As a proud, Women Owned/family-owned and operated catering company in the Valley of the Sun, we have enjoyed serving the community for over 41 years. With a humble passion for amazing events and a personalized culture in the local industry. Dads Catering Services is one of the largest catering companies in Phoenix and a family and Corporate favorite.We have had the pleasure of serving not only thousands of weddings, Corporate and private parties - But have had the privilege of serving the Air Force, Army, Navy and Marines with pride and as well as hundreds of local businesses Statewide.
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I was working in our family butcher shop during the mid 1970's when a good customer of ours came in one day and asked if we could cater a BBQ for him. I proudly said, "Sure, no problem". After he told me what he would like to serve, I asked him how many people he was expecting? He said, "Oh, about 1700, give or take a few."
Dad's Catering is a full service Catering and Event Planning company. Located in Phoenix, Arizona, we are family-owned and operated and have been serving the entire state of Arizona since 1976. We have more than 40 years experience with Corporate Events, Charity Events, Weddings, Rehearsal Dinners, Anniversary Parties, Golf Outings, Back Yard BBQ's and Elegant Dinners.
Other than how beautiful the bride looks - what do people most talk about at a wedding? The food. And it is our sincere desire that they will be talking about our food as much as how beautiful the bride looks. Aside from the ceremony - the ambiance and food at a wedding are the two things that the guests will remember for years to come.
Our full service catering will handle everything from team lunches to full-scale events. Dads Catering has executed hundreds of corporate parties and events ranging from holiday parties to catering for the Phoenix Mercury and the the Arizona Rattlers as well as the National Guard. The full service corporate catering experience with Dads Catering means a partnership to deliver an event that will send the exact message you aim to to your business associates and guests.With over 40 years in the industry, Dads Catering has developed an outstanding reputation in the business community by understanding each event we cater serves as an extension of that company's brand loyalty.
Reviews (27)
Lacey Doyle
Jan 09, 2022
Denise R.
Jul 11, 2021
Spectacular! I used Dad's Catering for a reception following a funeral service. Tim came in and set up without us even being there. Came home to everything out and ready to eat. The food was incredible and everyone raved about the quality and taste of everything. Will definitely use Dad's Catering again. Everything about the process was so easy as well. A few text messages was all I had to do. Highly recommend!
Valerie Richards
May 18, 2021
I used Dad's catering for my wedding of 100 guest and had rib eye steak, chicken picotta, side salad, spring veggies, rolls, tea, lemonade. Also had chicken nuggets and mac and cheese and corn for the kids. Our guest could not say enough about how great the food was. The pricing was extremely reasonable. I would use them for any gatherings that we have.
I called the night before and left a frantic message that we had people call and say they were coming the day before our wedding. I got a call the next day saying that it was all covered not to worry.
I called the night before and left a frantic message that we had people call and say they were coming the day before our wedding. I got a call the next day saying that it was all covered not to worry.
Eduardo M.
Dec 30, 2019
Do Not, I repeat DO NOT! Give this company the time of the day. I flew from out of state to go over their catering menu and their place was a dump. The outside looks abandoned and their vans on the pictures are very outdated. The vehicles they have now have peeled off stickers with terrible paint jobs. The inside of the building looked like a warehouse, a lot of their dishes and buffet warmers were scattered everywhere.
I tried not to mind it and give them the benefit of the doubt. I met Tim (Owner) who was a very nice person & was welcoming. When I sat down with family & waited for the food to get there the space had an musty smell. The food finally arrived & the look matched the taste of the food which was VERY BLAND! We also tried the Veggie Lasangna and it was terrible, it needed some type of seasoning.
The fried chicken he served us was dry like no other. The bread & Spinach dip option was also bland. The bread he served us seemed like he bought the bread from the dollar store and was also bland. The rolls he used were store bought and was super disappointing, if I wanted store bought rolls what's the point of a catering company. When I asked to try the Garlic bread he mentioned he didn't have it ready but next time would be an option. (I TRAVELLED FROM OUT OF STATE, HELLO?!?!) When I asked to try the salad he said "Well it's just salad you know? Greens, onions, croutons etc".
I was in shock he said that specially knowing I was traveling from out of state. We didn't come to hear about the menu that's what a phone is for, we came to try food and he waisted our time. He was not involved in any of the process & made me feel like I was just another number to him while he typed away on his computer. DO NOT COME TO THIS PLACE!
I would not recommend trying them or giving them any business. The food was gross with no flavor, he was unprepared & didn't follow through with everything we were expecting to taste. Please avoid this place by all means necessary. His other "5 star" reviewers were not great & felt it was very misleading. If you don't believe me you'll know soon enough if. you try them.
