Art of Eating Catering & Event Planning

What the 20% administrative fee does and does not cover

The fee applies to the food, staffing and beverage totals. Art of Eating states it is not a tip. Gratuity for the staff is separate and left to your discretion. In practice that means two lines on the invoice above the menu price, one fixed and one optional, before tax. Ask for a sample invoice early so the fee is built into your budget from the first quote. The tasting is also charged per person, and that charge is deducted in full only if you book.

Bar service without a second contract

Because the company holds its own liquor license, it can sell and serve alcohol directly. Many Long Island caterers require you to buy the alcohol yourself or bring in a licensed bar vendor. Here the beverage total sits on the same contract as the food, which is also why the administrative fee applies to it.

Beach, tent and planning, from 8 guests to 10,000

The FAQ says the company handles events from 8 to 10,000 plus guests, coordinates tents, rentals and logistics, and staffs them with a choice of uniform styles. It also sells full wedding planning. The kitchen leans on seasonal East End ingredients and will produce vegan, gluten-free, allergy-aware and Kosher meals. Beach events are a stated specialty, which on the South Fork usually means permits and sand-ready rentals. Nothing on the FAQ says who pulls those permits, so ask.