Corporate Catering Menus
Essential Catering & Events has an extensive range of corporate, office & event catering options to suit any event.
Our menus offer flexible in design, include a variety of fresh local produce, and range from casual buffets to elegant finger food and formal sit-down dinners. We can help you choose the perfect menu, ensuring that your corporate catering event is one that you and your guests will long remember.
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.
Pricing Options
3 Pieces per person (1.5 hour service period) 15
5 Pieces per person (1.5 hour service period) 23
Additional Items – per person 4
Inclusions| Qualified chef, crockery, cutlery, buffet ware & napkins
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 with rosemary focaccia
Coconut, ginger & pineapple muesli cups, spiced yoghurt (v)(gf)
Parma ham and mozzarella cheese croissants
Chorizo sausage, kipfler potato and rosemary frittata (gf)
French toast: brioche, rhubarb compote, cinnamon mascarpone (v)
BBQ corn cakes, capsicum relish (v)(vg)(gf)
Smoked salmon bagels, cream cheese, dill & capers
Croissants with preserves and French butter (v)
Assorted fruit and chocolate muffins (v)
Assorted Danish pastries (v)
Fresh seasonal fruit & mint skewers (gf)(v)
(gf) gluten free (v) vegetarian (vg) vegan option
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 & Yarra Valley tea 3.50 per person
Served to table option POA
Nespresso coffee and Yarra Valley tea Buffet
Nespresso (Commercial) coffee machines and Yarra Valley tea 5.50 per person
Espresso Barista Coffee Cart
Serving espresso coffee, Yarra Valley 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 4.00 each
Kiwifruit, spinach, pineapple & banana |Mango, vanilla & soy milk |Berry & yoghurt
Plated Breakfast
Enjoy a continental breakfast to start served at your table, followed by a plated breakfast. Includes Beraldo coffee and Yarra Valley tea served to the table.
Pricing Options
Continental – per person (1.5 hour service period) 19
Continental | Plated Breakfast – per person (2.5 hour service period) 29
Inclusions| Qualified chef, crockery, cutlery, place setting set up & napkins
Continental
Continental breakfast platters served to the guest’s tables or on a buffet
Select 3 disges to serve
Coconut, ginger & pineapple muesli cups, spiced yoghurt (v)(gf)
Danish fruit pastries, croissants served with preserves & French butter (v)
Seasonal fruit platters(gf)(v)
Assorted fruit & chocolate mini muffins (v)
BBQ corn cakes, capsicum relish (v)(vg)(gf)
Beraldo coffee, Yarra Valley tea and orange juice served to the table.
Plated Breakfast
Choose 1 dish to be served plated to the table.
Herb scrambled eggs, bacon, balsamic mushrooms, tomato and Grants English muffins
Ricotta hot cakes, lemon curd and berry coulis (v)
Baked Spanish eggs, chorizo and roasted red peppers (gf)
Sautéed mushrooms, avocado and mascarpone cream, Grants English muffins (v)
Smoked salmon, crème fraiche & potato hash (gf)
Beraldo coffee, Yarra Valley tea and orange juice served to the table.
(gf) gluten free (v) vegetarian (vg) vegan option
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.
