Catering Guidelines 

As you plan your event, our catering team will meet with you and help you select a menu. Whether you are planning a small business meeting or large cocktail reception, our catering professionals will attend to your every need. Please inquire about your next event by calling (713) 348-4084 or send e-mail to catering@rice.edu. Our office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Selecting a Menu

The catering team will assist you and answer any questions that you have. We request that you contact us and place your order seven days prior to your event. However, in most cases, we can accommodate requests up to three business days prior to an event. A final guest count must be confirmed no later than two business days prior to your scheduled service and any changes need to be made at that time. Once you have placed your order, we will give you a schedule outlining all deadlines. We will do our best to accommodate changes made within 24 hours of a scheduled event.

All menu items will be presented on high-quality disposable packaging. If you require a more elegant presentation, please contact us for additional costs associated with such upgrades.

We can accommodate most dietary needs. Please make all special requests when you place your order.

All leftover food is the property of the catering department, unless the event is a drop off. Most foods require proper handling and temperature control.

Pricing, Payment and Cancellations

Food and beverage prices are listed on the catering menu. Additional charges may be incurred for special requests. We can also customize menus that are subject to special pricing. Events must be canceled two business days prior to the event or will be billed in full. Billing inquiries must be made within 10 days of the invoice date. If you have any questions regarding your invoice, please contact the catering department at 713-348-4084. After booking your event, we require your “Fund” and “Organizational Code.” Payments by any other method require a 50 percent deposit two weeks prior to the event, with final payment due prior to delivery. We do not accept any credit cards.

All event orders are subject to a $15 delivery charge. Delivery charges will not apply to orders that are picked up.

Service Equipment

Table linens, china and glassware are not included in the meal price. All such items are available for an additional charge. Contact the catering office for pricing. As a host of a catered event, you are responsible for the service equipment provided by Rice Catering. All items must remain at the event location. If any equipment is lost or damaged, you will be charged a replacement cost for those items.

Alcohol Policy

Rice Catering does not sell liquor, beer, wine or champagne. Clients can provide their own alcoholic beverages and have them delivered to Rice Catering or to the event location. Our staff is permitted to serve your alcoholic beverages based on the following guidelines:

• No guests under 21 will be served.

• The event is not a paid event.

• No payment is required for alcoholic beverages. Drinks must be served to guests, free of charge.

• No gratuities are included or accepted in any form.

Bar Fees

Bartender — $100

Up to four hours, including set up and clean up.

Each additional hour — $25

Bar setups are not included.

Bar Setups — $1/person

Setups include: Ice, tumblers and cocktail napkins

Glassware, upgraded plasticware and mixers are available for an additional cost.

Table Centerpieces

Centerpieces can be provided for any event with a variety of options and prices. Please contact our staff to discuss adding this special touch to your event.

Tax and Gratuity

All university departments and recognized student groups are tax exempt. Other organizations under tax-exempt status are required to provide their tax ID number and form.