BBQ and grill catering in Rome

How to choose a BBQ caterer in Rome

A barbecue caterer cooks on site, in front of the guests: it is an informal party, suited to gardens, villas, farm stays and corporate team building. First ask what kind of grill they use: wood or charcoal embers, gas, or smokers for American-style barbecue, with long cooking of ribs and large cuts. Flavour, timings and the space needed all change.

Choose according to the menu: an Italian mixed grill, the abbacchio (milk-fed lamb) and sausages of the Lazio tradition, cuts of beef, grilled fish, or vegetables for those who don't eat meat. Ask how they guarantee a vegetarian alternative cooked on a separate grill.

How much does BBQ catering cost in Rome

The price per person depends mainly on the meat (prime and dry-aged cuts cost much more than a classic grill), the quantities, the side dishes, the drinks and the staff. Transporting the grills and the set-up time also count: slow cooking can need hours of work before the guests arrive. Ask for grams of meat per person and what is included. Read the guide how much catering costs in Rome.

Fire, smoke and safety

A charcoal grill produces smoke and heat: you need an outdoor space, away from awnings, dry hedges and neighbours' windows. In summer, during periods of fire risk, there may be bans on lighting fires outdoors in green areas: check with the venue or the city council. In an apartment building or on a terrace, check the building rules before booking. Ask the caterer whether it brings a fire extinguisher and how it disposes of the embers at the end of the evening.

Consider the weather too: an outdoor grill in the rain is hard to rescue. Ask the caterer whether it has a gazebo to cover the grills and a covered space for guests, or whether the date can be moved. In summer, plan shade and plenty of water, because the temperature near the grills rises very quickly and the Roman heat does the rest.

What to ask before you sign

Have the type of grill, menu, grams per person, side dishes and duration put in writing. Ask how much space they need, whether power or water is required, who brings tables and tableware and who cleans up after the event. For an even more informal party, see food trucks. Then request up to 3 quotes.