How to choose the right caterer ?

1.Culinary style

The caterer’s culinary style sets the tone for your event. Traditional southwest cuisine, vegetarian, gourmet, fusion, street food,etc. It must match your event’s identity and your guests’ profile. A rustic outdoor wedding won’t require the same approach as a high-end product launch downtown. This is the starting point to ensure consistency between your concept and what ends up on the plate.

2. Logistics

A caterer’s performance goes beyond cooking, it extends to logistics : handling large numbers, cooking on site, delivering to unusual venues (estates, beaches, reception tents), etc. Some caterers have their own equipment, others adapt to existing infrastructure. Anticipate logistics carefully, especially for outdoor or remote locations.

3. Ethical commitments

Eco-responsibility is becoming a core value in the event industry. Many caterers in Nouvelle-Aquitaine support local sourcing, organic products, zero waste, and seasonal menus. Consider this in line with your values. These choices can enhance your event’s communication, especially for brands or companies mindful of CSR goals. Guests also increasingly appreciate these commitments.

4. Technical constraints

A good caterer knows how to work within the real-world parameters of your event: number of guests, event duration, on-site installation, coordination with other vendors. Don’t forget technical specifics like truck access, power supply, or serving times. An experienced caterer will ask the right questions from the start to avoid unpleasant surprises.

5. Type of service

The type of catering service greatly influences the overall experience. It’s important to distinguish between formats:

• Traditional catering (full service, turnkey).
  
• Private chef (ideal for intimate or upscale formats).
  
• Buffet or cocktail reception (friendly, flexible, often more budget-friendly).

Each format has advantages depending on your event type and budget. Don’t hesitate to request customized combinations, many caterers are flexible and creative.

👉 Also read : Our places : Bordeaux castles

Our selection of top caterers in Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Here’s a selection of trusted caterers, each recognized for excellence in their domain, in Bordeaux, Biarritz, La Rochelle, and nearby:

La Maison Monblanc

• Where : Near Bordeaux.
• Specialty : Bespoke gourmet cuisine, in collaboration with Michelin-starred chefs.
• Commitment : Artisan excellence, eco-responsibility, use of local and seasonal products.
• Why we recommend them : With more than 70 years of expertise, Maison Monblanc is a reference in the southwest. Their personalized approach and attention to detail ensure memorable events.

La Maison Capdevieille

• Where : Bordeaux.
• Specialty : Custom event planning, combining regional gastronomy and creativity. 
• Commitment : Family-owned since 1989. ISO 20121 certified, proving their commitment to sustainable and responsible event management.
• Why we recommend them : With over 30 years of experience, Capdevieille is known for its professionalism, passion for gastronomy, and ability to adapt to client needs. Their 2000 m² modern production lab allows them to manage multiple events at once, ensuring quality and environmental care.

Citrus

• Where : Biarritz.
• Specialty : Gourmet custom cuisine for private and corporate events, featuring local and seasonal products.
• Commitment : Founded by Michelin-starred chef Christophe Grosjean, with 25 years of experience in France and abroad (notably California). With his partner Marine Lieber, an expert in event planning, they offer personalized, eco-conscious services using 100% biodegradable and compostable packaging.
• Why we recommend them : Citrus Traiteur stands out for its premium yet friendly approach, offering services such as private chef, cocktail receptions, and a takeaway boutique. Their focus on detail, product quality, and adaptability make them a top choice for successful events.

Barrère Traiteur

• Where : Anglet.
• Specialty : Gourmet cuisine blending tradition and creativity, for custom receptions from 6 to 2000 guests. 
• Commitment : Family-owned since 1958, passed down over three generations. First caterer in Aquitaine certified HACCP, ensuring flawless hygiene and food safety. Uses fresh, local ingredients from the best markets and producers in the Basque Country.
• Why we recommend them : With more than 60 years of experience, Barrère Traiteur is known for its professionalism, culinary passion, and ability to tailor services to each client. Their modern kitchen facility and wide network (venues, photographers, decorators) enable turnkey services for flawless, memorable events.

Fabrice Béchemin Réception

• Where : Near La Rochelle. 
• Specialty : Bespoke gourmet cuisine for weddings, receptions, and private events. Combines culinary expertise, originality, and elegance.
• Commitment : An experienced chef focused on creative cooking, quality ingredients, and discreet, professional service. Known for being attentive and adaptable to clients’ expectations.
• Why we recommend them : Praised for his rigor, attention to detail, and personalized approach. His ability to turn a meal into a true gastronomic experience makes him a trusted choice for elegant and unforgettable events.

LB-Events

• Where : Near La Rochelle.
• Specialty : Full-service planning for private and professional events with high-end catering. Inventive, refined cuisine using quality, modern ingredients.
• Commitment : Passionate team with a tailored approach and excellent listening. LB Events stands out through its attention to product quality and culinary presentation.
• Why we recommend them : Known for responsiveness, creativity, and excellence, making them a reliable partner for stylish and personalized events. Strong team cohesion, professionalism, and turnkey services.

👉 Also read : How to organize a corporate cocktail party ?

Tips for a smooth collaboration

• Book early : top caterers get booked quickly, especially from May to September.
  
• Schedule a tasting : essential to refine your menu and build a relationship with your caterer.
  
• Coordinate all vendors : marquees, furniture, tableware… At Atawa, we facilitate connections and overall coordination.
  
• Plan waste management : choose committed caterers with clear plans (sorting, recycling, reusable containers).

Choosing the right caterer in the southwest means ensuring a smooth, flavorful, and memorable event. Nothing should be left to chance, from culinary style and values to logistics and vendor coordination. A great caterer doesn’t just cook, they anticipate, adapt, and elevate each moment of togetherness. With the right partners, you’ll deliver a service that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Trust our partner caterers to turn your event into a true culinary experience. Atawa supports you every step of the way, for a stress-free, 100% custom event.