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Catering FAQ

frequently asked questions

How far in advance should I place my order?

We recommend placing your catering order at least 24 hours in advance to ensure availability and proper preparation.

What's included with my catering order?

Every order comes with:

  • Serving Utensils
  • Bowls, forks and napkins
  • Chafers and sternos (for buffet style)
  • Setup assistance from your catering specialist

Do you offer delivery?

Yes!

  • Within 5 miles: Delivery available for a 10% fee
  • Beyond 5 miles: Additional delivery fees may apply - just ask!

What's the minimum order size?

We require a $100 minimum for all delivery catering orders. Pickup orders do not require a minimum.

Do you offer vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free options?

Absolutely. We offer a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. Let us know your guests’ dietary needs and we’ll tailor the menu accordingly.

Can I customize my order?

Yes!
You can add extra proteins, sauces, and toppings to create a meal experience your guests will love. Just ask your catering specialist for recommendations.

What is Zao Catering Karma?

Zao Catering Karma is our rewards program that gives back every time you cater:

  • Earn 4 points per $1 spent on catering
  • Redeem points for free food, drinks, and credits
  • Example: Spend $500, earn 2000 points—enough for $60 in free Zao!

Track and redeem your points in the Zao app using your catering email and phone number.

How do I place an order?

You can:

What types of events do you cater?

We cater:

  • Office lunches
  • Family gatherings
  • Corporate events
  • School functions
  • Celebrations of all kinds

Whether you’re feeding 10 or 1,000, we’ve got you covered.

Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

Yes, we understand plans can shift. If you need to adjust your order, please contact us as soon as possible. While we can’t guarantee changes close to the event time, we’ll do our best to accommodate updates made at least 24 hours in advance.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance can typically be processed without penalty. For cancellations within 24 hours of the scheduled event, a 10% cancellation fee will be applied. Please reach out to your catering specialist for details.

Can you accommodate last-minute or same-day catering orders?

We recommend placing orders at least 24 hours in advance, but we’ll always try to help with last-minute needs when possible. Availability may vary based on location, time, and group size—give us a call and we’ll do our best to make it happen.

Can I schedule recurring catering for weekly or monthly events?

Absolutely! We love supporting regular team lunches, office meals, and ongoing events. Let us know your schedule and preferences, and we’ll help set up a recurring catering plan that works for you.

Is gratuity included in the catering fee?

Gratuity is not automatically included in our catering fees. If you’d like to add a tip for your catering specialist or delivery team, you’re welcome to do so. We appreciate your generosity and support!

Can I use Zao Catering Karma points toward a catering order?

Yes! You can redeem your Zao Karma points for catering credits and rewards. Reach out to your catering specialist and they will be able to help you apply those rewards to your upcoming catering order.