What types of events do HLB Catering specialise in?

At HLB Catering, we are proud to provide exceptional service for a diverse range of events. Our expertise includes elegant weddings, professional corporate functions, vibrant private parties, sophisticated cocktail parties, memorable birthday celebrations, and other special occasions. Whether you need Melbourne caterers for an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, our expert team can create a customised menu to perfectly suit your event. We are dedicated to making every occasion in Melbourne, Australia, truly unforgettable.

What regions in Victoria do you serve?

HLB Catering proudly serves Melbourne and its bustling suburbs, the scenic Mornington Peninsula, the picturesque Yarra Valley, and various locations throughout regional Victoria. As leading Melbourne caterers, we are committed to delivering top-quality catering services wherever your event is located. If you’re searching for “caterers near me” or specifically “catering Melbourne,” please contact us to confirm if we cover your exact location.

Can HLB Catering accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies?

Yes, HLB Catering is highly experienced in accommodating a variety of dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, nut allergies, halal, and other special dietary needs. When planning your event, please inform us of any specific dietary concerns, and our chefs will craft delicious and safe options. Please note: While we take every precaution to avoid cross-contamination in our Melbourne kitchen, our facility handles a wide range of ingredients. This means that traces of any ingredients may be present in any meal. Although we do our best, we cannot guarantee that our food will be 100% free of specific allergens. We appreciate your understanding and encourage open communication regarding severe allergies.

Do you offer customised menus for events?

Absolutely! HLB Catering specialises in creating bespoke, customised menus that truly reflect your unique tastes, preferences, and event theme. Whether you’re meticulously planning your wedding catering in Melbourne or require creative catering for a corporate gala, we are dedicated to bringing your culinary vision to life. Our experienced Melbourne caterers excel at crafting unique and memorable menus for every occasion.

How far in advance should I book HLB Catering for my event?

To secure your preferred date with HLB Catering, especially during peak seasons (such as spring weddings or the festive period), we highly recommend booking as early as possible. For weddings and larger events, booking at least 6 to 12 months in advance is ideal. However, as one of the most flexible catering companies in Melbourne, Australia, we can sometimes accommodate last-minute requests depending on our availability. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us to check your date!

Do you offer menu tastings?

Yes, we offer exclusive tastings at HLB Catering to help you confidently finalise your menu choices. This is particularly beneficial for those planning wedding catering or significant events. Canapé Tastings: Contact us for more info. Three-Course Meal Tastings: Available for a fee. Should you decide to confirm your event with us after a meal tasting, a portion of the tasting cost will be credited towards your final bill. Contact us to arrange your tasting session.

What is typically included in your catering packages?

Our catering packages at HLB Catering are fully customised to meet your specific needs. They generally include food, professional staff, essential serving equipment, and efficient setup. Whether you’re looking for Melbourne caterers for an elegant wedding, a lively cocktail party, or any other event, we can also arrange additional services like bar staff, table settings, linen, and more, depending on your comprehensive requirements. Your personalised quote will detail everything included.

How do I confirm my booking with HLB Catering?

Your event booking with HLB Catering is officially confirmed once the agreed-upon booking deposit has been made and confirmed by our team. This crucial step secures your event date on our calendar, ensuring that your chosen caterers in Melbourne, Australia, are ready to deliver an exceptional culinary experience for your special day.

What is your cancellation policy?

HLB Catering understands that plans can change. We offer a full refund for cancellations made before 21 days from your event date. For comprehensive details regarding our cancellation terms and other policies, please refer to our full Terms and Conditions page.

Do you provide catering specifically for corporate events in Melbourne?

Yes, HLB Catering offers a comprehensive range of sophisticated catering options tailored for corporate events across Melbourne. We provide everything from simple service catering for daily office meetings to formal and fine dining services for galas and conferences. Our expert Melbourne caterers can provide breakfast, morning or afternoon tea, lunches, and dinners, meticulously tailored to your corporate needs. Whether it’s a small boardroom meeting or a large conference, we excel at creating diverse menus including impressive grazing tables, elegant buffets, delightful finger foods, exquisite canapés, and formal sit-down meals. We are proud to be among the top corporate catering companies in Melbourne.

