Ordering a Festive Meal From a Caterer in Dakar

For a Christmas, New Year or large family gathering meal, using a caterer or restaurant avoids the stress of preparing everything yourself for a big group. From choosing the menu to ordering in time and setting a budget, here is what to plan ahead when ordering in Dakar, whether the meal is for a dozen relatives or a much larger gathering.

Caterer or restaurant: which to choose

A caterer prepares the dishes and delivers or brings them to you, a practical solution when the gathering is at home and you want to keep control over the setting and atmosphere. A restaurant suits you better if you prefer everything to happen on site, without managing service or cleanup afterwards. The choice mostly depends on the number of guests and where the gathering takes place: for a large group at home, a caterer is often simpler to organise.

Senegalese or international menu

Some places offer traditional Senegalese menus, with dishes like thiéboudienne, yassa or grilled meats, while others specialise in more international cuisine to vary festive meals. Many also offer a mixed menu, combining a few local dishes with a few international ones depending on guests' tastes. It is best to ask for a specific sample menu before ordering, rather than relying only on a general description.

Number of guests and quantities

The quantity ordered naturally depends on the number of guests, but also on the type of meal planned: a buffet usually requires different quantities than a seated service with several courses. Always give an accurate headcount when ordering, allowing a small margin if some guests are not yet confirmed, rather than adjusting the order at the last minute, since last-minute changes are harder to accommodate once a kitchen is already fully booked for the day.

Ordering early, especially during the holidays

Since the year-end holiday season is the busiest time of year for caterers and restaurants, delivery or booking slots fill up fast, sometimes weeks before Christmas or New Year. Ordering early also makes it easier to negotiate the menu and to have a choice of delivery options or service times. A deposit is often required to confirm a large order, a normal practice during this time of year, and it also gives both sides a clear written record of the agreed menu and headcount.

Delivery, service and budget

Depending on the provider, delivery may be included or charged separately, and some caterers also offer table service for the duration of the meal. The budget per person varies widely depending on the menu chosen, from simple formulas to more elaborate meals with several courses and desserts. To compare quoted FCFA prices, the currency converter can help if you are thinking in another currency. You can also compare several options among the restaurants and caterers listed in the Dakar directory before deciding.

Recommended addresses on SeneFinder

• Restaurant-lounge-traiteur la Créole: catering restaurant in Dakar
• La Royaltine: restaurant in Plateau
• Artisan Boulanger Eric Kayser: bakery and pastry shop in Plateau
• Coeur d'amande sn: pastry shop in Dakar

To see all addresses in this category, check the directory, and to widen your search, explore the Dakar directory.

Useful tools

• FCFA currency converter to estimate your budget
• Practical guide for everyday useful information
• For more, also read our selection of caterers in Dakar and our guide to meal delivery in Dakar

Frequently asked questions

How far ahead of the holidays should I order?

It is best to order several weeks before Christmas or New Year, since delivery slots fill up quickly during this period.

Can Senegalese and international dishes be mixed in one menu?

Yes, many caterers offer to put together a mixed menu based on guests' preferences, you just need to ask when ordering.

Is a deposit needed to confirm an order?

For large holiday-season orders, a deposit is often required to secure the quantities and the delivery slot.