Thanksgiving Dinner by Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering

While food is an attractive for almost every holiday, few would dispute that the meal is the main attraction when it comes to Thanksgiving. There are countless age-old traditions associated with the festivities in the US, but plenty of new institutions have also crept into the holiday picture over the years. Anyone involved in planning an event must consider a wide range of options that will make a memorable impression on guests. When you retain New York holiday and event catering services, you have an edge on achieving this objective. A few Thanksgiving dinner ideas should get you started.

  1. Thanksgiving in Sandwich Form:

    For many people, the best part of Thanksgiving is the meals you make with the leftovers – especially the iconic turkey sandwich with all the accompaniments. There’s no reason to wait for this indulgence when you retain caterers who can deliver up the sliced bird, along with everything else that makes it a classic. In many ways, turkey sandwich service is even better. It’s freshly sliced and you’ll have a wider range of bread options, such as country, rustic, rye, whole-wheat seeded, wraps, any many more. You can also choose ham, roast beef, and roasted vegetables.

  1. Parade-Viewing and Passed Hors D’oeuvres:

    People consume a massive amount of food people at celebrations throughout the Thanksgiving weekend; some even have multiple meals during the 24 hours of the official holiday. If you’re adventurous, you might consider going light with appetizers in an open house style setting. It’s definitely different, but many of your guests will appreciate the chance to make a toast and nibble on a few bites – rather than sit down for an hours-long affair. Turn on the Macy’s Day Thanksgiving Parade, hire professionals to cater, and enjoy a casual, laid back event.

  1. Let the Pros Do the Cooking:

    When you want someone else to take the lead on every aspect of the Thanksgiving dinner, you can trust New York caterers to deliver everything down to the cranberry relish. Your holiday planning consists of consultation with a catering professional, explaining your needs, and then sitting down to relax as you entertain your guests. Many companies offer a build your own dinner buffet, featuring such options as:

  • Slow roasted turkey, ham, beef, or seafood;
  • Seasonal vegetables, prepared according to your choosing;
  • Different starch options, including mashed or baked potatoes, rice pilaf, pasta, and others;
  • Vegetable and starch salads;
  • Artisan breads;
  • Dessert; and,
  • Beverage service.

The best part is that plates, silverware, service, and related necessities are usually covered with a full service meal.

  1. Channel Your Inner Snoopy:

    Old school Peanuts fans remember “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving,” in which the hapless hero got help from his trusty beagle in fixing up Thanksgiving for friends. On the menu: Popcorn, accompanied by buttered toast, and other garnishes. This classic cartoon gets an upgrade with a popcorn machine themed event, another option that takes the holiday in a totally different, unexpected direction. Plus, steamy kernels covered in butter, cheese, caramel, and other toppings are nice for munching while watching football.

  1. Think Outside the Box:

    As much as we all love it, there may come a time when you crave something that’s distinctly NOT Thanksgiving. Asian fusion food provides a welcome departure. The distinctive flavors and tang are a pleasant departure from the rich, creamy foods associated with a turkey dinner. For example, sushi is a unique, communal experience that gets people in the holiday spirit. In addition, passed appetizers, such as shumai and other Asian dumplings, are easy as finger food. 

  1. Focus on the Sweets:

    If you’re determined to handle the bulk of the Thanksgiving dinner details on your own, nothing should stop you. But once you’ve prepared and carved the turkey, stirred the gravy, and cooked up all the sides, dessert may be the last thing from your mind. Since oven and stove space is usually at a minimum, let someone else do the work. Caterers can work out seasonal or custom menus for your holiday meal, complete with:

  • A cookie platter;
  • Brownies;
  • Festive cupcakes;
  • Exquisite pastries;
  • Fruit skewers; and,
  • Many other favorites.

Our Manhattan Thanksgiving Catering Professionals Can Assist with All Your Holiday Needs

No matter you envision the perfect Thanksgiving dinner for your event, you can count on a skilled catering company to make your dream a reality. To learn about your Thanksgiving dinner options and get more ideas, please contact Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering & Events. We can schedule a consultation to tell you more about our professional services.

