What Makes Great TV and Film Catering? Behind the Scenes of On-Set Dining

April 14, 2025

In the fast-paced world of TV and Film Catering, providing high-quality, well-timed meals isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Long shooting days, unpredictable schedules, and demanding conditions mean that on-set catering plays a vital role in keeping cast and crew fuelled, focused, and happy.

At Rhubarb Rhubarb Catering, we specialise in TV production catering, delivering fresh, nutritious, and delicious meals that meet the needs of busy film sets. But what exactly makes great TV and Film Catering? Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at the essential ingredients that set exceptional location catering apart.

1. Understanding the Demands of a Film or TV Set

Unlike traditional catering, TV and Film Catering must adapt to dynamic environments. Crews work long hours, often in remote locations, making on-set catering a logistical challenge. The best catering teams understand the industry’s demands and offer:

  • Flexible Service Hours – Film schedules change rapidly, requiring caterers to be adaptable.
  • Quick Turnaround – Meals must be ready on time to fit within strict production schedules.
  • Diverse Menu Options – Crews and cast members have varied dietary needs, from vegan and gluten-free to high-protein meals.

At Rhubarb Rhubarb, we know that film crew meals are more than just food—they’re fuel for the production. Our catering services ensure that everyone on set gets the nutrition they need to perform at their best.

2. High-Quality, Nutritionally Balanced Meals

A hungry crew is an unhappy crew. TV production catering should prioritize fresh ingredients, balanced meals, and plenty of variety to keep energy levels high throughout the day.

A great on-set catering team will provide:

  • Fresh, Seasonal Ingredients – Quality matters, and fresh produce makes all the difference.
  • Protein-Rich Options – Essential for long hours of physical and mental effort
  • Healthy and Comfort Foods – A mix of nutritious meals and well-loved classics keeps everyone satisfied.

At Rhubarb Rhubarb, we take pride in crafting delicious, chef-prepared crew meals designed to sustain energy and keep morale high on set. Whether it’s a hearty breakfast before an early morning call or a comforting dinner after a long shoot, we ensure every dish meets the highest standards.

3. Seamless Logistics: Keeping Meals Hot & On Time

Timing is everything in the film and TV industry, and location catering needs to run like clockwork. The best catering teams handle:

  • Efficient Setup & Breakdown – Whether catering from a mobile kitchen or delivering pre-prepared meals, setup should be seamless.
  • Hot & Fresh Service – No one wants cold, stale food. The right equipment ensures meals are kept at the perfect temperature.
  • Strategic Serving Stations – Placement matters. Meals should be easily accessible for the crew, no matter the location.

Our experience in on-set catering means we anticipate challenges before they arise. Whether catering in a remote field or a city-based studio, we ensure that cast and crew receive their meals efficiently and without disruption to filming.

4. Catering for Dietary Needs & Preferences

The modern film industry is diverse, and so are the dietary requirements of its workforce. A flexible and understanding TV and Film Caterer must offer:

  • Vegan, Vegetarian & Gluten-Free Meals
  • Dairy-Free & Allergen-Friendly Options
  • Custom Meal Requests for Specific Diets

At Rhubarb Rhubarb, we take dietary needs seriously. We design menus that cater to everyone on set, ensuring that every crew member—regardless of dietary restrictions—has a delicious, satisfying meal.

5. Sustainability in Film & TV Catering

With environmental concerns on the rise, the best TV production catering teams integrate sustainability into their practices. This includes:

  • Locally Sourced Ingredients – Reducing carbon footprints while supporting local suppliers.
  • Compostable & Recyclable Packaging – Eliminating single-use plastics on set
  • Food Waste Reduction Strategies – Donating surplus food where possible.

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a responsibility. At Rhubarb Rhubarb, we prioritize eco-friendly practices to ensure our catering services align with industry-wide sustainability goals.

6. The Importance of Exceptional Service

Great food is only part of the equation. Professionalism, friendliness, and efficiency set the best on-set catering teams apart. A positive attitude in the catering team contributes to a better working environment on set.

Our team at Rhubarb Rhubarb is known for:

  • Reliable & Friendly Service – Always professional and approachable.
  • Quick Adaptability – Ready to pivot when last-minute changes aris
  • Experience with High-Pressure Environments – Understanding the unique challenges of TV and Film Catering.

From early call times to late-night shoots, we make sure every meal service runs smoothly and efficiently.

Why Choose Rhubarb Rhubarb for Your TV & Film Catering?

  • When it comes to location catering, experience and quality matter. At Rhubarb Rhubarb Catering, we bring:
  • Years of experience in on-set catering
  • A commitment to high-quality, nutritious, and delicious film crew meals
  • A professional team that understands the demands of the industry
  • Eco-conscious catering solutions for modern film productions

If you’re looking for exceptional TV and Film Catering, we’re here to make sure your cast and crew are well-fed, energized, and ready to deliver their best performance.

Get in touch with us today to discuss your next production’s catering needs!

Why Great TV and Film Catering Makes All the Difference

Great TV production catering is about more than just food—it’s about timing, quality, efficiency, and service. A well-fed crew is a happy, productive crew, and with the right on-set catering partner, you can ensure that mealtimes enhance rather than hinder the production process.

At Rhubarb Rhubarb Catering, we take pride in delivering top-quality film crew meals that keep productions running smoothly. Whether you’re shooting on location or in a studio, our catering services ensure that every meal is one to remember. Looking for expert TV and Film Catering? Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your next production!

Adam Little Chef

Adam Little

Chef & Owner Adam Little boasts a 17-year career, gaining extensive experience across various catering sectors and shaping his unique style. His dedication to quality food and excellent customer service led him to Location Catering, where he served as Chef Manager on numerous productions. Adam and his team are committed to delivering great food, exceptional service, and a welcoming environment, always on time.