Catering Melbourne – Fresh, Healthy and Delicious Menus backed with Exceptional Service.
No matter what type of catering you require in Melbourne, be it corporate catering, office catering, event catering, wedding catering or catering for the once-off special event, Essential Catering and Events will deliver beautiful food that’s unpretentious, hand-crafted with love, that’s seasonally fresh and packed with flavour.
We offer an extensive range of menu choices, from casual buffet to elegant finger food and formal sit-down dinners.
Our experienced catering and event coordinators can help you choose the perfect menu to suit your occasion and your budget. We also operate and partner with many special occasion and event venues throughout Melbourne and the Yarra Valley.
At Essential Catering and Events Melbourne, we’re all about exceptional standards, not only with delicious food but with a genuinely tailored service that will exceed your expectations for your next catering event.
Menus
Corporate Breakfast Menu
breakfast menus
Essential Catering & Events offers a range of breakfast options, flexible in design, offering a variety of fresh produce, ideal for corporate events and social occasions alike.
Grazing Station or Roaming Breakfast
Open tartlets: smoked salmon, goats cheese and capers, or mushroom with thyme & brie
Oven roasted chorizo, capsicum and tomatoes with Spanish paprika & sherry vinegar deglaze on
rosemary focaccia
Parma ham and mozzarella cheese croissants
Chorizo sausage, kipfler potato and rosemary frittata
French toast with rhubarb compote and vanilla mascarpone
Croissants with preserves and French butter
Assorted fruit and chocolate muffins
Assorted Danish pastries
Fresh seasonal fruit & mint skewers
| Pricing Structure | 2017|2018 | |
| 3 pieces per person – per person (1.5 hour service period) | 15 | |
| 5 pieces per person – per person (1.5 hour service period) | 23 | |
| Additional Items – per person | 4 |
Pricing based on minimum numbers of 40 people, surcharges apply for smaller groups. Waiting staff, surcharges & additional equipment fees may apply, but vary depending upon locations & circumstances.
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Plated Breakfast
Continental
Continental breakfast platters served to the guest’s tables or on a buffet
Bircher muesli, fresh seasonal fruit compote and sweetened yoghurt
Danish fruit pastries and croissants
Seasonal fruit platters
Assorted fruit & chocolate mini muffins
Plated Breakfast
Choose one dish to be served with the continental breakfast.
Country scrambled eggs, bacon, field mushrooms and herb tomato
Ricotta hot cakes, lemon curd and berry coulis
Baked Spanish eggs, chorizo and roasted red peppers
Sautéed mushrooms, avocado and mascarpone cream, organic English muffins
Smoked salmon, crème fraiche and buckwheat blinis
G = Gluten Free, V = Vegetarian
| Pricing Structure | 2017|2018 | |
| Continental – per person (1.5 hour service period) | 20 | |
| Continental | Plated Breakfast – per person (2.5 hour service period) | 30 |
Pricing based on minimum numbers of 40 people, surcharges apply for smaller groups. Waiting staff, surcharges & additional equipment fees may apply, but vary depending upon locations & circumstances.
Coffee, Tea & Beverage Options
Served for the duration of your event menu
Tea & Coffee Buffet
Beraldo coffee & Serenitea tea 3.50 per person
Served to table option POA
Nespresso coffee and Serenitea Buffet
Nespresso (Commercial) coffee machines and Serenitea tea 5.50 per person
Maximum event size for Nespresso 100 people
Espresso Barista Coffee Cart
Serving espresso coffee, Serenitea teas & hot chocolates
100 or less people 600
100 -300 people 800
300 greater POA
Juice and Water served on buffet 2.50 per person
Smoothies Kiwifruit, spinach, pineapple & banana |Mango, vanilla & soy milk| 4.00 each
Berry & yoghurt
Pricing based on minimum numbers of 40 people, surcharges apply for smaller groups. Waiting staff, additional equipment fees & surcharges may apply, but vary depending upon locations & circumstances. Pricing effective to 31st December 2018 and subject to change without notice. All pricing will be confirmed upon confirmation of your event.
Healesville Races Menu
2017/2018 racing season
We have your food and beverages covered at the picturesque Yarra Valley Healesville picnic races.
The Essential Caterer understands that every function is unique, whether you are hosting an event for your clients or a social picnic catching up with friends, you can be assured of our attention to detail, exceptional food and exemplary service will be provided.
Our mouth-watering menu choices will delight the heartiest of appetites, ensuring your race day is one that you and your guests will long remember. With our unmatched flexibility we can tailor a personalised menu just for you!
Our packages are all inclusive of the following:
Chefs, waiters and event managers
- Mobile kitchens & equipment
- Crockery, cutlery, buffet ware
- Glassware & barware for booked beverage packages
- Travel fee
Please note our drop off picnic hampers do not include any of the above services
Please feel free to contact our sales team to discuss your upcoming day at the Healesville picnic races.
Beverage Package
Your Essentials 4 hour $29.40pp
- Semillon SauvignonBlanc–The Habitat
- Shiraz– Waterstone Bridge, King Valley
- CarltonDraught, CascadeLight
- Soft drink and water
*Add sparkling wine to the package @ $5 per head Wild River Sparkling NV Vic
Raise The Bar 4 hour $38.80pp
Light beer, soft drink, orange juice, sparkling water and water are all included
Beer & Cider – Select 2
Corona,Stella Artois, Carlton draught, AsahiSuperDry, CoopersPaleAle, PremiumAppleorPear Cider-Napoleone
Sparkling & White varieties– Select 2
- Paul Louis Blanc de Blancs Sparkling, Loire, France
- Pizzini Prosecco, King Valley
- Coldstone Sparkling Pinot Chardonnay
- Yering Station Village Chardonnay, Yarra Valley
- Pizzini Pinot Grigio, King Valley
- Mount Vernon Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough, NZ
Red varieties-Select 2
- Yering Station Village Shiraz Viognier Yarra Valley
- Xanadu DJL Rose, Margaret River WA
- Pizzini Sangiovese, King Valley Vic
- Paynes Rise Redlands Shiraz, YarraValley
- Bulong Estate Cabernet Merlot, Yarra Valley
- Dominique Portet Cabernet Sauvignon Yarra Valley
Finger Food Menu
The Finger Food Menu offers flexible options perfect for any occasion ranging from a formal affair or casual get together.
