Catering is the provision of food, drinks and desserts to a location which is not in a restaurant. Catering businesses hire caterers to look after the preparation, cooking, presentation and service of food at various events. The table service is often done by waiters and waitresses also known as servers. Catering. companies may prepare a buffet or a full three course meal. Many people hire wedding catering for their big day as well as party catering. System catering is the standardization of food preparation across a brand chain of restaurants. Someone who works in this foodservice industry is known as a caterer. Mobile catering is the provision of catering services from a van or other vehicle.