Dining Services Catering

Who should I contact for catering services?

Your initial contact person will be our Catering Staff Assistant Meagan LaClair at 413-542-2842 or email mlaclair@amherst.edu. Meagan will discuss and assess your catering needs and either take your order at that time or refer you to one or our managers if additional menu and logistical planning is required. In addition, our Staff Assistant is the on-campus contact for room reservations in Lewis Sebring.

For reservations in the Valentine Conference and Terrace Rooms please contact Valentine@amherst.edu.

What are the prices for catering services?

The prices listed on our menus are current. Dinner Menu items may be subject to change due to the potential for seasonal market fluctuations and are indicated as such. Organizations wishing to utilize tax exempt status must provide us with a valid number during the event planning process. An additional service charge will be added to certain menu packages when guest counts fall below indicated numbers. At times it may be necessary for Amherst College Catering to seek supplemental service staff from outside vendors which may result in additional charges. We also reserve the right to transfer charges or request direct vendor payment for needed equipment rentals such as service ware, rental vehicles, food preparation or service tents, grills and other needed items.

The prices on our menu do not include 6.25 % State and .75 % Local Sales Tax which is applied to Non Amherst College or Five College Groups

When do I schedule my event?

AC Catering requires at least five (5) business day’s notice when scheduling standard events such as breakfast, lunch and refreshment pick-ups and deliveries. In addition, it is very helpful for all parties involved if our customers provide us with the time frame available for delivery, set-up and clean-up of catering orders based on the venue reserved for the event.

For detailed and involved events such as dinners and receptions requiring service staff we ask that ten (10) business day's notice be provided. We realize that certain situations arise where our requested notice cannot be provided.

We always strive to work with our customers in these instances but reserve the right to limit certain menu and service options due to staffing concerns or product availability.

We also reserve the right to block out certain days or time periods when the volume of events precludes us from providing timely service for our customers that meets our quality and food safety standards.

How do catering deliveries and setup work?

Please provide your Catering Contact with all the set-up and logistical details when arranging delivered catering orders.

• Specify the location, room, time of delivery, any details regarding scheduling or room occupancy, the end time of the event and any further details regarding clean-up.
• Information regarding table/chair set-ups and room configuration in order that the accurate amount of tablecloths are included with your order.
• Linens for seating tables are encouraged and available from AC Catering at an additional cost. Consult with your Catering Contact to be sure we have adequate table space for what was ordered. Appropriately sized table cloths and skirting for food tables as well as compostable paper supplies and eating utensils are included in the price of your order.

Amherst College Catering strives to promote sustainable composting and recycling practices and works with our campus partners in Facilities and Grounds to provide only supplies that meet these objectives.

An additional service charge may be added to deliveries when guest numbers fall below indicated numbers. Please consult our menu for applicable charges.

Do you do plated meals, buffets and receptions?

Amherst College Catering offers a wide array of menu and service choices for more formal occasions that require china service both within our event spaces at Valentine Hall and at many other campus locations. Please consult our menu for food and beverage options and for information regarding planning, logistics and billing. In addition to our standard offerings we are always willing to customize menus to your needs and specifications.

What about dietary and/or allergen concerns?

Please communicate the pertinent dietary, allergen and intolerance issues of your guests with your catering contact well in advance of your event so that specific accommodations can be made. Amherst College Catering makes every effort to provide signage and labeling of all major allergens on all of our catering deliveries and on buffet and display settings at staffed events.

Do you provide alcohol service?

Amherst College Catering offers a wide selection of beer, wine and spirits for all occasions and a variety of service options. Staffing and licensing fees may be applicable under certain circumstances, please consult your catering contact for information.