Pricing Structure & Options
Cold selection
- Herb pikelets, blue cheese and pear (V)
- Caramelised onion and Yarra Valley Persian fetta tartlets with thyme (V)
- Buckwheat and nori pancake with smoked salmon, apple, radish, mirin and soy dressing (G)
- Petit naan breads with mango, cashew and coriander salsa (V)
- Chicken Caesar tartlets
- Bruschetta: tomato, basil, bocconcini, olive crumb (V)
- Rich tomato tartlet, capsicum & olives (V)
- Prosciutto wrapped melon, balsamic glaze (G)
Hot Selection
- Basil pesto arancini balls with aioli (V)
- Sumac and pinenut lamb koftas with pomegranate and mint yoghurt (G)
- House made pork fennel and caramelised onion sausage rolls
- Gourmet local beef pies with tomato relish Japanese vegetable pancakes with Yakiniku and kewpie (V)
- Yarra Valley venison sausage delice with olive tapenade (G)
- The Essential Caterer fried chicken with chipotle mayonnaise
- House made pizza;
- Pork belly with local cider spiked BBQ sauce
- Spiced pumpkin, goat cheese, sweet capsicum sauce (V)
- Tomato, basil puree, bocconcini, caramelised onion (V)
Substantial items Add a Substantial dish to your menu. $14.00 per person
- Dishes are served in bowls or cones
- Fish and chips: Flathead tails with chips, lemon wedge and aioli
- Black sesame & wasabi crusted chicken with Asian coleslaw, coriander & soy (G)
- Beef braise: Slow braised coconut, ginger, sweet potato mash (G)
- Slow cooked barbequed pork sliders & apple slaw in brioche buns
- Basil crusted salmon fillet, kipfler & avocado salad, crème fraiche dressing
- Crumbed mushroom; charred vegetable salad with roasted capsicum mayonnaise (V)
Desserts
- Petite baked cheesecake, caramelized strawberries, mint syrup
- Chocolate royale tartlets- choc shell, raspberry marshmallow, jam and chocolate ganache
- Date and ginger petit pudding, salted caramel, oat crumb
- Mini chocolate lamingtons, Turkish delight cream, rose petals
- Citrus tarts, meringue brulee shards
- Dark chocolate mousse cups (G)
- Flourless orange and marmalade torte (G)
G = Gluten Free, V = Vegetarian
Carvery Buffet Menu
Succulent roast meats, abundant artisan salads, finished with a decadent dessert buffet.
Pricing Structure & Options
Option 2: Add Canapes 1/2 an hour service $13.50
Canapés
½ hour chef’s selection of canapés on arrival, 4 pieces
Main
- Meat selection-Marinated golden roasted meats
- Marinated roast beef with horseradish crème (G)
- Roast pork & crackling with Yarra Valley apple sauce (G)
Salads and Sides
- Classic garden salad (G, V)
- Asian style coleslaw with wasabi soy mayonnaise (G,V)
- Slow roasted pumpkin, sweet potato & Turkish bread salad, mint pomegranate yoghurt (V)
- Garlic & rosemary roasted chat potatoes (G,V)
- Grant’s local organic sourdough rolls, served with butter
Desserts
- Baked cheesecake, strawberry & rhubarb compote
- Dark rich flourless chocolate cake, citrus ganache (G)
G = Gluten Free, V = Vegetarian
Buffet Menu
Modern buffet menu offering a variety of cuisines, abundant artisan salads, finished with a decadent dessert buffet.
Pricing Structure & Options
Option 2: Add Canapes 1/2 an hour service $13.50
Canapés
½ hour chef’s selection of canapés on arrival, 4 pieces
Main Buffet – Select two hot dishes to serve
- Crispy skinned salmon, green herb crust, sage and lemon butter sauce
- Yarra Glen Gourmet sausages (G)
- Herb and lemon crumbed chicken pieces with chipotle mayonnaise
- Chargrilled beef, Asado style, parsley chimchurri sauce (G)
Salad, vegetable and Sides
- Classic garden salad (G, V)
- Asian style coleslaw with wasabi soy mayonnaise (G,V)
- Garlic & rosemary roasted chat potatoes (G,V)
- Grant’s local organic sourdough rolls, served with butter
Desserts
- Rich flourless chocolate cake with ganache (G)
- Salted caramel cheesecake
G = Gluten Free, V = Vegetarian
Street Food Hawker Menu
Guests mingle around themed hawker stands, serving authentic street food inspired by iconic international dishes from around the globe!