I tried not to mind it and give them the benefit of the doubt. I met Tim (Owner) who was a very nice person & was welcoming. When I sat down with family & waited for the food to get there the space had an musty smell. The food finally arrived & the look matched the taste of the food which was VERY BLAND! We also tried the Veggie Lasangna and it was terrible, it needed some type of seasoning.
The fried chicken he served us was dry like no other. The bread & Spinach dip option was also bland. The bread he served us seemed like he bought the bread from the dollar store and was also bland. The rolls he used were store bought and was super disappointing, if I wanted store bought rolls what's the point of a catering company. When I asked to try the Garlic bread he mentioned he didn't have it ready but next time would be an option. (I TRAVELLED FROM OUT OF STATE, HELLO?!?!) When I asked to try the salad he said "Well it's just salad you know? Greens, onions, croutons etc".
I was in shock he said that specially knowing I was traveling from out of state. We didn't come to hear about the menu that's what a phone is for, we came to try food and he waisted our time. He was not involved in any of the process & made me feel like I was just another number to him while he typed away on his computer. DO NOT COME TO THIS PLACE!
I would not recommend trying them or giving them any business. The food was gross with no flavor, he was unprepared & didn't follow through with everything we were expecting to taste. Please avoid this place by all means necessary. His other "5 star" reviewers were not great & felt it was very misleading. If you don't believe me you'll know soon enough if. you try them.
Warren Edwards
Dec 21, 2019
We utilized this company for two events to feed 300+ people. Event number one they forgot drinks, event number two they forgot desserts. Although they brought the items after we started serving, it is a dis-service to my peers and managers. When contracting companies we prefer to utilize private over corporate. Unfortunately when a company is not able to deliver within a deadline two strikes typically does not lead to a third try.
The cafeteria style food is what you would expect when going through a lunch line - nothing amazing. They have some spectacular photos of prior services, it's just not what we received.
The cafeteria style food is what you would expect when going through a lunch line - nothing amazing. They have some spectacular photos of prior services, it's just not what we received.
Rose Karl
Dec 17, 2019
I used Dad's Catering for our company Christmas party last year. Without a doubt they made me look good. The entire evening I heard not only how good the food tasted, but how beautiful the presentation was. The staff had everyone relaxed and the bartender had an impressive memory knowing what each guest had as a preference.
Tammy F.
Oct 26, 2019
LOVE Dad's catering! They made the process so easy and affordable. They offer an amazing selection on their menu and allow you to customize the menu to help create the best meal for your event. For our wedding the food was so unbelievably delicious that guests went back for seconds. Their staff hands down were so amazing, polite and professional that they have made us a customer for life. Thank you all for making our special day amazing and delicious! Can't wait to use you again! Michal Peters.
Summer Messer
Jan 19, 2019
From the first tasting to the night of our wedding, the service from Dad's Catering was exceptional. The food was delicious and there were so many options to choose from! Multiple guests at the wedding told me how much they enjoyed their dinner. Both the food service and bartending service at our wedding was quick, friendly, and professional. We highly reccomend Dad's Catering.
Joe T.
Jun 23, 2018
This catering service probably serves the most underwhelming food. They're service is on the cusp of not caring in addition: the food doesn't deliver. I am a pescatarian and they have a vegetarian options that are more underwhelming than the main food. They serve ONLY beans and lentils. One meal I had had spoiled vegetables and it smelt like garbage. The only thing I like consistently is the fruit. Anyways, I hope they improve. It's a shame I don't look forward to their food.
Brian K.
Mar 03, 2018
I used Dad's Catering when I was organizing a retirement party for a friend of mine. They were very responsive, and Tim helped me work up the menu of hot and cold hors d'oeuvres, even recommending I downsize the array because he thought it might be too much food. The hors d'oeuvres were delivered right on time, and the two servers were extremely polite, professional, and efficient. The food was a hit with all of the guests who were convinced I had been planning this for weeks. I would highly recommend them for any occasion.
April Wentworth
Jan 18, 2018
Michael S.
Jul 31, 2017
Marcia K. Canady
Jun 26, 2017
Dad's Catering is THE WORST CATERER ON THE PLANET. Dad's Catering is a COMPLETE DISASTER! My parents 60th Anniversary was ruined by this unprofessional, incompetent and RUDE company. TIm, the owner of Dad's Catering, KNEW that were cooking for over 100 people. Tim, the owner of Dad's Catering, KNEW that people would be entering the room at 6:00PM, so everything needed to be set up (glasses, utensils on the tables), including the bar (with drinks chilled, water in the glasses, water/ice tea on the tables and the Margarita Fountain flowing). DINNER was supposed to be at 6:30pm. Tim, the owner of Dad's Catering, told my 81 year old mother that his team would arrive at 5:15pm.