Do you offer alcohol and beverage services?

HLB Catering offers comprehensive beverage packages, including alcohol, meticulously tailored to complement your event. From a curated selection of fine wines and local craft beers to expertly mixed cocktail bars, we can provide everything you need to keep your guests refreshed and delighted. If you would like us just to serve your own drinks, that’s completely fine – our staff is certified RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol).

Can HLB Catering cater for outdoor events in Melbourne?

Absolutely! HLB Catering is fully equipped and highly experienced in catering for outdoor events across Melbourne and regional Victoria, whether it’s a romantic garden wedding, a lively corporate picnic, or a large outdoor festival. We understand the unique logistics of outdoor setups. To ensure a seamless experience, we partner with reputable local hiring companies. If you require marquees, additional tables, chairs, lighting, or any other equipment for your beautiful outdoor setup, we can efficiently organise it for you, providing a complete solution. As trusted Melbourne caterers, we ensure your outdoor event is as seamless and successful as any indoor one.

How much finger food/canapés will be served at my event?

At HLB Catering, we pride ourselves on generous portions to ensure all your guests are well-fed and satisfied. For events featuring canapés or finger food, we typically serve an unlimited amount for the duration of the event, ensuring a continuous flow of delicious bites. You won’t have to worry about anyone going hungry! Our caterers are dedicated to ensuring that all your guests are well-fed and satisfied, making your cocktail party or reception truly enjoyable.

Can I purchase catering for delivery only without staff?

Yes, you certainly can! HLB Catering offers a convenient section of our website dedicated to online sales for delivery-only catering. This is perfect if you don’t require our staff on-site and prefer to serve the food yourself. Please visit our dedicated online store for a selection of delicious options available for direct order. If you’re looking for something specific not offered in our online store, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly at 8503 7394 or email us at events@hlbcatering.com.au with your request. We’ll be happy to assist you in finding the perfect solution. Alternatively, for a comprehensive quote on any service, simply press the “Request a Quote” button below!

Do you provide all necessary serving equipment (chafing dishes, platters, serving utensils)?

Yes, our catering packages usually include all the essential serving equipment. If needed, we can also bring small commercial equipment like a 10-amp oven, benchtop deep fryer, and electric burners — all at no extra cost.

Do you provide tables, chairs, linens, crockery, cutlery, and glassware, or do we need to rent them separately?

We typically arrange catering equipment such as chafing dishes and serving ware. For tables, chairs, linens, crockery, cutlery, and glassware, these are usually arranged through your venue or a hire partner. We’re happy to guide you on this as needed.

What are your payment terms and deposit policy?

Payment terms are outlined clearly in your quote. Usually, full payment is required 21 days before your event date. Deposits and payment schedules are tailored to your booking and confirmed at the time of enquiry.

What is your policy on gratuity (tips) for your staff?

While gratuity (tips) are common in some countries, they are not expected or required in Australia. However, if you wish to show appreciation to our team for exceptional service, it is entirely at your discretion.

How is the food transported to the venue, and how is it kept fresh/at the correct temperature?

We transport all food in refrigerated vans, or insulated containers designed to maintain the correct temperature and freshness. Our team ensures your food arrives looking and tasting its best, ready to serve.

What equipment and facilities are required at the venue for your catering setup?

We work closely with you and the venue to understand setup requirements. Generally, access to power and a prep area is needed. For certain events, we can bring additional small commercial equipment to support your menu.

Are you licensed and insured?

Yes, HLB Catering is fully licensed and insured, ensuring peace of mind and compliance with all legal and safety requirements.

Can you provide references or testimonials from previous clients?

Absolutely! You can read reviews from our happy clients on Google Reviews.

What sets HLB Catering apart from other caterers in Melbourne?

At HLB Catering, we’re not just here to deliver food — we bring decades of hospitality experience, impeccable service, and a genuine partnership approach. From the moment you enquire, we work closely with you to bring your vision to life. Our focus is on quality in every detail — restaurant-level food, seamless service, and thoughtful event execution. It’s a complete experience, not just a menu.