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 & Yarra Valley Teas, orange juice and water
- Choose 2 items from the morning & afternoon tea selections
lunch buffet
- Your choice of 4 items from the lunch selections
- Freshly brewed Beraldo coffee & Yarra Valley Teas, orange juice and water
afternoon tea break
- Freshly brewed Beraldo coffee & Yarra Valley Teas, orange juice and water
- Choose 2 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, Yarra Valley Tea, orange juice & still water
Please choose 2 items for morning tea and 2 items for afternoon tea
- Chocolate and fruit muffins medium (v)
- Assorted Danish pastries (v)
- Apple, cranberry & muesli bread, maple butter (v)
- Rosemary & Yarra Valley feta buttermilk scones, paprika butter (v)
- Cocoa, honey date & oatmeal bar (v)(vg)(gf)
- Assorted slices (gf, options available on request)
- Bacon, cheddar & chive savoury muffin, tomato relish
- Fruit skewers, mint rosewater syrup (v)(vg)
- Rocky road (gf)(v)
- Mini jam donuts (v)
- Cinnamon donuts (v)
- Petite eclairs (v)
- Mini lamingtons (v)
- Baked mushroom and prosciutto tarts
- Freshly baked lemonade scones with cream & jam (v)
- Citrus tarts (v)
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, Yarra Valley Tea, orange juice & still water
From the bakery
(Please select 2 items from below to serve)
- Gourmet sandwiches 4 points, assorted fillings (v)
- Gourmet wraps, variety of fillings (v)
- Gourmet baguettes, variety of fillings (v )
- Open tartlets |Chorizo & capsicum
|Smoked salmon, caper & chervil
|Eggplant, zucchini & rocket pesto (v)
- Chicken schnitzel sliders, sriracha mayo & coleslaw
- Moroccan lamb pita, harissa mayo, parsley quinoa tabouli
Salads and other
(Please select 2 items from below to serve)
- Anti Pasto platter to include Olives, cured meats, Mediterranean frittata, marinated vegetables, dips and grilled Turkish bread
- Sundried tomato, basil & brie quiche (v)
- Assorted sushi served with wasabi & soy
- Cambodian beef salad, gem lettuce, lime and chilli dressing (gf)
- Rosemary baked chicken: pear, roquette, sherry mayo (gf)
- Falafel, quinoa, radish edamame, chilli citrus dressing (gf)(vg)
- Wasabi & black sesame chicken, soy mayo, coleslaw (gf)
- Thyme baked salmon, cucumber, greens, dill, salad crema (gf)
- Crispy prosciutto, cos, green beans olives, salsa verde (gf)
- Mushrooms, lemon and Mt Zero lentil salad (gf)(vg)
Coffee, Tea & Beverage Upgrades
Arrival Tea & Coffee Buffet
Beraldo coffee & Yarra Valley Tea $3.50 per person
Nespresso coffee and Yarra Valley Tea Buffet
Nespresso (Commercial) coffee machines and Yarra Valley Tea $7 per person
Maximum event size for Nespresso 100 people
Espresso Barista Coffee Cart
Serving espresso coffee, Yarra Valley Tea & 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 (gf)
- Crispy skinned salmon, green herb crust, sage and lemon butter sauce
- Thai green chicken curry (gf)
- Herb and lemon crumbed chicken pieces with chipotle mayonnaise
- Chargrilled beef, Asado style, parsley chimchurri sauce (gf)
- Lamb & pinenut kofta with quince glaze(gf)
- Ligurian style rockling, olives, tomatoes, oregano, lemon and olive oil (gf)
- Roasted pumpkin and ricotta ravioli, feta, sage and roquette sauce (v)
- Vegetarian paella: slow roasted capsicum ragu, paprika, green peas, parsley & roasted garlic (gf) (v)
Sides – Choice of three side options
Salad
- Tatsoi, charred grain, Yarra Valley Persian fetta, caramelised onion, parsley vinaigrette (gf)(v)
- Cos leaves, radish, mint, with citrus dressing (gf)(v)(vg)
- Salad greens, balsamic vinaigrette, cucumber, tomato (gf)(v)(vg)
- Roquette, toasted pine nuts & parmesan salad (gf)(v)
- Asian style coleslaw, wasabi soy mayonnaise (gf)(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 (gf)(v)
- Seeded mustard green beans (gf)(v)
- Roast sweet potato and pumpkin(V)
- Zucchini, squash with lemon butter dressing (gf)(v)
- Heirloom roast vegetables (gf)(v)
- Chargrilled corn with lime (gf)(v)
- Coriander rice pilaf (gf)(v)
(gf) gluten free (v) vegetarian (vg) vegan option
Corporate Boardroom Lunch Menu
Unique boardroom catering, delivering an appropriate level of service; your choice of two dishes, served alternately to your guests.