Pricing Structure & Options
(There is a minimum number of 80 people for this menu)
Option 1: 3 hawkers stands and roaming finger food (3 hour service period) $56.00
Option 2: 4 hawkers stands and roaming finger food (3 hour service period) $65.00
Roaming assorted finger food Chef’s selection of 3 items
Wasabi & Soy Themed hawker cart, bamboo steamer baskets & Asian lanterns
Assorted steamed and fried dumplings & gyoza
House made prawn toast & assorted sushi
South of the border Themed with patterned cloths, piñatas & Mexican sombreros, & ponchos
Enchiladas; Beef tomato & Spanish onion with chipotle mayonnaise; Crab, avocado & lime salsa; Roasted corn, tomato with coriander; slow braised beans, sour cream & chilli sauce
Born in the USA Themed with USA stars & stripes pop up stand
Pulled pork or beef sliders served in a Grants organic corn roll;
Mushroom slider served in a Grants organic corn roll (V)
Saffron Themed with red, green & gold cloths
Sticky braised pork samosas; Tandoori chicken skewers (GF); Vegetable pakora served with yogurt riata (V)
Toss’d Themed with retro salad bar sign, synthetic grass & planters
A choice of beef noodle salad (GF); Moroccan style chicken salad; Tofu & shitake mushroom with tatsoi (V)
Old Buoy Themed with heavy sailor’s ropes and cray pots
Flat head tails and chips served with lemon wedge in cones with choice of tartar sauce, garlic aioli or tomato relish; Polenta chips available for vegetarian option
Sweet Surrender Themed with pretty pink gingham cloths, high tea stands
Cupcakes, slices, tarts… yum
Plus Paleta handmade icy poles assorted fruit flavours $3.50 upgrade per person
G = Gluten Free & V = Vegetarian
Gourmet Platter Selection
This is a self catering option and platters will be delivered too you at 1145am. Served in disposable boxes with napkins
- Bakery Selection
- Sandwich Platters selection 30 points(7.5sandwiches) $65.00
- Gourmet wraps,varietyof fillings (V)(18 halves per platter) $65.00
- Gourmet baguettes,variety of fillings (V)(8 baguettes) $65.00
- Bagels Smoked salmon, caperberries & cream cheesebagels (8 bagels) $70.00
- Sliders Mini chicken schnitzel sliders with chili mayo & Asian Slaw (8 Sliders) $76.00
Savoury Platters
- v Caramelised onion & Yarra Valley Persian fetta tarts (V) (30 pieces) $94.00
- v Basil pesto & sundried tomato quiches (30 pieces) $94.00
- v Chicken Caesar tartlets (30 pieces) $94.00
- v AntiPasto platter to include Olives, curedmeats, Mediterranean frittata, $96.00
- marinated vegetables,dipsandgrilledTurkishbread,serves10-15people
- v Australian Cheese Platter:Tarago river brie, Maffra cloth vintage cheddar, $96.00
- Gippsland Blue, driedfruits, water crackers and fruit loaf, serves 10-15
- v Trio of housemade dips withTurkish bread platter (Serves 10) $45.00
- v Seasonal fruitplatter(Serves 10) $56.00
Dessert Platters
- v Assorted fruit & chocolate muffins (30 pieces) $94.00
- v Freshly baked lemon scones with cream & jam (30 pieces) $94.00
- v Citrus Tartlets (30 pieces) $94.00
- v Rich chocolate & date brownie (30 pieces) $94.00
Pricing based on minimum numbers of 40 people, surcharges apply for smaller groups. Waiting staff, additional equipment fees & surcharges may apply, but vary depending upon locations & circumstances. Pricing effective to 30th April 2017 and subject to change without notice. All pricing will be confirmed upon confirmation of your event.
Corporate Conference Menu
day delegate conference package $39 per head
½ day package available from $30 per head
morning tea break
- Freshly brewed Beraldo coffee & Sernitea teas, orange juice and water
- Choose 1 items from the morning & afternoon tea selections
lunch buffet
- Your choice of 3 items from the lunch selections
- Freshly brewed Beraldo coffee & Sernitea teas, orange juice and water
afternoon tea break
- Freshly brewed Beraldo coffee & Sernitea teas, orange juice and water
- Choose 1 items from the morning & afternoon tea selections
Our conference menus include morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea, including a beverage station for each break, crockery, cutlery, buffet ware and glasses.
For consecutive day conferences please speak to our team for further menu selections.
Pricing based on minimum numbers of 40 people, surcharges apply for smaller groups.
Waiting staff, surcharges & additional equipment fees may apply, but vary depending upon
locations & circumstances.
morning & afternoon tea selections
All breaks served with our beverage station Beraldo fair trade percolated coffee, Sernitea, orange juice & still water
Please choose 1 item for morning tea and 1 item for afternoon tea
- Seasonal fruit platter (G)
- Freshly baked white chocolate and raspberry muffins
- Double chocolate cookies
- Assorted slices, including hedgehog, apricot crumble, zesty lemon, mint slice, cherry delight, salted caramel fudge
- Baked banana bread with lime butter
- Savoury muffins potato, pumpkin & spinach (V)
- Homemade lemonade scones with jam and cream
- Petite jam donuts
- House made citrus tarts
- Rich chocolate fudge brownie
- Olive, sundried tomato & oregano scone with herb butter (V)
- Seasonal berry friands (G)
- Cinnamon donuts
- Assorted Danish Pastries
Or you can choose to serve this grazing station option instead $5 extra per person
- Anti Pasto platter to include Olives, cured meats, Mediterranean frittata, marinated vegetables, dips and grilled Turkish bread
- Australian cheese platters; Italian gorgonzola, South Cape Brie, Wattle Valley cheddar, house made quince paste, dried fruits, crackers & lavosh
lunch menu
All breaks served with our beverage station Beraldo fair trade percolated coffee, Sernitea, orange juice & still water
From the bakery
(Please select two items from below to serve)
- Gourmet sandwiches 4 points, assorted fillings (V)
- Freshly made wraps, with a variety of gourmet fillings (V)