Exciting Manhattan Catering Themes for your Upcoming Summer Events


When it comes to event planning, the details can seem endless. Preparing and purchasing the food yourself is an insurmountable task, especially when you have other duties to take care of such as decor, paper products or dishes, place of the event, music, entertainment and so much more. Every aspect of this event needs your attention. The stress that goes into event planning can decrease the overall enjoyment you feel once it takes place. One of the best ways to eliminate the stress of event planning is to have a catering company handle all aspects of the food. This frees up your time to handle all the details that will make your event special and memorable. Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering & Events is just what you need to make those aspects come to life.

No matter the event, we can make it extraordinary

Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering & Events is your experienced Manhattan catering service. Setting the mood of your event with themed food selections and delicious dishes will exceed your expectations. When you need an accomplished caterer, here are some events we frequently cater for:

Corporate events
Weddings
Birthday parties
Funerals
Bat/Bar Mitzvahs
Family reunions
Backyard BBQs
Holiday parties

And more…No matter the occasion, Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering has a theme to set the mood. We can help reduce your stress and anxiety over event planning. We take care of all the difficult aspects of event planning so you can focus on the fun parts.

How to pick the perfect theme

The theme you pick for your Manhattan catering even should match the mood and tone you wish to set at your event. For instance, your wedding might be carefree and casual or fancy and elegant. To create that luxurious feel, the French Connection theme is perfect with our chicken francaise sauteed in lemon beurre blanc sauce accented with rosemary roasted potatoes and French macaroons. Is your wedding a more casual affair? The Hawaiian Luau or Picnic Lunch themes are sure to establish that relaxed, fun and light hearted atmosphere. For birthday parties, the Ice Cream Sundae Bar or Carnival themes are sure to excite all your guests. What party could be more fun than one with a popcorn machine, colorful cotton candy, stuffed animals or candy apples? All these exciting pops of creativity are provided by our experienced and innovative Manhattan catering service.

Much more than delicious food

Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering & Events provides more than just exceptional entrees, side dishes and desserts, we can also take care of other aspects of your event. We are a full service caterer, which means we provide the paper products, black tie waiters and bartenders and even glassware, linen, as well as table and chairs rentals. And if that wasn’t over and above just an ordinary catering company, we also have business relationships with photography, wedding cake, floral and larger equipment rental companies to make event planning that much easier. Our goal is to make your event planning experience an easy one. There is no need for unnecessary anxiety or headaches over your summertime event when you have Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering & Events to assist you.

Unlocking the Secrets of your Refrigerator

If you use your refrigerator in the right way, you can extend the life of your fruits and vegetables and keep you and your family from getting sick. Food poisoning is never something you want to serve with dinner. When it comes to New York Catering, Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering understands food. We want to help you unlock the secrets of your refrigerator. Here are a few tips from the finest New York catering company.

  • Using those Special Drawers: Whether you call it a crisper, humidity drawer, or produce drawer doesn’t matter. What matters is that you use it. Your crisper keeps the humidity a bit higher than the rest of your refrigerator. This added humidity will help keep your lettuce and other vegetables crispy for a lot longer. Avoid mixing fruit with your vegetables. Fruit releases a ripening compound called ethylene gas. When that ripening compound hit vegetables it causes them to ripen and then go bad a lot faster. Crispers are designed to keep the humidity high, while fruit drawers are designed to keep the humidity low. Fruit drawers allow air to escape, which helps reduce the amount of ethylene gas. If you keep your fruit in the fruit drawer, it will last longer. If you have a drawer labeled meats, use it. The drawer will keep your meats colder than the rest of your fridge and they will last longer. Still though, never keep fresh meats in your refrigerator for longer than five days. Ground meats only last two.
  • Shelving in the Doors: Just because the manufacturer made a spot for milk on the door doesn’t mean you should use it. In order to keep you milk longer, keep it on the shelves inside your refrigerator. The reason for this is all about temperature. You see, whenever you or your kids opens the refrigerator, the first place to lose the cold air are the doors. If you milk is stored in the doors, it will be warmer and spoil faster. In addition, always keep the lid on your milk. Otherwise, it might begin tasting like other things in your refrigerator. No one likes oniony milk.
  • Storing Cut Vegetables: Having precut vegetables in your fridge can speed up food preparation times, but not all cut vegetables refrigerate equally. If you are storing onions or garlic, make certain they are in a sealed container, otherwise they might transfer their taste to your other foods. Cauliflower loses its taste quickly after it has been cut. You should avoid storing it in your fridge. If you have store your cauliflower, place the freshly cut clusters on a moist paper towel in your fridge. Just make certain you use it quickly. You can store broccoli and brussel sprouts the same way. Carrots and celery can be cut and placed in an uncovered bowl of water. They will maintain their crisp.
  • When it comes to keeping food fresh and delicious, no one does it better than Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering. When you want the best catering service in New York, you need to give us a call. We can transform any event into a magical memory.

