Flat 51 Catering Guidelines

Flat 51 is proud to partner with trusted catering vendors to deliver memorable experiences in our event spaces. To ensure smooth operations and consistent service, please review and adhere to the following guidelines:

1. Vendor Approval

  • All catering vendors must be approved in advance by Flat 51 management.

  • Proof of the following is required at least 30 days prior to the event:

    • Current business license

    • Health department certification (if applicable)

    • Certificate of Insurance (COI) with a minimum of $1M general liability

  • Alcohol service must comply with state/local liquor laws and be performed by licensed bartenders when applicable. If a cash bar is being utilized, the caterer will have to provide us with their liquor license. If the event hosts are providing the alcohol and giving it away to their guests, a liquor license is not required, as there is no sale of alcohol.

2. Arrival & Load-In

  • Vendors may begin load-in no earlier than the contracted event start time

  • All deliveries and load-in must take place through designated entrances

  • Vendors are responsible for providing their own carts, dollies, and staff for load-in and load-out

  • No catering items may be placed in the hallway or common areas of the building

3. Kitchen & Equipment Use

  • Flat 51 provides a kitchen with a 20 tray warming oven, refrigerator, sink and countertop space. There is no on-site cooking allowed.

  • Flat 51 contracts with an ice delivery company. Any ice in the cooler MUST be pre-ordered.

  • Vendors must bring all necessary equipment (chafers, serving utensils, hot boxes, etc.).

  • Open flames, fryers, and propane equipment are strictly prohibited inside the building.

  • 4. Staffing & Service

  • Vendors must provide sufficient staff to ensure smooth service, including:

    • Catering attendants for food setup and breakdown

    • Bartenders (if applicable)

    • Cleanup staff for catering-related areas

  • Flat 51 staff are not responsible for food service, bussing, or dishwashing.

5. Clean-Up & Load-Out

  • Vendors are required to:

    • Remove all food, beverages, trash, and equipment immediately following the event to the dumpster directly behind the building.

    • Leave prep, service, and event spaces in the same condition as found.

  • Trash must be bagged and placed in designated disposal areas.

  • Failure to comply with cleanup standards may result in additional cleaning fees charged to the client.

6. Safety & Compliance

  • All vendors must comply with fire, health, and safety regulations.

  • No blocking or use of fire exits, hallways, or access routes.

  • Children under 16 are not permitted in catering work areas.

7. Deliveries & Rentals

  • All rental items (tables, chairs, linens, etc.) must be arranged and confirmed with Flat 51 prior to delivery.

  • Vendors must coordinate delivery and pickup schedules with the client and Flat 51 management.

8. Damage & Liability

  • Vendors are financially responsible for any damage caused to Flat 51 property or equipment.

  • Flat 51 is not liable for lost or stolen items brought in by vendors.

9. Timing & Communication

  • Vendors must adhere to the event timeline agreed upon with the client.

  • A point of contact for the vendor must be available onsite at all times.

  • Last-minute changes must be communicated directly to Flat 51 management.

10. Fees & Penalties

  • Flat 51 reserves the right to charge additional fees for:

    • Excessive cleanup

    • Overtime use of space outside contracted hours