San Diego Private Party Catering FAQ
All the questions you're already thinking — answered.
You shouldn't have to email us to find out the basics. Here's what hosts ask us most — pricing, tastings, allergies, guest counts, timing, and yes, the "what if it rains" question.
About how much should we expect to spend on private party catering?
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Most Qfire Private Event land between $48 and $165 per guest depending on menu (Wood-Fired BBQ buffet vs. plated Steakhouse Experience vs. surf & turf), staffing, live-fire grilling, bar service, and rentals. See the 'Average Cost for Catering' example above for a realistic 100-guest budget. Every proposal is itemized — no hidden fees, no surprise gratuities.
Can our menu be fully customized?
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Yes. Every Qfire private party menu is built from scratch around your guests, your dietary needs, your budget, and the vibe you want. Chef Terry will design a custom proposal — passed apps, entrées, sides, dessert — and you can refine it right up until 15 days out.
Can we schedule a private tasting?
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Absolutely. As long as your date is still available, you're welcome to schedule a tasting before booking. You'll sample 3 meats, 3 sides, and 2 appetizers for 5–7 guests ($200) — then decide if we're the right fit.
How does the 35% Date Retainer work?
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Your date is reserved with a 35% Date Retainer that applies 100% to your final invoice. It locks in your date and our team — NOT your menu, guest count, or service style. Those all stay flexible as your planning evolves.
Do you grill onsite at our home or venue?
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Yes — live charcoal grilling is our signature. We roll in the wood-fired grill and cook ribeyes, picanha, brisket, salmon, and chicken right in your backyard, pool deck, estate, park, or rooftop. The aroma, the visual, the freshness — it's the moment your guests remember.
Can we update our guest count later?
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Yes. The final guest count locks in about 7 days before the party. Until then, you can scale up or down as RSVPs come in without any rebooking penalty.
What's the plan if it rains — or if it's 110° in July?
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We plan for weather from day one. Our live-fire grills operate under a canopy in rain, wind, and heat. For extreme conditions we can shift to a covered patio, garage, or interior space without changing your menu. Every proposal includes a weather contingency.
Do you accommodate allergies and dietary restrictions?
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Always. Every proposal includes vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. For peanut, tree-nut, shellfish, and other serious allergies we run a dedicated prep line and label every plate at the pass.
What is the guest minimum for Private Event catering in San Diego County?
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In San Diego County, our Wood-Fired BBQ menus start at 50 guests and the Steakhouse Experience starts at 35 guests. Smaller San Diego private event events are still possible — we just build them as a private chef service instead of a full buffet.
Do you travel throughout San Diego County for private event events?
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Yes. We cater across San Diego County, including La Jolla, Del Mar, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Poway and Coronado. Travel is quoted as a separate line item on your proposal, so you always see exactly what it costs before you book.
How much does private event catering cost in San Diego?
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Most San Diego County private events land between $53 and $170 per guest depending on menu, staffing, live-fire grilling, bar service and rentals. For very small gatherings we offer a private chef service starting at 4 guests. Final totals adjust for state tax and a 10% gratuity.
How far in advance should we book San Diego private event catering?
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Popular San Diego dates book out months ahead, especially in peak season. Send us your date and we'll tell you within 4 hours whether it's still open. Your menu, guest count and service style stay flexible until about 15 days out.
