Policies

Ordering Deadline:

In order to properly staff and execute your event, please remember to order as soon as you are able. The less lead time we have, the more the options become limited. CaterTrax orders must be placed 11 days in advance. Please note that late orders past this deadline will need to be placed via email at hsg-catering@uiowa.edu. Added events within seven days before the event date, will be subject to a fee of $50. When catering volume exceeds our delivery capacity, the ability to place an order for a certain day may be blocked without notice, regardless of the deadline.

Final Changes and Cancellations:

The final guest count and confirmation of all details is due by 10am seven days prior to the event date.  If the due date falls on a weekend, changes are due by 10am the Friday prior. In the event a final guarantee is not received, we will use your most recent guest count for the guarantee. >br>>br> Any changes received after your final changes due date are not guaranteed and will be subject to an additional charge of $25, if the change is possible.

Cancellations within seven days of your event will be assessed a $50 cancellation fee. The cost of ordered or prepared food will be added to the $50 cancellation fee, if applicable.

Payment:

Public groups must pre-pay by credit card seven (7) days prior to the event date. We accept Visa, MasterCard and Discover cards. We do not accept cash.  In the case where payment will be made by check, we must receive the check at least ten (10) business days prior to the event. If pre-payment is not received, your event may be subject to cancelation. Events that are being billed to a University Department will need to provide an MFK or Pcard seven (7) days prior to the event. Forms of payment will be charged following the event.

Alcohol Policies:

All alcohol service at events must be provided by University Catering. University Catering holds the liquor license for the University of Iowa campus. Substantial food must be served during the event and non-alcoholic beverages must be available at no charge to guests. All bars are cashless, accepting credit card only. Bars can be open for a maximum of 6 hours. Bars must close 30 minutes prior to event end time, unless the entire event is less than 90 minutes. Liquor is not permitted in academic buildings.

Alcohol service must be approved by the Vice President of Student Life, unless held in a pre-approved location. Student organizations will always need approval from the VPSL, regardless of location on campus.

Dietary Concerns:

University Catering at The University of Iowa cannot guarantee the accuracy of nutrition information. Nutrition and ingredient information may vary due to product substitutions and formulation by the manufacturer prior to product purchase by the university. Additionally, cross contamination and other variables are beyond the university’s control. Individuals with food-related dietary concerns should be aware of this risk and understand that University Catering does not assume any liability for adverse reactions to foods consumed, or items with which one may come into contact while eating at any University Catering event. For questions or concerns please call 319-335-3116.

Additional Policies:

Catering prices are subject to change without notice. We will not guarantee prices prior to 60 days before your scheduled event.

Due to health department regulations, leftover perishable foods may not be removed from any event by anyone except University Catering staff. This policy addresses public safety concerns and is non-negotiable. University Catering works closely with Table to Table and UI Food Pantry to donate unused food items.