Pricing Options
Pricing Structure 2018 | 2019
Entree | Main per person (2.5 hour service period) 65
Main | Dessert per person (2.5 hour service period) 65
Entree | Main | Dessert per person (3 hour service period) 75
Canape Option 4 canapes- per person 13.50
Inclusions | Qualified chef, crockery, cutlery, place setting set up and premium disposable napkin
Selection of two items per course served as an alternative drop
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 (gf)
Warm heirloom baby vegetable, spiced carrot puree, poached egg, snow pea shoots (gf)
Lamb beignet, crusted lamb loin, lentil cassoulet, pea & mint puree (gf)
Bouillon of forest mushroom and crème fraiche with Pedro Ximenez (gf,v)
Main
Braised five spiced beef cheek, bok choy, ginger, chilli and Vietnamese mint spiked jus (gf)
Pork cutlet, sage crust, olive caper berry, shallot and artichoke briagole
Swordfish, smoked potato, buttered spinach, red pepper sauce (gf)
Lamb cutlet, dukkah, pinenut kofta, sumac, chickpea, sweet potato and yoghurt (gf)
Goats cheese tart tatin, roquette Spanish onion salad (v)
Chicken breast, sweet corn puree, liver pate smear, popcorn shoots, frisee and cognac jus (gf)
Dessert
Dark chocolate fondant, lavender vanilla cream, raspberries
Spiced panna cotta tart, poached pear & saffron essence (gf)
Vanilla mille-feuille, rhubarb compote & earl grey syrup
Steamed ginger & apple pudding, maple cream, oat, cardamom & ‘speculaas’ crumble
Rich chocolate mousse, coverture crumbs, citrus syrup (gf)
(gf) gluten free (v) vegetarian (vg) vegan option
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 2019 and subject to change without notice. All pricing will be confirmed upon confirmation of your event.
Drop-Off Catering Menus
Fresh corporate catering conveniently delivered to your door, on disposable recyclable platters, for no fuss clean up.
Breakfast/brunch
Croissants, preserves, French butter (v) 7.00
Coconut, ginger & pineapple muesli cups, spiced yoghurt (v)(gf) 4.40
French toast: brioche, rhubarb compote, cinnamon mascarpone (v) 5.50
BLT; herb focaccia, bacon, lettuce, tomato & relish 8.50
Vegetarian option avocado, lettuce & tomato (v)
“grants crust” English muffins: herbed scrambled eggs, bacon: or balsamic mushrooms (v) 8.50
BBQ corn cakes, capsicum relish (v)(vg)(gf) 4.00
Caramelised leek & brie tarts, date relish (v) 7.50
Smoked salmon bagels, cream cheese, dill & capers 7.50
Breakfast Packages
Option 1 Assorted Danish pastries, fruit and chocolate muffins, seasonal fruit platters 11.00 per person
Option 2: Assorted danishes (v), seasonal fruit skewers (v) and Croissants; ham, cheese & tomato
or sumac roasted tomato & Yarra Valley Persian feta (v) 15.00 per person
Option 3: Yoghurt pot; pineapple ginger, coconut & granola crumble, BLT focaccia or avocado, lettuce and tomato focaccia (v) 15.00 per person
Option 4: Fruit platter, Grants English muffins; herbed scrambled eggs & bacon, balsamic mushrooms & tomatoes or balsamic mushrooms, avocado & mascarpone (v) 16.50 per person
Morning & Afternoon Tea Selections
– (Minimum order 10 serves per item) Price per item
Chocolate and fruit muffins medium 4.00
Assorted Danish pastries 4.00
Apple, cranberry & muesli bread, maple butter 4.00
Rosemary & Yarra Valley feta buttermilk scones, paprika butter 4.00
Cocoa, honey date & oatmeal bar (v)(vg)(gf) 4.00
Assorted slices (GF, options available on request) 4.30
Bacon, cheddar & chive savory muffin, tomato relish 4.00
Fruit skewers, mint rosewater syrup (v)(vg) 3.00
Rocky road (gf)(v) 3.00