Do you use local and/or seasonal ingredients?

Yes, whenever possible, we source local and seasonal produce to ensure freshness and support local suppliers, while enhancing the flavour and sustainability of your event.

What happens to leftover food after the event?

At the end of each event, we return any remaining food to our commercial kitchen, in line with Victoria’s food health and safety regulations. This is an important protocol we follow to ensure food safety once it’s outside our care. That said, we’re happy to leave certain safe-to-serve items behind — such as petit fours or already prepared uneaten canapés — when appropriate. Rest assured, no one goes hungry at an HLB event. We serve unlimited canapés during your booked service period, so there’s always plenty to enjoy.

Feast Shared Platter Catering Melbourne

Discover Exceptional Shared Dining with Our Feast Shared Platter Catering Services

Feast Shared Platters Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula, Yarra Valley | Premium Communal Dining Catering $90pp | Weddings, Corporate Events, Celebrations | HLB Catering

Feast Shared Platters Melbourne & Regional Victoria

Premium Communal Dining from $90pp

Shared platters are the best way to get people talking. Generous, beautifully presented dishes land in the middle of the table and guests help themselves, which creates that relaxed, social energy that’s hard to replicate with plated service. Handcrafted and full of variety, there’s something for everyone. Perfect for weddings, engagements, birthdays, and corporate events.

Every package starts with sliced artisan bread and butter on arrival, followed by a chef’s choice of canapes served on platters at each table. Then your chosen mains and sides hit the table. After the mains, our wait staff pass through with dessert on trays to finish the night on a sweet note.

Melbourne • Mornington Peninsula • Yarra Valley • Macedon Ranges • Regional Victoria

15+

Years Experience

200+

Events Annually

100%

Dietary Accommodation

4.9★

Average Rating

Feast Shared Platters Package

COMPLETE

$90pp

Feast Shared Platters

2 Mains + 4 Sides

✓ Sliced Artisan Bread & Butter
✓ Chef’s Choice Canapes on Platters
✓ Two Shared Mains (Your Choice)
✓ Four Gourmet Sides (All Included)
✓ Dessert Passed on Trays
✓ Professional Wait Staff & Chef

Complete setup, service throughout your event, and pack-down all included

Minimum Guest Requirement

The Feast Shared Platters package requires a minimum of 60 paying guests. This ensures we can provide the full communal dining experience with proper portions, multiple platters per table, and the complete service that makes shared dining special.

Ready to Book Shared Platters?

Get a detailed quote for your event. We’ll respond within 24 hours.

Call (03) 8503 7394
Email Us

Menu Selections

Choose from our range of restaurant-quality mains and gourmet sides. Every dish is freshly prepared, beautifully presented on elegant platters, and designed to create the complete shared dining experience your guests will remember.

Mains (Choose 2)

Sides (All 4 Included)

Desserts (Choose 1)

Dietary Key: GF = Gluten Free, V = Vegan, VEG = Vegetarian, DF = Dairy Free

Shared Platters vs Seated Meals vs Bowl Food

	Shared Platters	Seated Meals	Bowl Food
Service Style	Platters brought to each table, guests serve themselves family-style	Waiters serve plated meals to seated guests	Waiters circulate with individual bowls
Price Range	$90pp	From $85pp	From $75pp
Best For	Weddings, celebrations, events wanting social interaction	Formal weddings, seated dinners	Cocktail events, standing receptions
Guest Interaction	High. Creates conversation at tables	Moderate. Formal table conversation	High. Guests mingle while eating

Shared Platters vs Seated Meals vs Bowl Food

	Shared Platters	Seated Meals	Bowl Food
Service Style	Platters brought to each table, guests serve themselves family-style	Waiters serve plated meals to seated guests	Waiters circulate with individual bowls
Price Range	$90pp	From $85pp	From $75pp
Best For	Weddings, celebrations, events wanting social interaction	Formal weddings, seated dinners	Cocktail events, standing receptions
Guest Interaction	High. Creates conversation at tables	Moderate. Formal table conversation	High. Guests mingle while eating

Feast Shared Platter Catering Melbourne

Premium Communal Dining Experiences

Transform your celebration with our gourmet feast shared platters. Restaurant-quality communal dining that brings people together around exceptional food, perfect for weddings, corporate events, and special gatherings across Melbourne.