She had no idea how long it would take them to set-up.and to be clear, SHE DID NOT TELL TIM WHAT TIME HIS SHOULD SET-UP, SHE ONLY TOLD HIM THAT GUESTS WOULD ARRIVE AT 6PM, THE BAR SHOULD BE SET-UP BY 6PM AND DINNER SHOULD BE SERVED ST 6:30PM. It is the Dad's Catering who is responsible for knowing how long it would take his employees to set-up and be ready by 6:00pm as agreed.
All of the guests started to arrive around 6:00pm and here is what they encountered: One of the Dad's Catering staff members was putting glasses on the table BY HANDLING THEM FROM THE TOP OF THE GLASS, NOT THE BOTTOM! He just looked up at the 80 people coming in the door and continued, as SLOW AS HE POSSIBLY COULD MOVE, to put glasses on the table.
I asked him to please move the glass racks out of the room because "there are 80 people coming in the door". "Tammy", apparently The Manager of Dad's Catering, walked to me and said, "Are you in charge? Why are you telling my staff what to do?" She showed me the "documentation" and said, "we only got here at 5:15pm and you aren't supposed to be here until 6:30pm". IT WAS 6:24PM!
And that was an ERROR ON YOUR PART Dad's Catering! Again, a reputable catering company decides and should KNOW how much time is needed to set-up the room. A staff member was still puttig glassses on the table (and handling them by the TOP instead of the stem!), Another staff member was SLOWLY putting dessert on the dessert table like it was the MOST IMPORTANT THING TO DO.
Again Dad's Catering, the bar was not set up, there was no water on the table (it was 100 degrees outside!) and 80 people just walked in the door. I asked her if she could stop doing that and make sure the bar gets set up and water gets on the table BECAUSE 80 PEOPLE JUST WALKED IN THE DOOR. She, said to me, ":DON'T TELL ME WHAT TO DO!" WOW! REALLY? THAT'S HOW YOU TALK TO A GUEST?
I accidentally touched her arm when she GOT VERY CLOSE TO ME AND WAS IN MY FACE! She told at least 3 people that I PUSHED HER. SHE TOLD MY PARENTS' GUESTS THAT I PUSHED HER! Really? That's how your staff conducts themselves? THIS IS NOT ONLY SHOCKING BEHAVIOR, BUT A LIE! If your staff would have done their job, I would never had said anything. Your staff couldn't figure out how to get water on the tables.
I HAD TO PUT ICE IN PITCHERS, FILL THEM WITH WATER AND SERVE EVERYONE WATER! ME, THE GUEST. YES. ME! I POURED EVERY SINGLE GUEST IN THE ROOM A GLASS OF WATER BECAUSE THEY WERE SO HOT AND SO THIRSTY AND THE BAR STILL WAS NOT SET UP.it was now 7pm! WHAT A SHOCKING, UNPROFESSIONAL BUSINESS. Tim, the owner Dad's Catering, instructed my father to buy the WRONG AMOUNT OF TEQUILA for the margarita fountain (that DIDN'T WORK!).
So my Dad had to leave his OWN PARTY to buy more tequila! The champagne glasses and the water glasses WERE SPOTTY and the staff didn't know the difference between champagne and sparkling cider! I don't think we got to eat until after 7:15pm! Dad's Catering incompetent and unprofessional behavior ruined a very special day for my parents! Tim sent my parents a check for $500. Really Tim? You think that is fair compensation for ruining a once-in-a lifetime party? My parents paid over 10 times that for the catering and you sent them $500?!
She had no idea how long it would take them to set-up.and to be clear, SHE DID NOT TELL TIM WHAT TIME HIS SHOULD SET-UP, SHE ONLY TOLD HIM THAT GUESTS WOULD ARRIVE AT 6PM, THE BAR SHOULD BE SET-UP BY 6PM AND DINNER SHOULD BE SERVED ST 6:30PM. It is the Dad's Catering who is responsible for knowing how long it would take his employees to set-up and be ready by 6:00pm as agreed.
All of the guests started to arrive around 6:00pm and here is what they encountered: One of the Dad's Catering staff members was putting glasses on the table BY HANDLING THEM FROM THE TOP OF THE GLASS, NOT THE BOTTOM! He just looked up at the 80 people coming in the door and continued, as SLOW AS HE POSSIBLY COULD MOVE, to put glasses on the table.