    Thomas Olivers Gourmet Catering
    240 West 35th Street
    New York, NY 10001
    (212) 239-0090

    Get Directions

    How To Make Your Thanksgiving Dinner Memorable

    One tradition that is quickly become a thing of the past in the United States is the traditional, family-style, sit down dinner. In the 1950’s, gathering the family together for the evening meal every day was an essential part of life. However, these days with families being pulled in 100 directions with work, school, after school activities and more, meal planning equals stress thus family dinners have taken a backseat in the American lifestyle. Because of this, sitting down once a year for Thanksgiving dinner can feel somewhat out of the ordinary. For Thanksgiving dinner, you want it to feel special, however it can be difficult to put aside our quick eating American habits, eat slowly and enjoy each other’s company around the holiday feast.

    turkey

    Six things to do for your Thanksgiving dinner

    Whether you’re a group of close knit family members or having a “friendsgiving” with your good buddies, here are a few ideas to keep you entertained around the dinner table and make your NYC catered Thanksgiving feast by Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering the most memorable dinner ever:

    Say a prayer: If your gathering is religious, a prayer of thanks is one of the most popular ways to start a meal. No matter the religion and no matter the god worshipped, prayer is a common way to start the meal.

    Take turns saying what you’re grateful for: Reflecting on your blessings is a great way to set the mood for this holiday about gratitude. Giving everyone the floor to say a few words while you eat livens up meal.

    Play a game: Conversation games are a perfect thing to do around the dinner table and you may be surprised what you learn about those you love!

    Pass around a thankful basket: Hand out paper and pens and have everyone write a few things they’re thankful for, whether serious or funny and then read them out loud.

    Share memories: Go around the table, pick a topic and share good and happy memories you’re thankful for.

    Do a craft: This one is especially fun when kids are at the dinner table. Put a simple craft near each dinner plate and have everyone participate, such as folding an origami turkey. You can even vote on the best and offer a prize.

    Bring back family meal time

    Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering takes the stress out of meal planning, prep and clean up and leaves you with the fun part—spending time with your family. It’s time to bring back family dinner time and we can help you. Our catering options are many and will fit with any event you can dish. We provide healthy, hearty and scrumptious entrees, sides and desserts you will be proud to serve your loved ones. When it comes to your Thanksgiving feast, let us take care of everything. We deliver memorable dishes and mouthwatering courses that you and your guests will swoon over. You create the memories, we create the holiday spread. Contact Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering for your Thanksgiving Day feast.

    Thomas Olivers Gourmet Catering

    240 West 35th Street
    New York,
    NY
    10001

    Phone: (212) 239-0090

    Catering For Your October Festivities

    halloweenfood

    Fall brings a crispness to the air, falling leaves and the obviously spooky and fun holiday at the end of the month. Halloween parties are a great way to gather friends and family for entertainment, food and memories. These holiday events are looked forward to by children and adults alike. What can you do to make it a memorable event? There is much to plan for from the food, games and decorations. Where shall you draw inspiration for creepy, tasty treats and deliciously festive meals? Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering has a few suggestions to get you started.

    Scary DIY treats

    Searching the internet and Pinterest for creative treat ideas will yield some exciting options for your party. It’s a great way to set the mood for guests and will definitely impress the children. Below are a some simple but enticing spooky desserts you could try:

    • Twinkie mummies: Take a twinkie and pipe flat “strips” of frosting back and forth across the twinkie until it is dressed with frosting wrappings. Finish it off with two black candies for eyes.
    • Apple teeth: Begin by slicing red apples. Between two slices, coat the insides with peanut butter. Add mini marshmallows across the bottom slice and then top with the other apple slice.
    • Mummy dogs: Take ready made crescent dough and slice in thin strips. Wrap around hot dogs and bake in the oven according to dough package.
    • Spider eggs: Make deviled eggs. Cut an olive in half and place it on the yellow yolk as the spider body. Slice the other half of the olive into slivers and place 8 of them around the body as legs.
    • Witch hat cookies: Take a thin mint cookie and pipe a dollop of orange frosting on top. Unwrap a kiss candy and put on top of the frosting. Pipe a yellow buckle on the pointed hat. Choose a delicious dinner not to be forgotten.

