What does halal mean for event catering?
Halal means permitted under Islamic rules. For food it covers more than avoiding pork: meat must come from an animal slaughtered by halal rules, and alcohol, including cooking wine, mirin and some sauces, gelatin and lard are avoided. Cross-contact with non-halal food in the kitchen also matters, which is why certification is about the kitchen and the supply chain, not only the dish.
What do we say, and what do we not claim?
- We do not claim halal or kosher certification, and our standard menu is not certified.
- If you need certified halal food, say so in the request. The team tells you honestly whether it can be arranged for your date.
- We will not offer a pork-free dish and call it halal.
- Anything the kitchen cannot confirm is said plainly in the quote.
What can be arranged on request?
- Vegetarian dishes, which many Muslim guests choose when halal meat is not available. Check that they do not contain alcohol, gelatin or lard.
- Seafood and egg based dishes, if the guest accepts them.
- Labelled dishes and separate serving spoons.
- Boxes marked with the guest's name and diet, packed apart from other food.
What should you ask your Muslim guests?
| Question | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Is certified halal required, or is vegetarian acceptable? | Decides whether a vegetarian menu works |
| Is seafood acceptable? | Some guests only accept certain seafood |
| Is alcohol in cooking acceptable? | Many sauces use cooking wine or mirin |
| Any allergies as well? | Name the exact ingredient |
| Do you need prayer time in the schedule? | Helps with the food-ready time |
How do you plan an event with some Muslim guests?
- Ask in the invitation, not on the day.
- Send the counts and the answers to the team with your request.
- Offer a clearly labelled vegetarian main so no guest is left with only sides.
- Tell the team the food-ready time so food arrives after any prayer break.