- Crunchy baguettes, with assorted variety of fillings (V)
- Smoked salmon, caper berries & cream cheese bagels
- Yarra Valley Ham, Swiss cheese & tomato croissants
- Mini chicken schnitzel sliders with chili mayo & Asian Slaw
Salads and other
(Please select one item from below to serve)
- Anti Pasto platter to include Olives, cured meats, Mediterranean frittata, marinated vegetables, dips and grilled Turkish bread
- Roasted tomato, basil & fetta tartlets (V)
- Assorted quiches; Sundried tomato & basil (V), Ham and brie
- Assorted sushi served with wasabi & soy
- Chicken Caesar – Crispy Cos lettuce, grilled bacon, lightly poached eggs, garlic infused croutons, topped with poached chicken and Caesar dressing
- Thai chicken salad, glass noodles, coriander, carrot, snow peas and sweet chilli sauce and soy deglaze finished with coconut sambal (G)
- Cambodian beef salad, gem lettuce, lime and chilli dressing (G)
- Herb poached salmon, pear and roquette salad, sherry mayonnaise (G)
- Eggplant tofu and tomato salad, caramelised ginger and sesame sauce (G,V)
- Caprese’ – Roma tomatoes, marinated bocconcini, basil leaves, pesto and baby spinach (G,V)
Coffee, Tea & Beverage Upgrades
Arrival Tea & Coffee Buffet
Beraldo coffee & Serenitea tea $3.50 per person
Nespresso coffee and Serenitea Buffet
Nespresso (Commercial) coffee machines and Serenitea tea $7 per person
Maximum event size for Nespresso 100 people
Espresso Barista Coffee Cart
Serving espresso coffee, Serenitea teas & hot chocolates
100 or less people $600
100 -300 people $800
300 greater POA
Smoothies Kiwifruit, spinach, pineapple & banana |Mango, vanilla & soy milk|
Berry & yoghurt $4.00 each
Water Station All day buffet where guest can replenish their water bottles $90
Hot lunch buffet upgrade $ 14 per head
Hot lunch menu
(Select two hot dishes to serve)
Asian style sticky pork shoulder (G)
Crispy skinned salmon, green herb crust, sage and lemon butter sauce
Thai green chicken curry (G)
Yarra Glen Gourmet sausages (G)
Herb and lemon crumbed chicken pieces with chipotle mayonnaise
Chargrilled beef, Asado style, parsley chimchurri sauce (G)
Lamb & pinenut kofta with quince glaze
Ligurian style rockling, olives, tomatoes, oregano, lemon and olive oil (G)
Roasted pumpkin and ricotta ravioli, feta, sage and roquette sauce
Vegetarian paella: slow roasted capsicum ragu, paprika, green peas, parsley & roasted garlic (G)
Sides – Choice of three side options
Salad
Quinoa, barley & edamame bean salad with Yarra Valley Persian fetta dressing (G, V)
Charred cos, witlof & crispy pancetta with lemon pecorino dressing (G)
Classic garden salad (G, V)
Roquette, toasted pine nuts & parmesan salad (G,V)
Asian style coleslaw with wasabi soy mayonnaise (G,V)
Slow roasted pumpkin, sweet potato & Turkish bread salad, mint pomegranate yoghurt (V)
Roasted red capsicum & orecchiette pasta salad (V)
Vegetables
Garlic & rosemary roasted chat potatoes (G,V)
Seeded mustard green beans (G,V)
Roast sweet potato and pumpkin(V)
Zucchini, squash with lemon butter dressing (G,V)
Heirloom roast vegetables (G,V)
Chargrilled corn with lime (G,V)
Coriander rice pilaf (G,V)
G = Gluten Free & V = Vegetarian
Pricing based on minimum numbers of 25 people, surcharges apply for smaller groups. Waiting staff, surcharges & additional equipment fees may apply, but vary depending upon locations & circumstances.Pricing effective to 31st December 2018 and subject to change without notice. All pricing will be confirmed upon confirmation of your event.
Corporate Boardroom Lunch Menu
Unique, specialised boardroom catering delivering appropriate level of service; your choice of two dishes, served alternately to your guests.
Canapés
½ hour chef’s selection of canapés on arrival, 4 pieces
Entrée
Moroccan duck tartlets, pickled radish slaw, raisin chutney
Nicoise prawn, kipfler and avocado salad, lemon and olive oil dressing (G)
Warm heirloom baby vegetable, spiced carrot puree, poached egg, snow pea shoots (G)
Lamb beignet, crusted lamb loin, lentil cassoulet, pea & mint puree (G)
Bouillon of forest mushroom and crème fraiche with Pedro Ximenez (G, V)
Main
Braised five spiced beef cheek, bok choy, ginger, chilli and Vietnamese mint spiked jus (G)
Pork cutlet, sage crust, olive caper berry, shallot and artichoke briagole
Swordfish, smoked potato, buttered spinach, red pepper sauce (G)
Lamb cutlet, dukkah, pinenut kofta, sumac, chickpea, sweet potato and yoghurt (G)
Goats cheese tart tatin, roquette Spanish onion salad (V)
Chicken breast, sweet corn puree, liver pate smear, popcorn shoots, frisee and cognac jus (G)
Dessert
Chocolate marquise, cocoa shortbread tartlet, spiced chocolate ganache
Date and ginger pudding, salted caramel, oat crumb
Slow poached pear, honey spiked cheesecake, caramelised pear gelee
Lemon and polenta torta, blueberry compote, cinnamon spiced mascarpone
Tiramisu, pavlova, coffee bean gel, “bellini” sauce (G)
Rich chocolate mousse, coverture crumbs, citrus syrup (G)
G = Gluten Free, V = Vegetarian
| Pricing Structure | 2017|2018 | ||
| Entree | Main – per person (2.5 hour service period) | 64 | ||
| Main | Dessert – per person (2.5 hour service period) | 64 | ||
| Entree | Main | Dessert – per person (3 hour service period) | 75 | ||
| Canapes – Canape Selection – per person | 13.50 | ||
| Pricing based on minimum numbers of 20 people, surcharges apply for smaller groups Waiting staff, surcharges & additional equipment fees may apply, but vary depending upon locations & circumstances. | |||
Pricing Structure & Options
Pricing based on minimum numbers of 20 people, surcharges apply for smaller groups. Waiting staff, surcharges & additional equipment fees may apply, but vary depending upon locations & circumstances.Pricing effective to 31st December 2018 and subject to change without notice. All pricing will be confirmed upon confirmation of your event.