    Once you’ve created some festive goodies for your guests, it’s important to serve a hearty, scrumptious meal for your guests. If you’re needing catering in Manhattan Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering has many options to fit your event. Pasta with our flavorful marinara sauces set the mood as kids imagine the noodles to be worms. Meat lasagna, pasta primavera or chicken cordon blue with grilled vegetables is warm and comforting. Side dishes such as three cheese baked macaroni, string beans almondine or oven rosemary potatoes are seasoned to perfection. Do not stress about beverages, we provide a wide variety of juices, sodas or iced tea.

    As you focus on the exciting details of your Halloween gathering, leave the meal to us. We take care of the food prep, serving and clean up, which will alleviate your party planning stress. Whatever your craving, Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering can satisfy it and make your Halloween party, wedding dinner, corporate luncheon and more and spectacular one with our delicious and varied menu options.

    Thomas Olivers Gourmet Catering

    240 West 35th Street
    New York,
    NY
    10001

    Phone: (212) 239-0090

    Make Your 2016 Holiday Events Spectacular

    holidaycatering

    As we are coming into the final months of 2016, the excitement of the holidays is palpable. It’s the perfect time to get your friends and family together for reunions or parties. Reconnecting together over delicious meals, making memories that will last a lifetime is what makes the holidays special. These parties don’t plan themselves however. Creating these memorable holiday moments takes preparation and advanced planning. This does not mean you need to work yourself into a frenzy over the details. Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering will take care of the stress so you won’t have to. You can focus on the fun part of party planning such as picking the theme, gathering your guests and decorating to set the mood.

    Delicious food for every occasion

    No matter the holiday this coming fall and winter, we have the perfect food selection to set the mood and wow your guests. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

    Halloween: If you are planning a fun costume party this fall, the Carnival themed food is a perfect fit with sweet candy apples, tasty pretzel and popcorn machines, cotton candy on a cone and ice cold cans of soda. This theme has that scent of fall you’re looking for.

    Thanksgiving: You don’t feel like slaving over the stove this holiday? Well, take a break! Enjoy conversations with your family and friends rather than stressing over the food. Selecting our buffet stations is the perfect fit for your Thanksgiving meal. Hand-carved turkey breast with flavorful sage stuffing and our tender honey butter carrots are just a few examples of dishes that your guests will rave about.

    Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanza: These holidays are the perfect excuse to gather your favorite people together. The French Connection meal offers savory chicken franciose and sliced sirloin steak with roasted rosemary potatoes and string beans almondine. But let’s not forget desserts! Every themed meal comes with rich, elegant desserts to compliment your event.

    New Year’s Eve/Day: What better way to ring in the new year than with an exciting dinner display. The Mardi Gras theme with blackened catfish, chorizo sausage rice and French macaroons is an excellent choice. Fancy an Italian flair? How about our chicken parmigiana and mini canolis with The Godfather meal? We have many selections that will enhance your holiday celebrations.

    Leave the dirty details to us

    The hardest part of party planning is the meal preparations, set up and clean up. If you could have a party and have these unfavorable chores taken care of, wouldn’t you enjoy the party even more? Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering provides everything you need for set up like tablecloths and paper goods. We also have options for equipment rentals should that be something you need. And when the party is done, we take the mess with us. No dishes to wash and very little clean up means less headache for you and more time you can spend with your loved ones. Let Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering take care of your holiday meals this coming season, you won’t regret it!

    Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering

    240 West 35th Street
    New York,
    NY
    10001

    Phone: (212) 239-0090

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    General Info

    Thomas Oliver's Gourmet Catering & Events

    240 West 35th Street,
    New York, NY 10001
    Phone: (212) 239-0090
    Cell: (646) 335-6310
    Fax: (212) 239-0092

    Delivery Hours:
    7 Days a Week 8:00am to 8:00pm

    We Cater 7 days a week all over 5 Boroughs throughout NYC including: Manhattan, Staten Island, Queens, Bronx & Brooklyn, New York

     

    Category Archives: Holiday Catering

    Thanksgiving Dinner by Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering

    While food is an attractive for almost every holiday, few would dispute that the meal is the main attraction when it comes to Thanksgiving. There are countless age-old traditions associated with the festivities in the US, but plenty of new institutions have also crept into the holiday picture over the years. Anyone involved in planning an event must consider a wide range of options that will make a memorable impression on guests. When you retain New York holiday and event catering services, you have an edge on achieving this objective. A few Thanksgiving dinner ideas should get you started.

    1. Thanksgiving in Sandwich Form:

      For many people, the best part of Thanksgiving is the meals you make with the leftovers – especially the iconic turkey sandwich with all the accompaniments. There’s no reason to wait for this indulgence when you retain caterers who can deliver up the sliced bird, along with everything else that makes it a classic. In many ways, turkey sandwich service is even better. It’s freshly sliced and you’ll have a wider range of bread options, such as country, rustic, rye, whole-wheat seeded, wraps, any many more. You can also choose ham, roast beef, and roasted vegetables.

    1. Parade-Viewing and Passed Hors D’oeuvres:

      People consume a massive amount of food people at celebrations throughout the Thanksgiving weekend; some even have multiple meals during the 24 hours of the official holiday. If you’re adventurous, you might consider going light with appetizers in an open house style setting. It’s definitely different, but many of your guests will appreciate the chance to make a toast and nibble on a few bites – rather than sit down for an hours-long affair. Turn on the Macy’s Day Thanksgiving Parade, hire professionals to cater, and enjoy a casual, laid back event.

    1. Let the Pros Do the Cooking:

      When you want someone else to take the lead on every aspect of the Thanksgiving dinner, you can trust New York caterers to deliver everything down to the cranberry relish. Your holiday planning consists of consultation with a catering professional, explaining your needs, and then sitting down to relax as you entertain your guests. Many companies offer a build your own dinner buffet, featuring such options as:

    • Slow roasted turkey, ham, beef, or seafood;
    • Seasonal vegetables, prepared according to your choosing;
    • Different starch options, including mashed or baked potatoes, rice pilaf, pasta, and others;
    • Vegetable and starch salads;
    • Artisan breads;
    • Dessert; and,
    • Beverage service.

    The best part is that plates, silverware, service, and related necessities are usually covered with a full service meal.

    1. Channel Your Inner Snoopy:

      Old school Peanuts fans remember “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving,” in which the hapless hero got help from his trusty beagle in fixing up Thanksgiving for friends. On the menu: Popcorn, accompanied by buttered toast, and other garnishes. This classic cartoon gets an upgrade with a popcorn machine themed event, another option that takes the holiday in a totally different, unexpected direction. Plus, steamy kernels covered in butter, cheese, caramel, and other toppings are nice for munching while watching football.

    1. Think Outside the Box:

      As much as we all love it, there may come a time when you crave something that’s distinctly NOT Thanksgiving. Asian fusion food provides a welcome departure. The distinctive flavors and tang are a pleasant departure from the rich, creamy foods associated with a turkey dinner. For example, sushi is a unique, communal experience that gets people in the holiday spirit. In addition, passed appetizers, such as shumai and other Asian dumplings, are easy as finger food. 

    1. Focus on the Sweets:

      If you’re determined to handle the bulk of the Thanksgiving dinner details on your own, nothing should stop you. But once you’ve prepared and carved the turkey, stirred the gravy, and cooked up all the sides, dessert may be the last thing from your mind. Since oven and stove space is usually at a minimum, let someone else do the work. Caterers can work out seasonal or custom menus for your holiday meal, complete with:

    • A cookie platter;
    • Brownies;
    • Festive cupcakes;
    • Exquisite pastries;
    • Fruit skewers; and,
    • Many other favorites.

    Our Manhattan Thanksgiving Catering Professionals Can Assist with All Your Holiday Needs

    No matter you envision the perfect Thanksgiving dinner for your event, you can count on a skilled catering company to make your dream a reality. To learn about your Thanksgiving dinner options and get more ideas, please contact Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering & Events. We can schedule a consultation to tell you more about our professional services.