Mini jam donuts 3.00
Cinnamon donuts 2.50
Petite eclairs 4.30
Mini lamingtons 4.00
Baked mushroom and prosciutto tarts 5.20
Freshly baked lemonade scones with cream & jam 3.50
Citrus tarts 4.00
Lunch Selections
(Minimum order 10 serves per item)
Gourmet sandwiches 4 points, assorted fillings (V) 7.00
Gourmet wraps, variety of fillings (V) 8.50
Gourmet baguettes, variety of fillings (V) 8.50
Open tartlets| Chorizo capsicum 8.50
|Smoked salmon caper chervil
|Eggplant zucchini rocket pesto
Chicken schnitzel sliders, sriracha mayo & coleslaw 9.00
Moroccan lamb pita, harissa mayo, parsley quinoa tabouli 9.00
Individual salads
Minimum order of 5 per salad, served in disposable cups 9.50
Cambodian beef salad, gem lettuce, lime and chilli dressing (gf)
Rosemary baked chicken: pear, roquette, sherry mayo (gf)
Falafel, quinoa, radish edamame, chilli citrus dressing (gf)(vg)
Wasabi & black sesame chicken, soy mayo, coleslaw (gf)
Thyme baked salmon, cucumber, greens, dill, salad crema (gf)
Crispy prosciutto, cos, green beans olives, salsa verde (gf)
Mushrooms, lemon and Mt Zero lentil salad (gf)(vg)
Hot Lunch Selections
(Minimum order 10 pieces per item, delivered cold in foil trays ready for you to heat)
Gourmet beef pies with tomato relish 4.00
Basil and parmesan croquettes, saffron aioli 3.50
Pork & fennel sausage roll; caramelized onion & tomato relish 3.50
Sundried tomato, basil & brie quiche (v) 3.50
Ricotta & spinach filo parcels, kashundi (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 of 30 points (7.5 sandwiches), flavours including 60
Herbed chicken, smoked salmon, fresh turkey breast & vegetarian options
Potato & chive hash, smoked salmon, chervil, crème fraiche (gf) 90
Caramelised onion & Yarra Valley Persian fetta tarts (v) 90
Seasonal fruit platter (Serves approx) 50
Trio of house made dips with Turkish bread platter (Serves 10) 40
Rosemary & Yarra Valley feta buttermilk scones, paprika butter 90
Anti Pasto platter to include Olives, cured meats, Mediterranean frittata, marinated vegetables, dips and grilled Turkish bread, serves 10-15 people 85
Australian Cheese Platter: brie, aged vintage cheddar, blue, dried fruits, water crackers and fruit loaf, serves 10-15 people 85
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 2019 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 catering packages
to suit any occasion.
We have a strong regional focus supporting our Yarra Valley neighbours.
Our beverage catering 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 21 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
Coldstone Sparkling Pinot Chardonnay, King Valley
Raise the Bar
2 Hours 28 per person
6 for every hour thereafter
Beer and cider- Select 2 to serve
Corona, Stella Artois, Carlton draught, Asahi Super Dry, Coopers Pale Ale, Napoleone Premium Apple Cider
Sparkling & White varieties – Select 2
Paul Louis Blanc de Blancs Sparkling, Loire, France
Pizzini Prosecco, King Valley, Vic
Coldstone Sparkling Pinot Chardonnay, King Valley, Vic
Yering Station Village Chardonnay, Yarra Valley, Vic
Pizzini Pinot Grigio, King Valley, Vic
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
Yering Farm, Farmyard Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley, Vic
Paynes Rise Redlands Shiraz, Yarra Valley, Vic
Bulong Estate Cabernet Merlot, Yarra Valley, Vic
Reschke ‘Rufus’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra, SA
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
Inclusions | Qualified chef, crockery, cutlery, buffet ware and disposable napkins.