I asked him to please move the glass racks out of the room because "there are 80 people coming in the door". "Tammy", apparently The Manager of Dad's Catering, walked to me and said, "Are you in charge? Why are you telling my staff what to do?" She showed me the "documentation" and said, "we only got here at 5:15pm and you aren't supposed to be here until 6:30pm". IT WAS 6:24PM!
And that was an ERROR ON YOUR PART Dad's Catering! Again, a reputable catering company decides and should KNOW how much time is needed to set-up the room. A staff member was still puttig glassses on the table (and handling them by the TOP instead of the stem!), Another staff member was SLOWLY putting dessert on the dessert table like it was the MOST IMPORTANT THING TO DO.
Again Dad's Catering, the bar was not set up, there was no water on the table (it was 100 degrees outside!) and 80 people just walked in the door. I asked her if she could stop doing that and make sure the bar gets set up and water gets on the table BECAUSE 80 PEOPLE JUST WALKED IN THE DOOR. She, said to me, ":DON'T TELL ME WHAT TO DO!" WOW! REALLY? THAT'S HOW YOU TALK TO A GUEST?
I accidentally touched her arm when she GOT VERY CLOSE TO ME AND WAS IN MY FACE! She told at least 3 people that I PUSHED HER. SHE TOLD MY PARENTS' GUESTS THAT I PUSHED HER! Really? That's how your staff conducts themselves? THIS IS NOT ONLY SHOCKING BEHAVIOR, BUT A LIE! If your staff would have done their job, I would never had said anything. Your staff couldn't figure out how to get water on the tables.
I HAD TO PUT ICE IN PITCHERS, FILL THEM WITH WATER AND SERVE EVERYONE WATER! ME, THE GUEST. YES. ME! I POURED EVERY SINGLE GUEST IN THE ROOM A GLASS OF WATER BECAUSE THEY WERE SO HOT AND SO THIRSTY AND THE BAR STILL WAS NOT SET UP.it was now 7pm! WHAT A SHOCKING, UNPROFESSIONAL BUSINESS. Tim, the owner Dad's Catering, instructed my father to buy the WRONG AMOUNT OF TEQUILA for the margarita fountain (that DIDN'T WORK!).
So my Dad had to leave his OWN PARTY to buy more tequila! The champagne glasses and the water glasses WERE SPOTTY and the staff didn't know the difference between champagne and sparkling cider! I don't think we got to eat until after 7:15pm! Dad's Catering incompetent and unprofessional behavior ruined a very special day for my parents! Tim sent my parents a check for $500. Really Tim? You think that is fair compensation for ruining a once-in-a lifetime party? My parents paid over 10 times that for the catering and you sent them $500?!
Ingrid G.
Jun 21, 2017
Brian F.
Dec 28, 2016
This catering company was used for the last 2 years by my employer for holiday meals served at work. Both years the Thanksgiving meal was pretty good however one of the delivery times was late by 2 hours. This year the Thanksgiving meal was pretty good but the Christmas meal was just terrible! First off, the day shift meal delivery was late by 2 hours.
Then on top of that there were no rolls, no dessert and no drinks served even though they were paid for. On the swing shift which I partook of, the roast beef was cold, the "green beans almondine" were just frozen green beans thawed and tasteless, The "twice baked potatoes" were cubed potatoes in a gross cheese sauce and some were still crunchy!. Butter was served but no rolls. The "Mandarin orange salad" was just a wilted mess and no Mandarin oranges in sight! No dessert. Do not use this caterer!
Then on top of that there were no rolls, no dessert and no drinks served even though they were paid for. On the swing shift which I partook of, the roast beef was cold, the "green beans almondine" were just frozen green beans thawed and tasteless, The "twice baked potatoes" were cubed potatoes in a gross cheese sauce and some were still crunchy!. Butter was served but no rolls. The "Mandarin orange salad" was just a wilted mess and no Mandarin oranges in sight! No dessert. Do not use this caterer!
Dave Denmon
May 25, 2016
Geneva K.
Feb 23, 2016
After attending several events catered by Dad's Catering, there was no other company I would even considering hiring other than them! From the planning stage through the end of the event they were super helpful and always very friendly! They catered my very large wedding, the food was phenomenal and the value couldn't be beat. They truly went above and beyond to make my day great (even packed us plates to take in the limo). I couldn't be happier and I recommend them to everyone I know!
Yara P.
Nov 19, 2015
Go S.
Oct 01, 2015
We have a store "GoRageous" in the Melrose District of Phoenix. Dad's Catering catered our craft night this week. They did a great job and the price was more than fair. They came in about a half hour before we started, made a very cute snack table, and came back to clean everything. Very happy with them and will use them again in the near future. We have used them for other events and love them, BL
Nat P.
Apr 07, 2015
Bethany B.
Oct 27, 2014
I have now had this catering service food as a guest at 2 different weddings. Both times the steak was cold and the vegetables overcooked, flavorless and discolored. The service was good as was the dessert tray. The cocktail hour meatballs were very unattractive and strange tasting. Other guests were afraid to try them. I was a guest but as a recent bride I'm glad I didn't use them.
Mandi C.
May 06, 2013
Dad's Catering was great to work with for our wedding. We were starving when we met with them for a tasting, and we could not even finish the sample plates they brought us. All the food we tried was super fresh and really tasty. We got a great deal too - two free appetizer trays (we chose chips, veggies and dip) and a free 1 year anniversary cake!
They went out of their way to help us keep our budget down, never pressured us or tried to upsell us. They were just great people all around. The only reason they don't get the full five stars from me is that they are not that tech-savvy and that's important these days. Email communication was not their strong suit, so I felt I had to call anytime I had a simple question. Other than that, I loved their food, and next time we need catering they will be at the top of our list.
They went out of their way to help us keep our budget down, never pressured us or tried to upsell us. They were just great people all around. The only reason they don't get the full five stars from me is that they are not that tech-savvy and that's important these days. Email communication was not their strong suit, so I felt I had to call anytime I had a simple question. Other than that, I loved their food, and next time we need catering they will be at the top of our list.
Brian Harris
Feb 19, 2013
Megan K.
Jul 17, 2012
I had Dad's Catering cater my PA school graduation party recently. I could not have been more pleased. From the moment I spoke with Linda and Tim, I knew my event was going to be taken care of without worry. The food was delicious and a huge hit. The servers were very nice and hard working. My party was a great way to end two long difficult years and I'm very thankful I decided to go with Dad's Catering. They truly made my evening special.
Tammy H.
Jul 08, 2012
My husband and I used Dad's Catering in 2008 for our wedding. It was absolutely amazing. We had many compliments on the food and the presentation was gorgeous. They are a family owned business and they truly do care about their clients. Their staff truly does take pride in what they do. This year we used Dad's on the 4th of July. We had a party at our home.
It went off without a doubt considering the weather wasn't all that great and Hot naturally. Staff again was awesome very friendly and personable. Food was amazing and we didn't have to lift a finger. Tim and Linda helped us plan our party and were there to answer every question we had. Our family will recommend Dad's to everyone we know. Prices are great and the have several menus to choose from. Thanks again Dad's for another success.
It went off without a doubt considering the weather wasn't all that great and Hot naturally. Staff again was awesome very friendly and personable. Food was amazing and we didn't have to lift a finger. Tim and Linda helped us plan our party and were there to answer every question we had. Our family will recommend Dad's to everyone we know. Prices are great and the have several menus to choose from. Thanks again Dad's for another success.
Ellen C.
Apr 10, 2012
I have used Dad's for two events, a 25th Anniversary and my own wedding. First event food was inconsistant, dry and unappetizing, service was amazing. My wedding just the opposite food was great service was a mess. Servers were late, out of uniform, in dirty clothing, standing out front smoking and drinking. Did not follow direction. A nightmare.
There were major fails in both events, but the worst part is how unresponsive the management was to concerns/complaints. It was like we have your money so we don't care. I felt totally blown off and will tell anyone who will listen about my experience. I would not use them again for any reason. You really do get what you pay for in this case. Spend a little extra and use a quality caterer who will respond to your concerns and ensure that your event is what you want it to be. Don't take a chance here.
There were major fails in both events, but the worst part is how unresponsive the management was to concerns/complaints. It was like we have your money so we don't care. I felt totally blown off and will tell anyone who will listen about my experience. I would not use them again for any reason. You really do get what you pay for in this case. Spend a little extra and use a quality caterer who will respond to your concerns and ensure that your event is what you want it to be. Don't take a chance here.
Kayleigh L.
Dec 02, 2010
Just used Dad's Catering for my wedding in November. First of all, they are very affordable. When you are paying for your wedding yourself, this is very important. Second, they allow you to purchase all of your own alcohol and they will provide a bartender. This saved me so much money as I was able to buy all my alcohol when it was on sale. I had a pasta bar at my wedding and I got so many compliments on it. I highly recommend them for your next event!