Gourmet Platters • Communal Dining • Professional Service • Unforgettable Moments

Premium feast shared platter catering Melbourne with gourmet dishes

Shared Dining That Creates Connection

There’s something magical about shared dining. Watching guests pass beautifully presented platters around the table, serving each other, sharing stories over exceptional food. It’s not just a meal. It’s an experience that brings people together. Our feast shared platters combine restaurant-quality cuisine with the warmth of communal dining, creating moments your guests will talk about long after your event ends.

Gourmet shared dining platter with professional presentation

🍽

Gourmet Shared Platters

Restaurant-quality dishes crafted for sharing. Roasted meats, fresh seafood, vibrant vegetarian options, each platter designed to delight every palate at your table.

👥

Professional Service Team

Experienced wait staff and skilled chefs ensure seamless service. Your platters arrive perfectly heated, beautifully presented, and timed to perfection throughout your event.

✨

Complete Experience

Fresh bread rolls, crisp garden salads, premium accompaniments. Every element thoughtfully selected to create a complete, memorable dining experience for your guests.

🌱

Dietary Flexibility

Gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian options clearly marked. We ensure every guest at your table has delicious choices that meet their dietary needs without compromise.

🎯

Seamless Setup

Complete setup, service coordination, and cleanup handled by our professional team. You focus on your guests while we handle every culinary detail.

📋

Custom Menus

Work with our culinary team to create platters that reflect your event’s character. Seasonal ingredients, cultural preferences, themed presentations all welcome.

What’s Included in Your Feast Shared Platter Package

Gourmet Shared Dining Platters

Beautifully presented platters featuring your choice of premium mains. Roasted Angus scotch fillet, tender lamb, fresh seafood, or vibrant vegetarian options. Each dish crafted with care using quality ingredients.

Fresh Bread Rolls & Premium Butter

Warm, freshly baked bread rolls served with premium butter. The perfect complement to your shared platters and a touch of comfort your guests will appreciate.

Crisp Garden Salad

Vibrant bowls of fresh, seasonal greens with house-made dressing. A refreshing, healthy complement that balances your feast platters beautifully.

Professional Wait Staff

Experienced, attentive service team who ensure your platters are delivered perfectly timed, your guests are well cared for, and the dining experience flows seamlessly throughout your event.

Skilled Chef On-Site

An experienced chef oversees the heating, plating, and presentation of every dish. Quality control, perfect timing, and restaurant-standard execution guaranteed.

Complete Setup & Cleanup

Professional setup, service coordination, and thorough cleanup handled by our team. You enjoy your celebration while we manage every detail behind the scenes.

Feast Shared Platter Catering Across Melbourne

We bring our feast shared platter catering to venues across Melbourne and regional Victoria. Grand ballrooms, intimate restaurants, beachside marquees, private homes. Wherever you’re celebrating, we deliver the same exceptional cuisine and professional service.

Regular service areas include Melbourne CBD, South Yarra, Toorak, Brighton, Caulfield, Bayside, St Kilda, Port Melbourne, Williamstown, Sandringham, Mornington Peninsula, Geelong, Ballarat, and regional Victoria.

Planning an Event Outside These Areas?

Get in touch. We’re often able to accommodate special requests and will work with you to bring our feast shared platters to your chosen venue.

Why Melbourne Chooses HLB Catering for Feast Shared Platters

Restaurant-Quality Cuisine

Every platter is prepared with the same care, technique, and premium ingredients you’d expect from fine dining establishments. We don’t compromise on quality.

Creates Real Connection

Shared dining naturally brings people together. Passing platters, serving each other, sharing the experience. It’s more than food. It’s moments that matter.

