The Art & Essence of the Professional Tasting

Catering Connection Private Tasting Room | Photo by Matt Roberts of Rewind Photography

Many wedding clients feel that a mass-produced meal event could not have the quality and caliber of an intimate more private dinner for two at one of the area’s leading restaurants. Santa Barbara has several leading full-service caterers that prove otherwise and one of them – who just celebrated 20 years in business as one of the area’s finest- Catering Connection– confirmed just that. Using only the freshest produce and ingredients, Catering Connection clients are always amazed how fish, chicken and beef can be done to perfection by the time the main event dinner is served – whether it be a plated affair or lavish buffet. The secret is years of experience in culinary excellence as well as impeccable timing.

Hosting a tasting for clients is more than just an opportunity to have them sample delicious food and show off a caterer’s talents. If done correctly, it is an expression of art and should give a client an idea for the type of service they should expect to receive during their planning stages as well as “day-of” the event.

From the newly-renovated elegant private tasting room at Catering Connection‘s culinary studios downtown

Santa Barbara to the gracious hospitality and warm welcome with sparkling and still water bar, wine offerings, customized printed menu and placesettings, Catering Connection‘s Philippe Berger presented each delicious course with grace, style and expertise, explaining a bit about each menu item and then elaborating on ways it could be altered or what could be added to the menu to enhance it. He took time to further explain the proposal he had done for my clients and answer questions about what the next steps would be, including coordinating all rentals, but assuring them they had a say in design.

Catering Connection has obviously mastered the art and essence of the “tasting”. A good way to decide on your caterer should include the tasting experience. If they are offering you an incredible experience when you are simply sampling their food and service, it probably means they will be out of this world on your actual wedding / special event day.