Catering Service Agreement

1. Booking & Deposit Requirements

• Deposit Amount: A non-refundable deposit of 50% of the total quoted price is required to secure your event date. This deposit covers advance procurement of specialty ingredients (including imported proteins for Suya, premium palm oil, custom spice blends, etc.) and labor scheduling.
• Remaining Balance: The remaining 50% is due no later than 7 days before the event date, unless otherwise arranged in writing.
• Final Guaranteed Guest Count: A final guaranteed headcount must be submitted at least 7 days prior to the event. This count determines the minimum quantity of food prepared and the final invoice amount. Reductions after this date will not decrease the total charge.
• Guest Count Increases: Increases of up to 10% above the guaranteed count may be accommodated with at least 72 hours notice, subject to ingredient and staffing availability.

2. Cancellation & Refund Schedule

We understand that plans change. The following schedule reflects the real costs incurred as your event date approaches:

Why no refund within 13 days? At this stage, specialty ingredients — such as cuts of beef and goat for Suya, stockfish for Egusi, custom Jollof Rice spice blends, and imported palm oil — have already been procured specifically for your event. These perishable items cannot be reallocated to regular restaurant operations at this volume.

3. Menu Finalization & Event Logistics

Menu Selections

• All menu selections must be finalized 14 days before the event.
• Dietary restrictions and allergy notices (e.g., peanut-free, gluten-free, shellfish-free options) must be communicated at the time of menu finalization. We will make commercially reasonable efforts to accommodate these needs, but our kitchen processes shared equipment and cross-contamination cannot be fully guaranteed.
• Menu changes after the 14-day deadline are subject to availability and may incur additional charges.

Equipment & Venue Responsibilities

Additional equipment (e.g., premium place settings, tents, custom signage) can be arranged for an additional fee. Contact us to discuss custom arrangements for events like those at venues similar to the Saratoga Performing Arts Center.

4. Liability & Compliance

Health & Safety

Ufondu Kitchen complies with all applicable local health department regulations, New York State food safety standards, and building permits required for off-site catering operations. Our kitchen maintains current health inspection certifications, and our catering staff follow safe food handling protocols including proper temperature control during transport and service.

Liability Limitations

Ufondu Kitchen’s liability for any event is limited to the total amount paid for catering services. We are not liable for any incidental, consequential, or punitive damages. The Client assumes responsibility for ensuring the venue is safe and suitable for food service.

Force Majeure

5. Indemnification

The Client agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Ufondu Kitchen, its owners, employees, and agents from any claims, damages, or expenses arising from the Client’s event, including but not limited to injuries caused by the venue conditions, alcohol service (if provided by the Client), or unauthorized use of Ufondu Kitchen’s branding or intellectual property.

6. Governing Law

This agreement is governed by the laws of the State of New York. Any disputes shall be resolved in the courts of Albany County, New York.

7. Contact & Bookings

To book a catering event or discuss custom arrangements: