Catering FAQ

Why should we choose Hilldale?

The answer is simple - we rock at what we do.  We tailor each event to your specifications and wants.  Each event is personalized to what you want and need.  We are not a cookie cutter caterer, we have a passion for making your event stand out from our fabulous food choices down to the presentation and staging.  We do not have a price list, because each and every event is different.  Pricing also varies on items, so if we get a savings cost from our supplier, we are able to pass that on to you.  Our food and service is top notch from start to finish.  Let us cater you a show stopping event!

What should we do first?

The first step is the contact Sarah  (815-238-5854 or customerservice@hilldaledeli.com ) regarding your date and event.  We book quickly and have dates booked well into the next few years. 

Now What?

Once you contact Sarah and check your date, set up an appointment to sit down and discuss your options.  Can't make it in person, set up a conference call to line up your menu. Due to a crazy schedule that Sarah has, the preference is a conference call after hours to discuss and design your event!

What are your menu options? 

Our menu options are endless.  We offer menu items from simple to sit down formal plated meals.  Make an appointment with Sarah to discuss it.  We tailor each and every event to the wants/needs of the customer.  We prefer the non-cookie cutter approach.  This is yet another reason, Hilldale shines compared to others. We do not offer generalized quotes for pricing, there is too much that is factored in to your event planning that it would be impossible for us to do a generic quote.

How long do I have to make up my mind once the options are discussed?

Once the quote is sent to you, you have 5 business days to accept or reject the quote.  If your catering requires a deposit, the non-refundable deposit is due to hold your date.  If the deposit is not made within the timeline, the date will be opened up to others and your date of choice may not be available if you decide outside the timeline listed above.  

What payment types do you accept?

We accept cash, money order, cashiers check for no additional fees.  If you are using a credit card, 5% of total will be added for this convenience. No checks will be accepted 30 days prior to the event.

Do you include staffing?

When we sit down and determine your staffing needs, we will determine the amount of staff needed for your event type and cost of staffing is $50 per hour, per person (Monday-Saturday), $75 per hour, per person on Sunday. Holiday's (day before, day of, day after) $100 per hour, per person. 

Do you include set-up, Tear down, or delivery?

18% charge of total bill is added for in town events for set-up, tear down, and delivery.  If your event is out of Freeport City Limits, $.65 per mile will be added (round trip) over and above the 18% fee.

What happens if I want to book you, but I have no idea what we want to eat?

Even if you don't have your menu locked down, you need to put a deposit down to hold your date. Events are booked quickly and dates are a hot commodity.  Details can always be finalized later, but your date will be opened up to the public if the deposit is not made to lock it in. If you book for a dinner and decide to change to a smaller menu, there are cancellation fees outlined in the contract.

What if my date is a year away?

Your date, and many others, is a year away.  Book early and lock it in.  We are amazing at what we do and it shows!

Need some additional help? Check  out our videos on TikTok! There are tons of helpful tips and tricks to help you plan your event! https://www.tiktok.com/hilldalerockscatering