Step 1 — Know Your Group Size and Dietary Mix

The starting point for any catering order is headcount and dietary requirements. Before you call or submit an inquiry, have these numbers ready:

• Total number of guests
• Number of vegetarians or vegans
• Any known allergies (nuts, shellfish, gluten)
• Spice preference of the group — mild, mixed, or open to heat

For mixed groups, a Thai spread works naturally. Dishes like Panang Curry and Pad Thai are mild and universally loved. Drunken Noodles or Tiger Cry can sit alongside them for guests who want more heat — everyone gets what they want without a separate menu.

Step 2 — Choose the Right Dishes

A well-balanced catering spread for a corporate lunch or party typically includes three to four main dishes, one or two starters, and rice on the side. Here is what we recommend for different group sizes:

Groups of 10–20

• 2 main dishes (e.g. Pad Thai + Panang Curry)
• 1 starter (Spring Rolls or Chicken Satay)
• Jasmine rice

Groups of 20–50

• 3 main dishes (e.g. Pad Thai + Panang Curry + Drunken Noodles)
• 2 starters (Sampler platter works well)
• Jasmine rice + Pineapple Fried Rice for variety

Groups of 50+

• 4–5 main dishes covering noodles, curry, and a BBQ option like Tiger Cry
• 3 starters
• Rice + noodle sides
• Add desserts — Mango Sticky Rice or Coconut Ice Cream for a memorable finish

Step 3 — Decide on Pickup or Delivery

Takhrai Thai offers both pickup and delivery for catering orders. For most office catering in Poway and Scripps Ranch, pickup is quick and keeps food at its freshest. For larger events or if your office is further away, delivery is available — confirm your address and event time when booking.

Step 4 — Book Early Enough

For most catering orders, 48 to 72 hours notice is enough. For large events, weddings, or bookings around peak dates (Thanksgiving week, end-of-year parties), give us at least one to two weeks. We do our best to accommodate last-minute requests — just call and ask.

Step 5 — Make It Look Good

Thai food is naturally photogenic. Pineapple Fried Rice served in the pineapple shell, a colourful curry spread, golden spring rolls — a well-laid-out Thai spread tends to generate compliments before anyone has taken a bite. Ask us about presentation options when you book.

How to Book Catering with Takhrai Thai

Call us at (858) 549-1848 or visit our main catering page to submit an inquiry form. We respond the same day on business days. For corporate bookings, visit our corporate catering page for more specific information on office events.