Question 1

What catering trends are popular in Israel for 2026?

Accepted Answer

Interactive food stations (sushi rolling, pasta bars), plant-based menus, Middle Eastern fusion with Asian influences, artisanal cocktail bars, and zero-waste catering with locally sourced ingredients are top trends.

Question 2

Should I do a food tasting before booking a caterer?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. A tasting lets you evaluate food quality, presentation, portion sizes, and service style. Most reputable caterers offer a complimentary tasting for confirmed bookings or a paid tasting that’s credited to the final bill.

Question 3

What red flags should I watch for with caterers?

Accepted Answer

No tasting offered, vague pricing, unlicensed kitchen, no liability insurance, poor hygiene during visits, reluctance to share references, and last-minute menu changes without consultation.

Question 4

Do caterers provide table settings and serving equipment?

Accepted Answer

Many full-service caterers include china, glassware, linens, and cutlery. Others provide disposable premium options. Clarify exactly what’s included versus what requires separate rental.

Question 5

How can I reduce catering costs without sacrificing quality?

Accepted Answer

Choose a buffet over plated service, limit the cocktail hour, opt for seasonal ingredients, reduce the number of courses, negotiate a lower open-bar tier, and confirm your guest count accurately to avoid paying for no-shows.