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 2019 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 Options
Pricing Structure 2018 | 2019
Entree | Main per person (2.5 hour service period) 65
Main | Dessert per person (2.5 hour service period) 65
Entree | Main | Dessert per person (3 hour service period) 75
Canape Option 4 canapes- per person 13.50
Inclusions | Qualified chef, crockery, cutlery, place setting set up and premium disposable napkin
Selection of two items per course served as an alternative drop
Entrée
- Salmon, four pillars gin jelly, cucumber, radish pickle, foliette salad (gf)
- Ricotta and sundried tomato tortellini, swiss mushroom & saffron cream (v)
- Charcoal dusted prawns, chorizo, tomato salsa, thyme beurre blanc
- Porterhouse chargrilled, spiced crust, avocado, chilli crema, shallot marmalade & herb salad (gf)
- Lamb cutlet, petite lamb wellington, parsnip puree, pea ragu, drizzled nasturtium oil
- Roasted romas, torn buffalo mozzarella, rucola, roquette, white balsamic pearls (gf)(vg)
Main
- Chicken breast, Kelly’s cider glazed, cumin, edamame, sweet potato puree (gf)
- Kingfish fillet, sherry roasted onion tartlet & cos leaves
- Slow roasted pork belly, Lao’s tomato relish, sesame, fried shallot, soy glazed bok choy (gf)
- Lamb shoulder, Basque parsley crust, Pedro Ximenez reduction, roasted baby vegetables (gf)
- Slow braised beef cheek, crispy potato terrine, mustard roasted Dutch carrots (gf)
- Oregano crusted Salmon, pomegranate glazed broccolini, kipflers, thyme dressing (gf)
- Swiss mushrooms, balsamic glaze, green pea puree, heirloom baby vegetables (vg)
Dessert
- Dark chocolate fondant, lavender vanilla cream, raspberries
- Spiced panna cotta tart, poached pear & saffron essence
- Vanilla mille-feuille, rhubarb compote & earl grey syrup
- Steamed ginger & apple pudding, maple cream, oat, cardamom & ‘speculaas’ crumble
- Rich chocolate mousse, coverture crumbs, citrus syrup
(gf) gluten free (v) vegetarian (vg) vegan option
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 2019 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 Options
5 Canape selections (1.5 hour service period) 21
8 Canape selections (2 hour service period) 33
10 Canape selections (2 hour service period) 39
Plentiful offering (3 hour service period) 51
Selection of 10 canapes and your choice of either one substantial item OR a Street food stand. This package will ensure your guests are well and truly full.
Inclusions| Qualified chef, crockery, cutlery & napkins
Cold Selection
- Sage pikelet, gorgonzola & honey roasted pears
- Yarra Valley Persian fetta tart, caramelised onion & thyme (v)
- Sushi| Teriyaki chicken| Seaweed salad (v)|Tofu & vegetable (vg)(v), with soy dressing & wasabi (gf)
- Capsicum sopa, chorizo crème, paprika dust (gf)
- Chicken Caesar tart, cos, crisp bacon, parmesan spiked mayo
- Charred beef, Grant’s crust brioche, herb mayo
- Bruschetta cone, Roma, onion & basil, balsamic deglaze (vg) (v)
- Kingfish ceviche tortilla, avocado crema, tomato & cilantro dressing (gf)
- Duck, shitake & water chestnut tartlet, szechuan soy
- Potato & chive hash, smoked salmon, chervil, crème fraiche (gf)
Hot Selection
- Basil & parmesan croquettes, saffron aioli (v)
- Lamb, sumac & pine nut kofta, citrus yoghurt & mint pomegranate (gf)
- Prawn twister, coriander, wasabi soy mayo
- Pork & fennel sausage roll, caramelised onion & tomato relish
- BBQ corn & green pea fritter, tomato kasundi (vg)(v)
- Gyoza| Pork | Chicken & ginger | Vegetable (v) with Vietnamese mint & soy dipping sauce
- Chorizo & tiger prawn skewer with romesco (gf)
- Essential fried chicken, panko crust & chipotle spiked mayo
- Gourmet local beef pies, tomato relish
- Korean BBQ chicken skewer, ponzu dressing (gf)
- Cider roasted pork belly pizza, caramelised onions & BBQ sauce
- Spiced pumpkin, goat’s cheese pizza, sweet capsicum salsa (v)
- Pork belly bao, pickled carrot, cucumber, mint, coriander & sriracha mayo
Desserts
- Chocolate mousse cones, salted caramel shards
- Strawberry tartlets, vanilla crème, mint lavender syrup
- Rocky road ”stones” (gf)
- Petite friands, lime cream (gf)
- Raspberry Eton mess cheesecake (gf)
Substantial items & Street food stands
Substantial Items
– Add a Substantial dish to your menu. 14 per person
- Fish & chips, flathead fillets, crispy kipflers, Spanish paprika mayo