    Exciting Manhattan Catering Themes for your Upcoming Summer Events


    When it comes to event planning, the details can seem endless. Preparing and purchasing the food yourself is an insurmountable task, especially when you have other duties to take care of such as decor, paper products or dishes, place of the event, music, entertainment and so much more. Every aspect of this event needs your attention. The stress that goes into event planning can decrease the overall enjoyment you feel once it takes place. One of the best ways to eliminate the stress of event planning is to have a catering company handle all aspects of the food. This frees up your time to handle all the details that will make your event special and memorable. Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering & Events is just what you need to make those aspects come to life.

    No matter the event, we can make it extraordinary

    Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering & Events is your experienced Manhattan catering service. Setting the mood of your event with themed food selections and delicious dishes will exceed your expectations. When you need an accomplished caterer, here are some events we frequently cater for:

    Corporate events
    Weddings
    Birthday parties
    Funerals
    Bat/Bar Mitzvahs
    Family reunions
    Backyard BBQs
    Holiday parties

    And more…No matter the occasion, Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering has a theme to set the mood. We can help reduce your stress and anxiety over event planning. We take care of all the difficult aspects of event planning so you can focus on the fun parts.

    How to pick the perfect theme

    The theme you pick for your Manhattan catering even should match the mood and tone you wish to set at your event. For instance, your wedding might be carefree and casual or fancy and elegant. To create that luxurious feel, the French Connection theme is perfect with our chicken francaise sauteed in lemon beurre blanc sauce accented with rosemary roasted potatoes and French macaroons. Is your wedding a more casual affair? The Hawaiian Luau or Picnic Lunch themes are sure to establish that relaxed, fun and light hearted atmosphere. For birthday parties, the Ice Cream Sundae Bar or Carnival themes are sure to excite all your guests. What party could be more fun than one with a popcorn machine, colorful cotton candy, stuffed animals or candy apples? All these exciting pops of creativity are provided by our experienced and innovative Manhattan catering service.

    Much more than delicious food

    Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering & Events provides more than just exceptional entrees, side dishes and desserts, we can also take care of other aspects of your event. We are a full service caterer, which means we provide the paper products, black tie waiters and bartenders and even glassware, linen, as well as table and chairs rentals. And if that wasn’t over and above just an ordinary catering company, we also have business relationships with photography, wedding cake, floral and larger equipment rental companies to make event planning that much easier. Our goal is to make your event planning experience an easy one. There is no need for unnecessary anxiety or headaches over your summertime event when you have Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering & Events to assist you.

    Unlocking the Secrets of your Refrigerator

    If you use your refrigerator in the right way, you can extend the life of your fruits and vegetables and keep you and your family from getting sick. Food poisoning is never something you want to serve with dinner. When it comes to New York Catering, Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering understands food. We want to help you unlock the secrets of your refrigerator. Here are a few tips from the finest New York catering company.

  • Using those Special Drawers: Whether you call it a crisper, humidity drawer, or produce drawer doesn’t matter. What matters is that you use it. Your crisper keeps the humidity a bit higher than the rest of your refrigerator. This added humidity will help keep your lettuce and other vegetables crispy for a lot longer. Avoid mixing fruit with your vegetables. Fruit releases a ripening compound called ethylene gas. When that ripening compound hit vegetables it causes them to ripen and then go bad a lot faster. Crispers are designed to keep the humidity high, while fruit drawers are designed to keep the humidity low. Fruit drawers allow air to escape, which helps reduce the amount of ethylene gas. If you keep your fruit in the fruit drawer, it will last longer. If you have a drawer labeled meats, use it. The drawer will keep your meats colder than the rest of your fridge and they will last longer. Still though, never keep fresh meats in your refrigerator for longer than five days. Ground meats only last two.
  • Shelving in the Doors: Just because the manufacturer made a spot for milk on the door doesn’t mean you should use it. In order to keep you milk longer, keep it on the shelves inside your refrigerator. The reason for this is all about temperature. You see, whenever you or your kids opens the refrigerator, the first place to lose the cold air are the doors. If you milk is stored in the doors, it will be warmer and spoil faster. In addition, always keep the lid on your milk. Otherwise, it might begin tasting like other things in your refrigerator. No one likes oniony milk.
  • Storing Cut Vegetables: Having precut vegetables in your fridge can speed up food preparation times, but not all cut vegetables refrigerate equally. If you are storing onions or garlic, make certain they are in a sealed container, otherwise they might transfer their taste to your other foods. Cauliflower loses its taste quickly after it has been cut. You should avoid storing it in your fridge. If you have store your cauliflower, place the freshly cut clusters on a moist paper towel in your fridge. Just make certain you use it quickly. You can store broccoli and brussel sprouts the same way. Carrots and celery can be cut and placed in an uncovered bowl of water. They will maintain their crisp.
  • When it comes to keeping food fresh and delicious, no one does it better than Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering. When you want the best catering service in New York, you need to give us a call. We can transform any event into a magical memory.

