catering business?

Question

I am starting a catering business in L.A. Can I do this out of my home?

Answer 1

Generally any foodservice based business cannot be done out of home. However, you have options:

1. If your property is zoned for commercial use, you could always set your kitchen up to meet health codes. Often this requires closing it off to the rest of the house. Check with your local zoning board.

2. There may be places you can rent kitchen space.

3. Rent a storefront.

That said, many people start catering businesses out of their anyway. If you're starting small, this may be the way to go.

Answer 2

Associations may be a good avenue to explore. These organizations will address many of the thoughts, questions and concerns you'll inevitably have as well as many you haven't anticipated yet. See the source box for some relevant links.

Research, research, research – this cannot be stressed enough. Read as much as you can about the industry. Here are some book titles that are relevant:

* How to Start a Home-Based Catering Business, 5th by Denise Vivaldo
* How to Run a Catering Business from Home by Christopher Egerton-Thomas
* Start and Run a Catering Business by George Erdosh

There are plenty of free informational resources out there. Check the source box for links to articles.

Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!

Answer 3

In order to sell prepared food, it is necessary to have a commercial kitchen that passes inspection by the Board of Health. Many caterers do not want to do this. They rent the kitchen in the evening of a bakery or diner and do their cooking there.

It is possible to make a lot of money in catering. Good venues are wedding receptions, private parties at country clubs, birthday and graduation parties.

amadeus

Answer 4

I have my doubts, because the Health Department regulations generally don't allow it. You'll need to check with the state health department and see what the regulations are.