Feeding a live sports broadcast crew isn’t just about making sure there’s something hot on a plate. It’s about precision, rhythm, and adapting quickly when the game plan changes. OB catering is a niche craft, and at Rhubarb Rhubarb Catering, we’ve fine-tuned our approach to meet the pace and pressure of live productions.
When filming live sport, the day often kicks off in darkness. Crew arrive before sunrise to rig equipment, run cables, test feeds, and set the stage for the nation’s coverage. Our job? Be there before them. Breakfast is on, coffee is strong, and options are varied – think meaty, veggie, vegan, gluten-free, and everything in between. We cater to all dietary requirements because we know a hungry crew doesn’t perform at its best.
The challenge with OB catering is timing. There’s no luxury of a relaxed lunch hour or a set meal window. Everything is dictated by the production schedule. Sometimes there’s a 20-minute break between segments. Other times, a sudden change in broadcast means we hold lunch back an hour. Our team is trained to flex and flow with the needs of the day.
Meals have to be more than delicious. They need to be practical. Think dishes that can be eaten one-handed, food that holds its heat or freshness until the crew is free to grab it. We plan menus with these realities in mind. Salads that won’t wilt. Curries that stay warm. Wraps that don’t fall apart mid-bite.
But it doesn’t stop with the food. We build tea stations, stock quick snacks, and prepare energy boosts for anyone dashing between tasks. Half-time might mean football to the audience, but to us it’s a window to serve 50 meals in ten minutes.
OB catering requires teamwork and communication. Our chefs speak directly with production managers and floor runners to time everything perfectly. We’ve even delivered meals pitchside, in OB trucks, and under rain tents to keep the crew fuelled and focused. A successful OB catering day is one where we’re invisible and essential at the same time. When the crew eats well without a hitch, we know we’ve done our job.
Looking for reliable catering for your next live sports broadcast?
At Rhubarb Rhubarb, we specialise in fuelling crews on location with fresh, hot meals—delivered on time, every time. Whether it’s early starts, tight turnarounds or changing venues, we’ve got the experience to keep your team well-fed and focused. Get in touch to discuss your next event.