    Thomas Olivers Gourmet Catering
    240 West 35th Street
    New York, NY 10001
    (212) 239-0090

    Get Directions

    How To Make Your Thanksgiving Dinner Memorable

    One tradition that is quickly become a thing of the past in the United States is the traditional, family-style, sit down dinner. In the 1950’s, gathering the family together for the evening meal every day was an essential part of life. However, these days with families being pulled in 100 directions with work, school, after school activities and more, meal planning equals stress thus family dinners have taken a backseat in the American lifestyle. Because of this, sitting down once a year for Thanksgiving dinner can feel somewhat out of the ordinary. For Thanksgiving dinner, you want it to feel special, however it can be difficult to put aside our quick eating American habits, eat slowly and enjoy each other’s company around the holiday feast.

    turkey

    Six things to do for your Thanksgiving dinner

    Whether you’re a group of close knit family members or having a “friendsgiving” with your good buddies, here are a few ideas to keep you entertained around the dinner table and make your NYC catered Thanksgiving feast by Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering the most memorable dinner ever:

    Say a prayer: If your gathering is religious, a prayer of thanks is one of the most popular ways to start a meal. No matter the religion and no matter the god worshipped, prayer is a common way to start the meal.

    Take turns saying what you’re grateful for: Reflecting on your blessings is a great way to set the mood for this holiday about gratitude. Giving everyone the floor to say a few words while you eat livens up meal.

    Play a game: Conversation games are a perfect thing to do around the dinner table and you may be surprised what you learn about those you love!

    Pass around a thankful basket: Hand out paper and pens and have everyone write a few things they’re thankful for, whether serious or funny and then read them out loud.

    Share memories: Go around the table, pick a topic and share good and happy memories you’re thankful for.

    Do a craft: This one is especially fun when kids are at the dinner table. Put a simple craft near each dinner plate and have everyone participate, such as folding an origami turkey. You can even vote on the best and offer a prize.

    Bring back family meal time

    Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering takes the stress out of meal planning, prep and clean up and leaves you with the fun part—spending time with your family. It’s time to bring back family dinner time and we can help you. Our catering options are many and will fit with any event you can dish. We provide healthy, hearty and scrumptious entrees, sides and desserts you will be proud to serve your loved ones. When it comes to your Thanksgiving feast, let us take care of everything. We deliver memorable dishes and mouthwatering courses that you and your guests will swoon over. You create the memories, we create the holiday spread. Contact Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering for your Thanksgiving Day feast.

    Thomas Olivers Gourmet Catering

    240 West 35th Street
    New York,
    NY
    10001

    Phone: (212) 239-0090

    Catering For Your October Festivities

    halloweenfood

    Fall brings a crispness to the air, falling leaves and the obviously spooky and fun holiday at the end of the month. Halloween parties are a great way to gather friends and family for entertainment, food and memories. These holiday events are looked forward to by children and adults alike. What can you do to make it a memorable event? There is much to plan for from the food, games and decorations. Where shall you draw inspiration for creepy, tasty treats and deliciously festive meals? Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering has a few suggestions to get you started.