Drop-Off Catering Menus
Fresh corporate catering convienently delivered to your door, on disposable recyclable platters, for no fuss clean up.
Morning & Afternoon Tea Selections– (Minimum order 10 serves per item) Price per item
Assorted Danish pastries 3.00
Mini citrus tarts 4.00
Mini chocolate ganache tarts 4.00
Rich chocolate & brownie 4.00
Banana bread with lime butter 3.00
Freshly baked lemonade scones with cream & jam 3.50
Chocolate & seasonal fruit muffins 3.50
Double chocolate cookies 3.00
Assorted slices (GF, options available on request) 3.50
Seasonal berry friands (G) 4.00
Zucchini & bacon slice 3.50
Potato, pumpkin & spinach muffin (V) 3.50
Olive, sundried tomato & oregano scone with herb butter (V) 3.50
Lunch Selections – (Minimum order 10 serves per item)
Gourmet sandwiches 4 points, assorted fillings (V) 7.80
Gourmet wraps, variety of fillings (V) 7.80
Gourmet baguettes, variety of fillings (V) 7.80
Smoked salmon, caper berries & cream cheese bagels 8.20
Yarra Valley Ham, Swiss cheese & tomato croissants 6.80
Mini chicken schnitzel sliders with chili mayo & Asian Slaw 9.00
Seasonal fruit platter (Serves 10 – 15) 50.00
Individual salads – (Minimum order of 5 per salad, served in disposable cups) 9.50
Chicken Caesar – Crispy Cos lettuce, grilled bacon, lightly poached eggs, garlic infused croutons, topped with poached chicken and Caesar dressing
Thai chicken salad, glass noodles, coriander, carrot, snow peas and sweet chilli sauce and soy deglaze finished with coconut sambal (G)
Cambodian beef salad, gem lettuce, lime and chilli dressing (G)
Herb poached salmon, pear and rockette salad, sherry mayonnaise (G)
Eggplant tofu and tomato salad, caramilised ginger and sesame sauce (G,V)
Caprese’ – Roma tomatoes, marinated bocconcini, basil leaves, pesto and baby spinach (G,V)
Hot Lunch Selections – (Minimum order 10 pieces per item, delivered cold in foil trays ready for you to heat)
Local gourmet beef & Guinness pies, tomato relish 3.60
House made pork & thyme mini sausage rolls with tomato relish 3.00
Basil pesto & sundried tomato quiche (V) 3.00
Basil pesto Arancini balls with aioli 3.00
Spinach & cheese filo parcels (V) 3.00
Finger Food Platters
Cold Platters
Served on Platters ready for you to serve, pricing is per platter, 30 pieces per platter
Sandwich selection 30 points (7.5 sandwiches), flavours including; 60
Herbed chicken, smoked salmon, fresh turkey breast & vegetarian options 90
Buckwheat nori pancake, smoked salmon, apple, radish, mirin & sesame dressing (G,V) 90
Caramelised onion & Yarra Valley Persian fetta tarts (V) 90
Seasonal fruit platter (Serves 10) 50
Trio of house made dips with Turkish bread platter (Serves 10) 40
Sun-dried tomato and basil scones with herb butter 90
Anti Pasto platter to include Olives, cured meats, Mediterranean frittata, marinated 85
vegetables, dips and grilled Turkish bread, serves 10-15 people
Australian Cheese Platter: Tarago river brie, Maffra cloth vintage cheddar, Gippsland 80
Blue, dried fruits, water crackers and fruit loaf, serves 10-15 people
Dessert Platters
Assorted fruit & chocolate muffins 90
Freshly baked lemonade scones with cream & jam 90
Citrus Tartlets 90
Rich chocolate & date brownie 90
Banana Bread with lime butter 85
Hot Platters
The hot selection of food is delivered cold in foil containers ready to go in the oven. (Approximately takes 10 – 15 minutes to heat in a moderate oven)
Basil pesto Arancini balls with aioli 90
Basil pesto & sundried tomato quiches 90
Sumac, pinenut lamb koftas with pomegranate & mint yoghurt (G) 90
Gourmet mini beef pies served with tomato chutney 110
House made pork, thyme & sage sausage rolls with tomato relish 90
Pricing effective to 31st December 2018 and subject to change without notice. All pricing will be confirmed upon confirmation of your event.
Beverage Menu
To compliment our food service we also offer a range of beverage packages to suit any occasion.
We have a strong regional focus supporting our Yarra Valley neighbors.
Our beverage packages are designed to be flexible to suit your needs. All packages include qualified bar staff, glassware, ice and bar equipment.
Your Essentials
2 Hours 19 per person
4.50 for every hour thereafter
The Habitat Semillon Sauvignon Blanc, Nortrhern Vic
Waterstone Bridge, Shiraz, King Valley, Vic
Carlton Draught, CascadeLight
Soft drink and water
*Add sparkling wine to the package @ 5 per head Wild River Sparkling NV Victoria
Raise the Bar
2 Hours 26 per person
5.50 for every hour thereafter
Beer and cider- Select 2 to serve
Corona, Stella Artois, Carlton draught, Asahi Super Dry, Coopers Pale Ale, Premium Apple & Pear Cider-Napoleone
Sparkling & White varieties – Select 2
Paul Louis Blanc de Blancs Sparkling, Loire, France
Pizzini Prosecco, King Valley
Coldstone Sparkling Pinot Chardonnay
Yering Station Village Chardonnay, Yarra Valley
Pizzini Pinot Grigio, King Valley
Mount Vernon Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough, NZ
Red Varieties – Select 2
Yering Station Village Shiraz Viognier, Yarra Valley, Vic
Xanadu DJL Rose, Margaret River, WA
Pizzini Sangiovese, King Valley,Vic
Paynes Rise Redlands Shiraz,Yarra Valley, Vic
Bulong Estate Cabernet Merlot, Yarra Valley, Vic
Dominique Portet Cabernet Sauvignon Yarra Valley, Vic
Beverage Package Upgrades
Premium French Champagne per bottle
Tray/table waiter service
Cocktails on arrival 45 minutes’ duration
Spirits on arrival 45 minutes’ duration
Aperitifs & Digestifs
Additional Wine selections
3 hour themed cocktail bar
Coffee & tea options
Additional Notes
- The Essential Caterer is committed to our communities and the responsibility associated with our liquor licence and as such responsible service of alcohol is practiced and guests may be refused service from our staff.
