How We Craft the Perfect Menu for Film Production Catering

When it comes to film production catering, creating the perfect menu involves more than just good food. It’s about fuelling long days, meeting dietary needs, and keeping cast and crew satisfied from early morning call times to late-night wraps. At Rhubarb Rhubarb Catering, we take pride in designing menus that deliver variety, nutrition, and comfort — ensuring every meal becomes a highlight of the day.

With years of experience in film industry food services, we understand the pace, pressure, and unpredictability of life on set. Our mission is simple: provide fresh meals for crew that taste great, support energy levels, and keep productions running smoothly.

1. Understanding the Needs of a Film Set

No two productions are the same. Crew size, location, shoot schedule, and dietary preferences can vary widely, and so should the catering. We approach each job with a clean slate, ready to adapt.

Key considerations for film production catering:

• Long hours and strict timeframes — meals must be served promptly, without delay
• Diverse dietary requirements — vegan, gluten-free, allergy-conscious, high-protein options
• Location-specific logistics — food must remain hot, fresh, and accessible whether on a studio lot or remote outdoor set

We tailor every service to the unique needs of your production, ensuring no crew member is overlooked.

2. Building a Balanced, High-Energy Menu

A successful menu should combine nourishing, slow-release energy foods with comforting favourites that keep morale high.

Our menu philosophy:

• Nutritionally balanced meals with proteins, complex carbs, and fibre
• Fresh, seasonal produce and high-quality ingredients used throughout
• Rotating menu plans featuring global flavours and classic dishes

This balance ensures every crew member receives meals that are both satisfying and functional — food that fuels performance.

3. Catering for Every Diet Without Compromise

Modern productions require inclusive catering. Everyone , regardless of dietary need or lifestyle choice, should have access to a delicious, well-prepared meal.

How we accommodate special diets:

• Fully developed vegan and vegetarian mains — not just salads
• Gluten-free alternatives designed to match the standard menu for flavour and satisfaction
• High-protein options including lean meats and plant-based proteins
• Allergy-safe preparation with strict cross-contamination protocols in place

Whatever the diet, we ensure no one is left behind when it’s time to eat.

4. Adapting to Production Schedules & Shoot Timings

Set schedules can shift quickly. Delays, overruns, or early wraps are part of the job, and catering must move with the flow.

Our approach to flexible meal service:

• Pre-scheduled and on-demand meal service throughout the day
• Quick, grab-and-go options including wraps, sandwiches, and snack boxes
• Hot, comforting dishes specifically prepared for night shoots or extended shifts

We keep cast and crew fed and happy, without disrupting the day’s filming.

5. Global Flavours & Familiar Comforts

Food should excite, even on a tight production timeline. We offer a mix of bold, international flavours and homely classics, ensuring that meals never become repetitive or dull.

Some of our most popular dishes:

• International-inspired meals such as Thai curries, Mexican rice bowls, and Mediterranean mezze
• Traditional favourites including roast dinners, pasta bakes, stews, and jacket potatoes
• Light, healthy options like grilled proteins, broth-based soups, and fresh salads
• Sweet extras such as fruit platters, energy bars, and homemade treats

We make sure there’s something for everyone at every service.

6. Committing to Sustainable Catering on Set

As the screen industries embrace sustainability, we’re doing our part behind the scenes. Our catering service is designed to reduce waste, support local sourcing, and meet environmental standards.

Our sustainability practices:

• Sourcing ingredients from trusted, local suppliers wherever possible
• Using compostable and recyclable packaging on location
• Smart portion planning and minimising waste with repurposing or donation initiatives

Great food doesn’t have to come at a cost to the planet, and we’re proud to prove that on every production.

Why Choose Rhubarb Rhubarb Catering?

We’re not just cooks on wheels, we’re part of your production. With extensive experience in movie set catering, we understand what your crew needs to stay energised, motivated, and ready to work.

Why productions trust us:

• Menus designed with balance, variety, and dietary flexibility in mind
• Only fresh, high-quality ingredients used on every shoot
• Fast, efficient service that adapts to last-minute changes
• Full UK coverage, we bring our mobile kitchens to wherever you’re filming

If you’re planning a shoot and need a catering team that understands production life, we’re here to help.

Book Your Film Catering With Us

Looking for expert catering for your upcoming production? We’re ready to craft a bespoke menu that meets your team’s needs — wherever you’re filming in the UK.

Get in touch to start planning your catering today.