- Slow braised beef cheek, mustard spiked mash, parsley crust (gf)
- Wasabi & black sesame chicken breast, soy mayo, coriander, coleslaw (gf)
- “Anytime” bacon, scrambled egg, brioche roll, tomato relish, sweet onions Or Spiced pumpkin, sweet potato & kasundi (veg option)
- Snapper, coconut tamarind curry, snow peas, radish, chilli sambal (gf)
- Pasta ”conchiglie” extra large shell, stuffed with 4 hour bolognaise, parmesan & oregano Or Forest mushroom, truffle oil & pecorino(v)
(gf) gluten free (v) vegetarian (vg) vegan option
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 per person
Wasabi & soy Themed hawker cart, bamboo steamer baskets & Asian lanterns
Gyoza| Pork | Chicken & ginger | Vegetable (v) with soy ponzu
Sushi| Teriyaki chicken| Seaweed salad (v)|Tofu & vegetable (vg)(v), with soy dressing & wasabi (gf)
Bun gua bao, pork belly, shitake yakitori, pickled veg
Vietnamese prawn & crab, nori cones
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 (v)
Salsa: roasted corn, tomato with coriander crab, avocado & lime (v) (gf)
Born in the USA Themed with USA stars & stripes pop up stand
Pulled pork & beef sliders served in a Grant’s organic corn roll
Mushroom slider served in a Grant’s organic roll (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) (gf)
(gf) gluten free (v) vegetarian (vg) vegan option
Sweet surrender Themed with pretty pink gingham cloths, high tea stands
Macaroons; ’chou chou’ profiteroles; petite eclairs
Chocolate mousse cones
Rocky road ‘stones’ (gf)
Assorted petite fours
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 2019 and subject to change without notice. All pricing will be confirmed upon confirmation of your event.
Street Food Menu
Guests mingle around themed hawker stands, serving authentic street food inspired by iconic international dishes from around the globe!
Pricing Options
(There is a minimum number of 80 people for this menu)
3 street food stands and roaming finger food (3 hour service period) 49
4 street food stands and roaming finger food (3 hour service period) 58
Inclusions| Qualified chef, crockery, cutlery, buffet ware as required & napkins
Wasabi & soy
Themed hawker cart, bamboo steamer baskets & Asian lanterns
Gyoza| Pork | Chicken & ginger | Vegetable (v) with soy ponzu
Sushi| Teriyaki chicken| Seaweed salad (v)|Tofu & vegetable (vg)(v), with soy dressing & wasabi (gf)
Bun gua bao, pork belly, shitake yakitori, pickled veg
Vietnamese prawn & crab, nori cones
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 (v)
Salsa: roasted corn, tomato with coriander crab, avocado & lime (vg)(v)(gf)
Born in the USA
Themed with USA stars & stripes pop up stand
Pulled pork & beef sliders served in a Grant’s organic corn roll
Mushroom slider served in a Grant’s organic roll (v)
Buon Appetito
Themed red gingham cloths, pizza paddles, knotted gingham bunting squares
Anti pasta, verdure, pepitas with goats cheese (v)
Crisp salami, prosciutto chips, romesco (gf)
Chicken & eggplant parmigiana
Margherita pizzas (v)
Crumbed tortellini, basil Napoli (v)
New York deli
Styled with all the glitz and glamour of the Big Apple
Mini Rueben’s
Bagels smoked salmon, cream cheese & dill
Mini hot dogs, with relish & pickles
Chicken Waldorf salad (gf)
Pretzels (v)
Aussie BBQ
Build your own Aussie BBQ plate
Sausages, onions & sauce(gf)
Burgers with tomato relish(gf)
Sticky chicken wings (gf)
Coleslaw (gf) (v)
White bread rolls
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)(gf)(vg)
Old buoy
Themed with heavy sailor’s ropes and cray pots
Deep fried fish and chips served with lemon wedge in cones with choice of tartar sauce, garlic aioli or tomato relish, Polenta chips available for vegetarian option
Southern fried chicken stand
Styled with gingham cloths, hessian, Southern American style
Buttermilk marinated, spicy fried chicken, hot sauce, gravy & coleslaw
Mushroom & tofu marinated in spicy sauce for vegetarian option (v)
Sweet surrender
Themed with pretty pink gingham cloths, high tea stands
Macaroons| ’chou chou’ profiteroles | petite eclairs |Chocolate mousse cones
Rocky road ‘stones’(gf) | Assorted petite fours
Upgrade bravo gelato ‘bambino’ cones $4.50 upgrade per person
(gf) gluten free (v) vegetarian (vg) vegan option
Pricing based on minimum numbers of 80 people, surcharges apply for smaller groups.
Waiting staff, surcharges & additional equipment fees may apply, but vary depending upon locations & circumstances.
Shared Platter Menu
Platters served to each table, ensuring your guests have a variety of menu options, encouraging interaction amongst your guests.
Pricing Options 2018 /2019
Selection of two items per course served as an alternative drop
Entrée | Main – per person (2.5 hour service period) 65
Main | Dessert – per person (2.5 hour service period) 65
Entrée | Main | Dessert – per person (3 hour service period) 74
Canapé Option: Add Canapés Selection- per person 13.50
Inclusions | Qualified chef, crockery, cutlery, place setting set up and napkins
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.
Canape’s
1/2 hour chef’s selection of canape’s on arrival, 4 pieces
Entrée
Choose one option from the selection below:
Grazing platter
- Salami, prosciutto & pancetta, marinated mixed olives & sundried tomatoes, house made dips, charred & marinated vegetables, herb frittata, crispy Turkish bread & grissini
Tapas platter
(Choose 4 items to serve)
- Chickpea shawarma dip (gf)(vg)
- Chilli prawns (gf)
- Duck & crispy lime chats (gf)
- Cumin spiced lamb kofta (gf)
- BBQ tomato salsa (vg)
- Pickled vegetables, dill fennel dressing (gf)(vg)
- Croquettes with pea, Yarra Valley Persian feta & charred leeks (v)
- Crispy tortellini, romesco sauce (v)
- Balsamic mushrooms, herb stuffing (vg)(gf)
- Nori cone with smoked salmon, soy dressing (gf)
Main
Choose two options below:
- Chargrilled beef, Asado style, parsley & chimichurri sauce (gf)
- Pork loin, sage crust, Sicilian verdure & balsamic jus (gf)
- Salmon fillets, thyme, roquette, spinach, citrus butter dressing (gf)
- Slow braised lamb shoulder, Basque peppers, paprika sauce (gf)
- Chicken breast, Moroccan date crust, pumpkin, sweet potato, torn Turkish bread, mint yoghurt
- Pork belly, five spice crust, sticky soy deglaze, rice noddles coriander, crispy garlic (gf)
- Pasta ”conchiglie”, pasta shells stuffed with forest mushrooms, pecorino, roquette & truffle oil drizzle (v)(vg)
- Kingfish, pico de gallo (salsa), bloody Mary mayo (gf)
Accompaniment: Grant’s dinner rolls served with butter
Sides
Choose two options below
- Rosemary & garlic roasted chat potatoes (v) (vg)
- Salad greens, balsamic vinaigrette, cucumber, Spanish onion, tomato & torn herbs (gf)(v)(vg)
- Heirloom carrots with honey, dill & mustard butter (v) (gf)
- Cos leaves, radish, mint, with citrus dressing (gf)(v)(vg)
- Broccolini, seasonal greens, chickpea sesame dressing (v)(vg)
- Tatsoi, charred grain, Yarra Valley Persian fetta, caramelised onion, parsley vinaigrette (gf) (v)
- Crispy potato salad, lime chilli paprika butter (v) (gf)
- Roquette, parmesan & pine nut salad (v) (gf)
Desserts
Choose two options below:
- Chocolate fondant, raspberry vanilla cream
- Pear tart tartine, burnt honey crema
- Petite pavlova, lime curd (gf)
- Petite macaron cups (gf)
- Rose and pistachio panna cotta tartlets, earl grey syrup
(gf) gluten free (v) vegetarian (vg) vegan option
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 2019 and subject to change without notice. All pricing will be confirmed upon confirmation of your event.
Talk to the experts about your upcoming corporate or office catering event
Our clients
From flawless execution to professional and engaging staff, Essential Catering & Events in Melbourne is a full service caterer, providing a distinctive experience for every event. Together, we will create a professional and memorable corporate or office catering Melbourne event for you and your guests.
All of our menus are handmade in-house utilising fresh local produce and fare from our kitchen garden. Your guests will be satisfied with the large selection of items on offer. Fresh, healthy, delicious corporate catering, Melbourne style!
With over 20 years’ industry experience, catering for a range of diverse events we are confident that you will find our professionalism and commitment invaluable.