- Beverages are only served in conjunction with food service & spirits can be made available upon request.
- Additional time must be arranged prior to the commencement of the function.
- Due to availability and vintage changes some products may not be available, suitable replacements will be utilised.
Buffet Menu
Modern buffet menu offering a variety of cuisines, abundant artisan salads, finished with a decadent dessert buffet.
Pricing Structure & Options
Canapés | Main – per person (2.5 hour service period) 48
Main | Dessert – per person (2.5 hour service period) 48
Canapés | Main | Dessert – per person (3 hour service period) 54
Additional Entree Option: Add Antipasto – per person 10.50
Canapés
- ½ hour chef’s selection of canapés on arrival, 4 pieces
Antipasto
Shared platter
- Salami, prosciutto & pancetta, marinated mixed olives & sundried tomatoes, house made dips, charred & marinated vegetables, herb frittata, crispy Turkish bread & grissini.
Main Buffet
Select two hot dishes to serve
- Asian style sticky pork shoulder (G)
- Crispy skinned salmon, green herb crust, sage and lemon butter sauce
- Thai green chicken curry (G)
- Yarra Glen Gourmet sausages (G)
- Herb and lemon crumbed chicken pieces with chipotle mayonnaise
- Chargrilled beef, Asado style, parsley chimchurri sauce (G)
- Slow braised Moroccan lamb, pita pockets, tabouli, and sumac yoghurt dressing
- Ligurian style rockling, olives, tomatoes, oregano, lemon and olive oil (G)
- Roasted pumpkin and ricotta ravioli, feta, sage and roquette sauce
- Vegetarian paella: slow roasted capsicum ragu, paprika, green peas with parsley and roasted garlic (G)
- Accompaniment: Grant’s local organic sourdough rolls, served with butter
Sides
Choice of three side options
Salad Selection
- Quinoa, barley & edamame bean salad with Yarra Valley Persian fetta dressing (G, V)
- Charred cos, witlof & crispy pancetta with lemon pecorino dressing (G)
- Classic garden salad (G, V)
- Roquette, toasted pine nuts & parmesan salad (G,V)
- Asian style coleslaw with wasabi soy mayonnaise (G,V)
- Slow roasted pumpkin, sweet potato & Turkish bread salad, mint pomegranate yoghurt (V)
- Roasted red capsicum & orecchiette pasta salad (V)
Vegetables
- Garlic & rosemary roasted chat potatoes (G,V)
- Seeded mustard green beans (G,V)
- Roast sweet potato and pumpkin(V)
- Zucchini, squash with lemon butter dressing (G,V)
- Heirloom roast vegetables (G,V)
- Chargrilled corn with lime (G,V)
- Coriander rice pilaf (G,V)
Desserts
Choice of two dessert options
- Rich flourless chocolate cake with ganache (G)
- Salted caramel cheesecake
- Petite Pavlovas, blueberry curd (G)
- Citrus tartlets; brulee meringue shards
- House made chocolate mousse, chocolate crumbs
G = Gluten Free, V = Vegetarian
Pricing based on minimum numbers of 40 people, surcharges apply for smaller groups. Waiting staff, additional equipment fees & surcharges may apply, but vary depending upon locations & circumstances.Pricing effective to 31st December 2018 and subject to change without notice. All pricing will be confirmed upon confirmation of your event.
Carvery Buffet Menu
Succulent roast meats, abundant artisan salads, finished with a decadent dessert buffet.
Pricing Structure & Options
Canapés | Main – per person (2.5 hour service period) $38.00
Main | Dessert – per person (2.5 hour service period) $38.00
Canapés | Main | Dessert – per person (3 hour service period) $50.00
Additional Entree Option: Add Antipasto – per person $10.50
Canapés
½ hour chef’s selection of canapés on arrival, 4 pieces
Antipasto
Shared platter
- Salami, prosciutto & pancetta, marinated mixed olives & sundried tomatoes, house made dips, charred & marinated vegetables, herb frittata, crispy Turkish bread & grissini.
Main
- Meat selection-Marinated golden roasted meats, choice of two
- Marinated roast beef with horseradish crème (G)
- Roast pork & crackling with Yarra Valley apple sauce (G)
- Lemon & herb butter, chicken breast (G)
- *Quince glazed roast leg of lamb with thyme & rosemary, served with mint sauce (G)
*$3 extra per head for lamb
Salad Selection
Choice of three salad options
- Quinoa, barley & edamame bean salad with Yarra Valley Persian fetta dressing (G, V)
- Charred cos, witlof & crispy pancetta with lemon pecorino dressing (G)
- Classic garden salad (G, V)
- Roquette, toasted pine nuts & parmesan salad (G,V)
- Asian style coleslaw with wasabi soy mayonnaise (G,V)
- Slow roasted pumpkin, sweet potato & Turkish bread salad, mint pomegranate yoghurt (V)
- Roasted red capsicum & orecchiette pasta salad (V)
Sides
- Garlic & rosemary roasted chat potatoes (G,V)
- Grant’s local organic sourdough rolls, served with butter
Desserts
Choice of two dessert options
- Pavlova with blueberry curd & vanilla cream (G)
- Dark chocolate mousse, chocolate crumbs
- Baked cheesecake, strawberry & rhubarb compote
- Slow baked apple cake, maple sauce, crumble garnish
- Dark rich flourless chocolate cake, citrus ganache (G)
G = Gluten Free, V = Vegetarian
Pricing based on minimum numbers of 40 people, surcharges apply for smaller groups. Waiting staff, additional equipment fees & surcharges may apply, but vary depending upon locations & circumstances.Pricing effective to 31st December 2018 and subject to change without notice. All pricing will be confirmed upon confirmation of your event.
