Local Caterers Brace for Holiday Rush with Record Demand

UPDATE: Local caterers are preparing for an unprecedented surge in holiday meal orders as families turn to professionals for Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts. With the holiday season in full swing, caterers like Market Fresh and Bingemans Hospitality Inc. are reporting record increases in demand, making this a crucial moment for those planning their festive gatherings.

Catering operations are ramping up significantly. Market Fresh in Guelph is set to serve over 1,500 holiday meals this season, with grab-and-go traditional roast turkey meals hitting shelves as early as this week. Chef Arron Carley states, “We are in the kitchen all day, roasting and cooking. It’s a busy time for us.”

Meanwhile, Bingemans Hospitality Inc. in Kitchener-Waterloo is working tirelessly, processing over 1,000 turkeys and preparing more than 10,000 pounds of potatoes and vegetables for holiday events. Executive Chef Jeremy Langemann emphasized the scale of their operation, stating, “Holiday season is another entire season based on the volume that we do.”

This year alone, Bingemans produced 10,000 plates in just five days from December 8 to 12, with preparations ongoing for their Grand Christmas Day Buffet featuring turkey and prime rib. Reservations must be made by noon on December 18.

Chef Allan McGlone of The Travelling Chef also reports a significant uptick in holiday orders, nearly doubling his bookings to around 700 meals. He highlights the growing trend of families opting for catered meals, particularly among older adults and busy young professionals. “We take our responsibility to your table seriously,” McGlone says, underscoring the emotional connection with clients during the holiday season.

For those considering catered meals, it’s important to act quickly. Market Fresh’s catering service is available from December 20 to 23, with pick-up options for families, while The Travelling Chef has a cut-off for orders on December 19, ensuring a timely delivery on December 23.

As the clock ticks down to the holidays, these catering businesses are not just feeding families; they are ensuring that the spirit of the season is preserved through shared meals. With their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, local caterers are poised to make this holiday season unforgettable for many households.

Stay tuned for further updates as we follow the catering rush and the culinary efforts to bring joy to holiday tables across the region.