore, having a precise head count when making a reservation usually helps. As for platters and similar options, you’ll likely find the number of guests it feeds on the caterer’s website. Nevertheless, as a rule of thumb, remember that a platter is typically for 20 guests.
Whether you’ll need to prepare anything yourself depends on the catering services in question. Many businesses offer full-service catering that includes much more than just the food itself. You can request table cloths, napkins, china and glassware, cutlery, and all other utensils you might need. Some businesses even provide decorations, tables, seating, and wait staff to serve the food, as well as clean up after the event. If you don’t need any of these extras, you can also order just the food and have it delivered to the site or pick it up yourself.
Catering isn’t only for weddings and corporate lunches. Most caterers can adjust their services to fit virtually any event for which you might need high-quality catering. From birthday, Christmas, and engagement parties through anniversaries, reunions, and funeral services to baby showers and baptisms, you can order catering for any social or corporate gathering.
Catering for Any Occasion
Professional catering can elevate any event, big or small. Considering the vast selection Barrie caterers offer, you can find a suitable solution for any type of event, whether your need to feed a crowd of hundreds or just a modest gathering.
Conclusion
Catering is by no means a small expense, so finding the right company for the job is paramount. While searching for the best caterers in Barrie, you’ll need to consider much more than just the food itself. Whether a fully seated plated menu or more casual platters will work better depends on the nature of your event.
When it comes to weddings and similar events, finding a full-service caterer who will take care of everything related to dining, from the tables and tableware to the decoration, can truly simplify the event’s organization. Hopefully, the list above will help you find the best caterer for your event.
