Private Dining Vs Catering: Which one is right for you?

Planning an event comes with many choices and one of the biggest is how to serve your guests an unforgettable meal. Should you hire a caterer or opt for a private dining experience with a private chef? Both offer unique benefits, but the right choice depends on your event's size, style, and vibe.

In this guide, we break down the key differences between catering and private dining to help you decide what fits your occasion best.

🥂 What Is Catering?

Catering typically involves preparing food off site and delivering it ready to serve at your event. Caterers can handle anything from casual buffets to plated meals for large weddings, corporate functions or parties.

✅ Best For:

• Weddings and receptions

• Large scale corporate events

• Birthdays or anniversaries with over 25+ guests

• Events with a set menu and timeline

📦 Pros:

• Scalable for large guest counts

• Efficient and streamlined

• Wide menu selection

• Often includes setup, serving staff, and cleanup

⚠️ Cons:

• Less personalised

• May feel less intimate or “mass-produced”

• Limited customisation for small groups

👨‍🍳 What Is Private Dining?

Private dining typically involves hiring a private chef to cook fresh meals on site, tailored specifically to you and your guests. It’s ideal for smaller, intimate gatherings where the dining experience is part of the entertainment.

✅ Best For:

• Intimate dinner parties (2–25 guests)

• Celebrations at home or Airbnb rentals

• Romantic proposals or anniversaries

• VIP client dinners or retreats

📦 Pros:

• Completely personalised menus

• Interactive, luxury experience

• Fresh, on site preparation

• Elegant presentation and pacing

⚠️ Cons:

• Less cost effective for larger groups

• Space and kitchen setup may be required

• Typically doesn’t scale beyond 25 guests

📊 Catering vs. Private Dining: Quick Comparison

Feature Catering Private Dining Guest Count 20+ guests 2–25 guests Food Prep Location Off-site, delivered On-site, freshly prepared Menu Customization Moderate Highly personalized Cost Per Person Lower for large events Higher for small, intimate events Service Style Buffet, plated, or self-serve Chef-plated, fine dining Experience Professional and efficient Intimate and immersive

🤔 Which One Should You Choose?

Ask yourself:

• How many people are you hosting?
  Private dining shines with small groups. Catering scales better.

• Is the meal the centerpiece of the event?
  Go private if you want a true culinary experience. Choose catering if food is just one part of a larger event.

• Do you want to impress with a custom menu and presentation?
  Private dining offers tailored menus, storytelling through food, and personal service.

• Is your space suitable for on-site cooking?
  If yes, private dining becomes a great option. If not, catering might be simpler.

🧑‍🍳 Let’s Make It Easy for You

At The Fig Pantry, we offer both bespoke private dining and full service catering options. Whether you’re planning a cosy dinner for two or an elegant celebration for fifty, we’ll help you deliver an experience your guests won’t forget.

Still unsure which is right for you?
Contact us for a quick consultation, we’ll help you design the perfect event.