caterer

noun

1. A person employed to obtain and maintain the storage of provisions, especially food.

   “1821 June 19, ”Peregrine,” The Traveller: Letter IV, in The Kaleidoscope; Or, Literary and Scientific Mirror, page 401, It was in vain that I petitioned, appealing to our caterer, if proofs of appetite were wanting; for sick men seldom have occasion for that important person′s services.”

   ““I say, Mr. Cribbage,” cried an old master′s-mate, to the caterer, who had entered shortly after the tea-kettles, and assumed his place at the end of the table, “what sort of stuff do you call this?””

   “There is a caterer for the table, whose sleekness of face, rotundity of person, and general air of comfortable well-being, do great honor to the cheer he provides.”

2. A person or company hired to provide and serve food, usually for a large group and at a location separate from where the food is prepared.

   “If so, you will probably sign a contract with a caterer months, maybe years, in advance and make a substantial down payment.”

   “1994, John N. Ingham, Lynne B. Feldman, Dutrieuille, Peter Albert (1838—1916) and Albert E. Dutrieuille (July 26, 1877—April 25, 1974), entry in African-American Business Leaders: A Biographical Dictionary, page 225, From a family of French West African descent, Albert Dutrieuille was the last of the great African-American caterers in Philadelphia.”

   “Although many hotels work with outside Kosher caterers to provide Kosher services, some have developed their own in-house Kosher catering departments.”