Professional Service Team

Experienced staff who understand timing, presentation, and guest care. Your event flows seamlessly while we handle every detail behind the scenes.

Flexible & Customizable

Work with our culinary team to create platters that match your vision. Seasonal ingredients, cultural preferences, dietary requirements all accommodated.

Years of Experience

Decades of combined expertise creating exceptional shared dining experiences across Melbourne. We’ve perfected every aspect from preparation to presentation.

Complete Coordination

We work seamlessly with your venue, planners, and other vendors. Complete setup, timing coordination, and cleanup all handled professionally.

Perfect for Every Celebration

💍

Wedding Feast Platters

Create intimate moments at your wedding celebration. Shared platters encourage connection and conversation around beautifully presented cuisine.

🏢

Corporate Events

Professional shared dining for team celebrations, awards nights, conferences. Creates connection while maintaining sophistication and elegance.

🎉

Private Celebrations

Milestone birthdays, anniversaries, family gatherings. Feast shared platters bring loved ones together around exceptional food and genuine conversation.

🎓

Graduation Celebrations

Mark academic achievements with restaurant-quality shared dining. Perfect for bringing families together to celebrate success and create memories.

Feast Shared Platter FAQs

How does shared platter dining work?

What’s included in the feast shared platter package?

Can you accommodate dietary requirements?

How many people can you cater for?

Can we add canapes to start the event?

How far in advance should we book?

Can you create custom platters for our event theme?

Ready to Book Shared Platters?

Get a detailed quote for your communal dining event. We’ll respond within 24 hours.

Call (03) 8503 7394
Email Enquiry

Why Choose HLB Catering

Authentic Shared Dining Experience

We create genuine communal dining that gets people talking. Generous platters, restaurant-quality presentation, and service that brings warmth without sacrificing professionalism.

Complete Service from Start to Finish

We handle everything for your shared platter event. Professional setup, wait staff serving throughout, chef preparing food on-site, and complete pack-down.

Fresh, Restaurant-Quality Food

Every dish is prepared fresh using restaurant techniques and premium ingredients. Your guests taste the difference in every shared plate.

Victoria-Wide Service

We cater shared platters across Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula, Yarra Valley, Macedon Ranges, Geelong and regional Victoria.

Complete Dietary Accommodation

Every menu item clearly marked with dietary tags. We handle gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian and all special requirements properly.

Transparent Pricing

Clear per-person pricing at $90pp with everything included. No hidden fees or surprise charges.

What Our Clients Say

“The shared platters were perfect for our wedding. Every table had generous portions, the food was restaurant quality, and it created exactly the warm, social atmosphere we wanted.”

Emma & James

Wedding, Yarra Valley

“HLB catered our corporate dinner with shared platters for 80 people. The presentation was elegant, service was professional, and the food quality exceeded expectations.”

Michael Chen

Corporate Event, Melbourne CBD

“We chose shared platters for my 60th birthday and it was the right call. The lamb shoulder was incredible, everyone had plenty to eat, and the family-style service got everyone talking.”

Patricia Williams

Birthday, Mornington Peninsula

“The Angus eye fillet and Tasmanian salmon were both cooked perfectly. Generous portions, beautiful presentation on the platters, and our wait staff kept everything flowing smoothly.”

David Thompson

Engagement Party, Macedon Ranges

“From setup to pack-down, HLB handled everything professionally. The shared platters created the relaxed dining experience we wanted while maintaining elegance.”

Sophie Martinez

Wedding, Dandenong Ranges

“We’ve used HLB for two events now. Their shared platter service is consistently excellent. Quality food, professional team.”

Robert Anderson

Corporate Client, Geelong

Shared Platter Planning Guide

Wedding Celebrations

Shared platters create warmth and conversation at wedding receptions. Guests connect over food, the service feels relaxed yet refined.

Corporate Events

Shared platter catering works beautifully for corporate dinners, team celebrations and business events. Professional presentation, efficient service.

Birthday Parties

Milestone birthdays suit shared platters perfectly. The relaxed communal dining encourages conversation and generous portions ensure everyone eats well.