    Scary DIY treats

    Searching the internet and Pinterest for creative treat ideas will yield some exciting options for your party. It’s a great way to set the mood for guests and will definitely impress the children. Below are a some simple but enticing spooky desserts you could try:

    • Twinkie mummies: Take a twinkie and pipe flat “strips” of frosting back and forth across the twinkie until it is dressed with frosting wrappings. Finish it off with two black candies for eyes.
    • Apple teeth: Begin by slicing red apples. Between two slices, coat the insides with peanut butter. Add mini marshmallows across the bottom slice and then top with the other apple slice.
    • Mummy dogs: Take ready made crescent dough and slice in thin strips. Wrap around hot dogs and bake in the oven according to dough package.
    • Spider eggs: Make deviled eggs. Cut an olive in half and place it on the yellow yolk as the spider body. Slice the other half of the olive into slivers and place 8 of them around the body as legs.
    • Witch hat cookies: Take a thin mint cookie and pipe a dollop of orange frosting on top. Unwrap a kiss candy and put on top of the frosting. Pipe a yellow buckle on the pointed hat. Choose a delicious dinner not to be forgotten.

    Once you’ve created some festive goodies for your guests, it’s important to serve a hearty, scrumptious meal for your guests. If you’re needing catering in Manhattan Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering has many options to fit your event. Pasta with our flavorful marinara sauces set the mood as kids imagine the noodles to be worms. Meat lasagna, pasta primavera or chicken cordon blue with grilled vegetables is warm and comforting. Side dishes such as three cheese baked macaroni, string beans almondine or oven rosemary potatoes are seasoned to perfection. Do not stress about beverages, we provide a wide variety of juices, sodas or iced tea.

    As you focus on the exciting details of your Halloween gathering, leave the meal to us. We take care of the food prep, serving and clean up, which will alleviate your party planning stress. Whatever your craving, Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering can satisfy it and make your Halloween party, wedding dinner, corporate luncheon and more and spectacular one with our delicious and varied menu options.

    Thomas Olivers Gourmet Catering

    240 West 35th Street
    New York,
    NY
    10001

    Phone: (212) 239-0090

    Make Your 2016 Holiday Events Spectacular

    holidaycatering

    As we are coming into the final months of 2016, the excitement of the holidays is palpable. It’s the perfect time to get your friends and family together for reunions or parties. Reconnecting together over delicious meals, making memories that will last a lifetime is what makes the holidays special. These parties don’t plan themselves however. Creating these memorable holiday moments takes preparation and advanced planning. This does not mean you need to work yourself into a frenzy over the details. Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering will take care of the stress so you won’t have to. You can focus on the fun part of party planning such as picking the theme, gathering your guests and decorating to set the mood.

    Delicious food for every occasion

    No matter the holiday this coming fall and winter, we have the perfect food selection to set the mood and wow your guests. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

    Halloween: If you are planning a fun costume party this fall, the Carnival themed food is a perfect fit with sweet candy apples, tasty pretzel and popcorn machines, cotton candy on a cone and ice cold cans of soda. This theme has that scent of fall you’re looking for.

    Thanksgiving: You don’t feel like slaving over the stove this holiday? Well, take a break! Enjoy conversations with your family and friends rather than stressing over the food. Selecting our buffet stations is the perfect fit for your Thanksgiving meal. Hand-carved turkey breast with flavorful sage stuffing and our tender honey butter carrots are just a few examples of dishes that your guests will rave about.

    Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanza: These holidays are the perfect excuse to gather your favorite people together. The French Connection meal offers savory chicken franciose and sliced sirloin steak with roasted rosemary potatoes and string beans almondine. But let’s not forget desserts! Every themed meal comes with rich, elegant desserts to compliment your event.

    New Year’s Eve/Day: What better way to ring in the new year than with an exciting dinner display. The Mardi Gras theme with blackened catfish, chorizo sausage rice and French macaroons is an excellent choice. Fancy an Italian flair? How about our chicken parmigiana and mini canolis with The Godfather meal? We have many selections that will enhance your holiday celebrations.

    Leave the dirty details to us

    The hardest part of party planning is the meal preparations, set up and clean up. If you could have a party and have these unfavorable chores taken care of, wouldn’t you enjoy the party even more? Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering provides everything you need for set up like tablecloths and paper goods. We also have options for equipment rentals should that be something you need. And when the party is done, we take the mess with us. No dishes to wash and very little clean up means less headache for you and more time you can spend with your loved ones. Let Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering take care of your holiday meals this coming season, you won’t regret it!

    Thomas Oliver’s Gourmet Catering

    240 West 35th Street
    New York,
    NY
    10001

    Phone: (212) 239-0090