Two different ways to feed people
A traditional caterer brings food that’s usually prepared in a kitchen, served by staff at a buffet or at tables, often with crockery and cutlery. A food van, such as a fish and chip van, cooks in the vehicle and serves from a hatch. Both have their place, and many weddings use both: a traditional caterer for the meal and a van for the evening.
Food
A traditional caterer can offer a wider menu, several courses and dishes for every diet. A food van does one thing well and cooks it fresh, to order. If you want variety, a caterer wins. If you want hot, fresh, familiar food, a van is hard to beat.
Service and atmosphere
A sit-down meal is formal and keeps everyone in one place. A van is relaxed: people get up, queue, chat and eat where they like. For a party or wedding evening, that informality is often the point.
Space and equipment
Traditional catering may need a kitchen or prep area, tables, crockery and staff. A van needs a level spot to park and room for a queue. In a field, a car park or a garden without a kitchen, a van is often simpler.
Cost
Plated meals usually cost more per head because of staff, equipment and courses. A food van has fewer extras, but has a minimum charge because of the van and travel. Compare quotes on the same basis. See what a fish and chip van costs.
Which to choose
- Formal wedding breakfast: traditional caterer
- Wedding evening food: food van
- Garden party or birthday: either; a van needs less from you
- Staff lunch: food van, especially for shift teams
- Wake: either; a van is simple and comforting
Questions to help you decide
- Do you need a formal sit-down meal, or would people prefer to mingle?
- Is there a kitchen at the venue, or would a caterer need to bring everything?
- Is there a level spot outside where a van could park?
- How many dietary needs do you have, and how complex are they?
- What’s your budget per head?
Using both
Many events use a traditional caterer and a food van for different parts of the day. A wedding might have a seated meal in the afternoon and a fish and chip van at night. A corporate event might have a buffet for guests and a van for staff after the event. Each does what it does best.
Quick answers
Can a food van do a sit-down meal?
It can serve to tables with help, but it’s at its best served from the hatch.
Can we have both?
Yes. It’s common at weddings: a caterer for the meal and a van for the evening.
Planning an event? Tell us about it and we’ll check the date and send a quote.