From Canapés to Tavas: 10 Food, Alcohol, and Catering Terms You Should Know

If, during your catering research, you’ve worried you’ve been confusing apéritifs with appetizers or you’ve wondered what in the world napery is, you’re not alone.

 Many people find that while they’re familiar with most of the names, services, and descriptions they encounter on caterers’ websites and menus, they can’t necessarily say what everything means.  

That’s why we created the guide below. In it, you’ll find some of the more common catering terms you’re likely to come across these days.

 We hope these definitions make your catering research considerably more appetizing. And, if you still have questions, we’re always happy to help.

Apéritif

 This is a French term for an alcoholic beverage served before dinner, possibly during a cocktail hour, to stimulate the appetite. These drinks are not very sweet (sugary drinks can be appetite quenchers), and tend to go light on the alcohol. You may also encounter the Italian version of this word: aperitivo.

 Canapé

 This finger food generally is made up of a pastry, cracker, or small piece of bread holding one or more toppings, from savory spreads, vegetables, and meats to cream cheese, jellies, and fruits. At celebrations, you might see people holding a canapé in one hand and a cocktail in the other.

 Charger

 In the catering world, a charger isn’t the device you use to keep your phone or laptop battery functioning. It’s part of a formal place setting. The charger, also known as a service plate, is a decorative base for dinnerware. It remains in place as each course is served, through the entree.

Food stations

 You can think of food stations as mini-buffets: food tables set up at strategic places in your event area. Whether you’re offering gumbo, carved meats, or parfaits, these stations can be a great way to infuse a creative touch into your meal or reinforce the theme of your event. A macaroni and cheese food station, for example, works perfectly with a country wedding.

Intermezzo

 During a multi-course meal, an intermezzo is a brief delay or intermission before the main course is served. Some caterers offer sorbet during this time so the hosts and their guests can refresh their mouths with a clean flavor and enjoy the next course even more. 

Miniature Food Catering

 Offering tiny versions of popular dishes has become all the rage at weddings and special events, and caterers are responding with increasingly creative options, from pulled pork sliders on little buns to desserts served in shot glasses. 

Napery

 These are your linens, including tablecloths, napkins, and runners.

Rentals

 If a catering service offers rentals, that means that in addition to preparing and serving food for your event, they also can provide you with the equipment you’ll need. Catering rentals generally include tables, chairs, linens, and tableware. Some caterers give you the option of renting non-essentials, too, from centerpieces to signage.

TABC licensed

 If you’re in Texas, and you want to serve alcohol at your event, your catering service and event venue must be licensed by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission.

Tava

 A tava (or tawa) is a griddle or frying pan frequently used to prepare Indian cuisine. If you see a reference to Tava-Fried Vegetables on a menu — a popular catered dish these days  — it means your veggies are being prepared, and possibly served, on a tava.