Plated Service Menu
The plated service menu offers a formal dining experience,with your choice of two unique dishes, served alternately to your guests.
Pricing Structure & Options
Selection of two items per course served as an alternative drop
Entrée | Main – per person (2.5 hour service period) 61
Main | Dessert – per person (2.5 hour service period) 61
Entree | Main | Dessert – per person (3 hour service period) 70
Add Canape & Soup course:
Soup served 50/50 style to guests 10.50
Canapes 1/2 hour service, 4 pieces per person 13.50
Soup
- Capsicum, smoked paprika & chorizo crème (G)
- Ginger & shitake mushroom broth, prawn & vegetable dumpling, chilli oil spring onions & Vietnamese mint
- Classic pumpkin, crème fraiche & chive batons (G, V)
- Maple roasted ham hock, green lentil, Hillcrest extra virgin olive oil (G)
Entrée
- Roasted mushroom & goats cheese bruschetta, balsamic glaze (V)
- Slow braised duck tartlet, French mustard crème, bacon, pear, frisee salad
- Cured salmon, vodka, juniper & lime, baby beets, kipfler crisp, sour cream dressing (G)
- Raviolo of roasted pumpkin, parmesan with roquette, petit herb salad, sage butter sauce (V)
- Venison & pistachio terrine, spiced tomato relish, crisp brioche & cornichons
Main
- Herb roasted chicken breast, parmesan polenta gnocchi, red capsicum coulis (G)
- Beef porterhouse medallions, compressed potato gallette, green beans, shallot, thyme jus (G)
- Oregano crusted snapper, wild mushroom & green pea risotto (G)
- Pork loin “Porchetta”, pear, potato, fennel, asparagus & cider apple jus (G)
- Slow braised lamb wellington, green pea, bacon & du puy lentils with herb jus
- Potato & pea madras samosas, Kashmiri rice, tomato, kashundi & yoghurt riata (G)
- Accompaniment: Grants dinner rolls served with butter
Dessert
- Chocolate marquise, cocoa shortbread tartlet, spiced chocolate ganache
- Date & ginger pudding, salted caramel, oat crumb
- Slow poached pear, honey spiked cheesecake, caramelised pear gelee
- Lemon & polenta torta, blueberry compote, cinnamon spiced mascarpone
- Tiramisu, pavlova, coffee bean gel, “bellini” sauce (G)
- Rich chocolate mousse, coverture crumbs, citrus syrup (G)
G = Gluten Free, V = Vegetarian
Pricing based on minimum numbers of 40 people, surcharges apply for smaller groups. Waiting staff, additional equipment fees & surcharges may apply, but vary depending upon locations & circumstances.Pricing effective to 31st December 2018 and subject to change without notice. All pricing will be confirmed upon confirmation of your event.
Bowl Food Menu
Roaming substantial bowl food, or can be served on food stations buffet style.
Option 1: Four bowl choices – per person (2.5 hour service period) $44.00
Option 2: Five bowl choices – per person (2.5 hour service period) $54.00
Desert Option: Add dessert – per person $10.00
Canapé Option: Add canapés – per person $13.50
Canapés
½ hour chef’s selection of canapés on arrival, 4 pieces
Bowl Dishes
- Black sesame & wasabi crusted chicken with Asian coleslaw, coriander & soy (G)
- Asado beef burger; organic sourdough chimichurri sauce, tomato & lettuce
- Chorizo & prawn skewers with Romesco sauce (G)
- Sumac & lamb kofta, apricot cous cous & pomegranate molasses
- Dukkah crusted egg, rocket & crostini (V)
- Pumpkin, sweet potato & roasted capsicum, toasted pide, mint & zatar labne (V) (GF optional)
- Mini organic brioche, slow braised pork slider, maple & apple glaze, kipfler chips
- Lamb tagine; Parsley, tomato & quinoa tabouli & spicy kashundi (G)
- Yarra Glen game sausage; roasted potato & Roma salad with olive tapenade jus (G)
- Herb crust salmon delice, warm zucchini & capsicum ratatouille, pesto sauce (G)
- Moroccan duck; carrot, ginger & raisin salad ras el hanout dressing (G)
- Crumbed mushroom; charred vegetable salad with roasted capsicum mayonnaise (V)
- Snapper; Goan curry spiced, snake bean, coconut & chilli (G)
Desserts
Choice of two dessert options
- Petite baked cheesecake, caramelized strawberries, mint syrup
- Chocolate royale tartlets- choc shell, raspberry marshmallow, jam and chocolate ganache
- Date and ginger petit pudding, salted caramel, oat crumb
- Mini chocolate lamingtons, Turkish delight cream, rose petals
- Citrus tarts, meringue brulee shards
- Dark chocolate mousse cups (G)
- Flourless orange and marmalade torte (G)
G = Gluten Free, V = Vegetarian
Pricing Structure & Options
Pricing based on minimum numbers of 40 people, surcharges apply for smaller groups. Waiting staff, additional equipment fees & surcharges may apply, but vary depending upon locations & circumstances.Pricing effective to 31st December 2016 and subject to change without notice. All pricing will be confirmed upon confirmation of your event.
