Catering in Palestrina and the Monti Prenestini

Organising an event in and around Palestrina

The area east of Rome includes Palestrina, Zagarolo, San Cesareo, Labico, Colleferro and Valmontone. San Cesareo and Zagarolo are close to the city; Colleferro and Valmontone are further away but well connected by the motorway. For many guests it is a convenient area, including for those coming from southern Lazio.

Here you will find country farmhouses, estates with gardens, villas with parkland, hilltop villages and reception halls. It is an area chosen for weddings, first communions, christenings and family parties with many guests.

The list includes caterers based in the area and Rome caterers that serve it. Each listing shows the base and the areas each caterer says it serves.

Halls, farmhouses and logistics

Many venues in the area are reception halls with their own kitchen and staff. In that case the catering is already included and the choice is mainly about the menu. If, on the other hand, you rent a farmhouse or a villa with no tie-in, you choose the caterer. The difference is explained in the guide on exclusive or open venues.

At an open venue, ask the caterer whether it brings a field kitchen, who supplies power and water, where the vans park and how long set-up and clear-down take. With many guests the number of waiters matters too: the guide on how many waiters you need helps you do the maths.

Country roads and those in the hilltop villages can be narrow. If the venue is isolated, check that the caterer's vehicles can get there without trouble in the evening too.

Seasons and weather

Spring and early autumn are the most requested seasons for outdoor receptions. In summer the days are hot: think about shaded areas for the drinks, water always available and a menu that can stand the heat. In the hills the evening cools down early. A covered plan B is needed in every season.

The menu remains your choice. You can ask for local produce and wines as an option, but a caterer from the area also works with fish menus, buffets, finger food or themed food stations.

Guests and the day's timings

For first communions, christenings and weddings with many guests, timings matter. The church ceremony, the transfer and arrival at the venue must be clear to the caterer, which needs to know when to serve the drinks and when to sit down to eat. If there is a long wait between ceremony and reception, ask for a welcome with water and something to eat, especially for children and older guests.

What to ask the caterer

• Travel: included in the price or extra? Does it change between Zagarolo and Colleferro?
• Transport costs: vehicles, hire of tables, chairs and tableware, collection at the end of the event.
• On-site kitchen: is an existing kitchen used or a field kitchen?
• Permits: music times, use of outdoor spaces, any permits from the council.
• Children's menu and diets: for first communions and family parties, ask how they handle children, allergies and intolerances.

Have every item written in the quote. Once you have the date, guests and venue, request up to 3 quotes.