Engagement Parties

Engagement celebrations benefit from the warm, social atmosphere shared platters create. Guests mingle, share food, and celebrate together.

Guest Count Planning

Our shared platter package requires a minimum of 60 paying guests. This ensures proper portions and the full communal dining experience.

Menu Selection Tips

Choose two mains that offer variety. All four sides are included. We guide you through combinations that work well together.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does shared platter catering cost in Melbourne?

Our Feast Shared Platters package is $90 per person with a minimum of 60 paying guests. This includes sliced artisan bread and butter, chef’s choice canapes served on platters, two shared mains of your choice, four gourmet sides, dessert passed on trays, professional wait staff and chef throughout your event. Contact us at (03) 8503 7394 or events@hlbcatering.com.au for a detailed quote.

What’s included in your Feast Shared Platters package?

Every package includes sliced artisan bread and butter to start, chef’s choice canapes served on platters at each table, two premium shared mains from our menu, four gourmet sides freshly prepared, dessert passed on trays by wait staff, professional wait staff throughout, on-site chef, and complete setup and pack-down.

What’s the minimum guest count for shared platters?

The minimum guest count is 60 paying guests. This ensures we can provide the full communal dining experience with proper portions, multiple platters per table, and complete service.

What’s the difference between shared platters and plated service?

Shared platters create a communal dining experience where generous dishes land in the middle of the table and guests help themselves, creating relaxed, social energy. Plated service delivers pre-portioned meals directly to each guest’s seat for formal, structured dining.

Do you handle dietary requirements with shared platters?

Absolutely. Every menu item is clearly marked with dietary tags. We handle all dietary requirements including coeliac, vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free and nut allergies. Shared platters work well because guests can see all options and choose what suits them.

What areas do you service for shared platter catering?

We provide shared platter catering across Melbourne, Mornington Peninsula, Yarra Valley, Macedon Ranges, Dandenong Ranges, Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo and regional Victoria. Contact us to confirm service to your specific venue.

How are the platters presented and served?

Platters are presented on elegant serving dishes and brought to each table by our professional wait staff. Each table receives their own platters of all mains and sides. Guests serve themselves family-style. Our staff monitor tables throughout, replenishing as needed.

Can we customize the menu selections?

Yes. You choose 2 mains from our menu of 6 premium options and all 4 sides are included. We guide you through combinations that work well together and accommodate your guests’ preferences and dietary requirements.

How far in advance should we book shared platter catering?

We recommend booking 6 to 8 weeks in advance for most events. For weddings and large corporate events, 8 to 12 weeks is ideal. Contact us as soon as you have your date confirmed.

Shared Platter Catering Across Victoria

Melbourne & Inner Suburbs

Shared platter catering for Melbourne CBD, South Yarra, Toorak, Brighton, St Kilda, Port Melbourne, Richmond, Fitzroy, Carlton and surrounding areas. We service all major function centres and private venues across inner Melbourne.

Mornington Peninsula

Regular shared platter service to Portsea, Sorrento, Mornington, Mount Martha, Dromana, Rye and the entire peninsula. Perfect for beachside weddings, winery events and coastal celebrations.

Yarra Valley

Shared platter catering for Healesville, Yarra Glen, Coldstream and surrounding wine regions. We work with wineries, estates and private properties throughout the valley.

Macedon Ranges

Service to Woodend, Kyneton, Gisborne, Mount Macedon and the ranges. Ideal for rural weddings, estate events and country celebrations.

Dandenong Ranges

Regular shared platter catering to Olinda, Sassafras, Belgrave, The Basin and throughout the ranges. Perfect for garden weddings and mountain retreats.

Regional Victoria

Extended shared platter service to Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo and other regional centres. We bring restaurant-quality shared platters to regional venues and properties across Victoria.

Book Your Shared Platter Catering

Ready to create a memorable communal dining experience for your guests? Get in touch today for premium shared platter catering across Melbourne and regional Victoria.

Call Us

(03) 8503 7394

Mon to Fri, 9am to 5pm AEST

Email Us

events@hlbcatering.com.au

We’ll respond within 24 hours