Finger Food Menu
The Finger Food Menu offers flexible options perfect for any occasion ranging from a formal affair or casual get together.
Pricing Structure & Options
Selection of 5 items – per person (1.5 hour service period) 19
Selection of 8 items – per person (2 hour service period) 31
Selection of 10 items – per person (2 hour service period) 37 (Equivalent to 2 courses)
Plentiful offering (3 hour service period) 49
Selection of 10 finger food items and your choice of either one substantial item or a Street food stand. This package will ensure your guests are well and truly full.
Cold Selection
- Herb pikelets, blue cheese and pear (V)
- Caramelised onion and Yarra Valley Persian fetta tartlets with thyme (V)
- Buckwheat and nori pancake with smoked salmon, apple, radish, mirin and soy dressing (G)
- Petit naan breads with mango, cashew and coriander salsa (V)
- Sushi;
- Vegetable (G, V)
- Teriyaki chicken (G)
- Avocado and seaweed salad (G, V)
- Chicken Caesar tartlets
- Bruschetta: tomato, basil, bocconcini, olive crumb (V)
- Rare beef crostini with avocado herb mayo
- Five spiced duck & shitake mushroom wonton cup
- Authentic Mexican tortilla;
- Avocado, tomato and chilli (G, V)
- Crab, lime and coriander salsa (G)
- Rich tomato tartlet, capsicum & olives (V)
- Prosciutto wrapped melon, balsamic glaze (G)
Hot Selection
- Basil pesto arancini balls with aioli (V)
- Sumac and pinenut lamb koftas with pomegranate and mint yoghurt (G)
- House made prawn toast with wasabi mayo
- Prawn twisters with wasabi and soy
- Tandoori chicken skewers with a yoghurt riata (G)
- House made pork fennel and caramelised onion sausage rolls
- Gourmet local beef pies with tomato relish
- Japanese vegetable pancakes with Yakiniku and kewpie (V)
- Assorted Asian dumplings with dipping sauce
- Yarra Valley venison sausage delice with olive tapenade (G)
- The Essential Caterer fried chicken with chipotle mayonnaise
- Prawn & chorizio skewers with chilli & sherry mayo (G)
- House made pizza;
- Pork belly with local cider spiked BBQ sauce
- Spiced pumpkin, goat cheese, sweet capsicum sauce (V)
- Tomato, basil puree, bocconcini, caramelised onion (V)
Desserts
- Petite baked cheesecake, caramelized strawberries, mint syrup
- Chocolate royale tartlets- choc shell, raspberry marshmallow, jam and chocolate ganache
- Date and ginger petit pudding, salted caramel, oat crumb
- Mini chocolate lamingtons, Turkish delight cream, rose petals
- Citrus tarts, meringue brulee shards
- Dark chocolate mousse cups (G)
- Flourless orange and marmalade torte (G)
Substantial items and Street food stands
Substantial Items – Add a Substantial dish to your menu. $14.00 per person
- Dishes are served in bowls or cones
- Crumbed mushroom; charred vegetable salad with roasted capsicum mayonnaise (V)
- Fish and chips: Flathead tails with chips, lemon wedge and aioli
- Black sesame & wasabi crusted chicken with Asian coleslaw, coriander & soy (G)
- Beef braise: Slow braised coconut, ginger, sweet potato mash (G)
- Sliders: Slow cooked BBQ pork & apple slaw in brioche buns
- Basil crusted salmon fillet, kipfler & avocado salad, crème fraiche dressing
- Ricotta tortollini with parmesan, pumpkin, basil & Napoli (V)
- Mini chicken schnitzel Turkish roll with coleslaw & herb mayonnaise
- Butter chicken curry served with basmati rice, tomato, snake beans & mini naan bread (G)
- Crumbed mushroom; charred vegetable salad with roasted capsicum mayonnaise (V)
G = Gluten Free, V = Vegetarian
Or
Street food stands- Wow your guests with the colours and delights of one of our Street food stands
– Add a Street food stand to your menu. $16.00 per person
Wasabi & soy Themed hawker cart, bamboo steamer baskets & Asian lanterns
Assorted steamed and fried dumplings & goyoza, house made prawn toast & assorted sushi
South of the border Themed with patterned cloths, piñatas & Mexican sombreros, & ponchos
Enchiladas: beef tomato, Spanish onion with chipotle mayonnaise slow braised beans, sour cream & chilli sauce
Salsa: roasted corn, tomato with coriander crab, avocado & lime
Born in the USA Themed with USA stars & stripes pop up stand
Pulled pork & beef sliders served in a Grants organic corn roll; Mushroom slider served in a Grants organic roll (V)
Saffron Themed with red, green & gold cloths
Sticky braised pork samosas; Classic butter chicken (GF); Vegetable pakora served with yogurt riata (V)
Toss’d Themed with retro salad bar sign, synthetic grass & planters
A choice of beef noodle salad (GF); Moroccan style chicken salad (GF); Tofu & shitake mushroom with tatsoi (V)
Southern fried chicken stand Gingham cloths, hessian, Southern American style
Buttermilk marinated, spicy fried chicken, hot sauce, gravy and coleslaw; Mushroom and tofu marinated in spicy sauce for vegetarian option
Sweet surrender Themed with pretty pink gingham cloths, high tea stands
Cupcakes, chocolate brownie, slices, citrus tarts… yum
G = Gluten Free, V = Vegetarian
Pricing based on minimum numbers of 40 people, surcharges apply for smaller groups. Waiting staff, additional equipment fees & surcharges may apply, but vary depending upon locations & circumstances. Pricing effective to 31st December 2018 and subject to change without notice. All pricing will be confirmed upon confirmation of your event.