Everything You Need to Know — Fast Answers to Your Questions”
Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions page — your go-to resource for quick, clear answers about our services, venues, and catering experiences. Whether you're planning a private event, checking on our weekly dinner schedule, or curious about how our catering works, we’ve organized everything here to help you get the information you need.
Explore the topics on the right to jump directly to what matters most to you. Still need help? We’re just a call or email away — we’re here to help you make your experience with Christopher’s seamless and memorable.
🏛️ General Questions
Helpful info about our business hours, policies, contact methods, and how to get started with Christopher’s.
1. What services does Christopher’s offer?
We specialize in full-service catering, private parties and venue rentals, and unique weekly dining experiences. From corporate events to weddings to pop-up dinners, we bring people together through food.
2. Do you provide on-site staff for catering events?
Yes! We offer flexible staffing options depending on the style of your event—whether it’s drop-off catering, buffet service, or a fully staffed plated dinner. Just let us know what you need.
3. How far in advance should I book catering or a venue?
We recommend booking at least 4–6 weeks in advance for most events. Our schedule is on a “first come - first serve” basis, so, popular dates (especially holidays and weekends) fill up quickly, so the sooner the better!
4. Can I customize a menu for my event?
Absolutely. We love working with clients to build menus that fit your taste, theme, and budget. Many of our menus offer mix-and-match flexibility or themed customization.
5. What if I have dietary restrictions or special requests?
No problem! We regularly accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-sensitive menus. Just let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly.
🍽️ Catering Services
Everything you need to know about full-service catering, menu customization, dietary needs, delivery options, and more.
1. Do you offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner catering?
Yes, we cater all types of meals—from hearty breakfasts to elegant plated dinners. You can browse our full menu categories online.
2. What is a “Grazing” or “Action” Station?
These interactive food stations let guests choose their own ingredients—perfect for casual gatherings, budget-friendly events, or themed parties.
3. Can I order just desserts or appetizers?
Of course! Our desserts and hors d’oeuvres can be ordered a la carte for any event or added on to a larger menu.
4. Are printed menus or labels included?
Yes! We provide menu signage and clear labeling for every dish. We can also include dietary needs like GF, V, etc., especially for buffets and stations.
5. Can I see sample menus before ordering?
Yes. Each category on our catering page links to a downloadable PDF with sample menu items and pricing details.
🏠 Private Dining & The Catering House
FAQs about hosting events at our charming Catering House location for up to 40 guests.
1. What is The Catering House?
The Catering House (originally our restaurant) is our intimate dining and event space, perfect for small gatherings, celebrations, and private meals for up to 40 guests.
2. Can I reserve the entire space for a private party?
Yes! The entire Catering House can be reserved for private events like showers, birthdays, team lunches, or business dinners.
3. Is there a minimum spend or guest count?
Our approach is quite simple. Most the time the “rent” is free! We don’t require a minimum guest count, but instead, we only charge a minimum spend for the time reserved, based on the day and time. We’ll work with your needs and budget.
4. Can I bring my own cake, wine, or decor?
We allow outside desserts and decor. For wine and other beverages, give us a heads-up—we'll help you meet any requirements.
5. Do you offer custom menus for private events?
Yes! We love customizing menus for your event theme, dietary needs, or preferences. Our team will help make your meal unforgettable.
6. Can you rent the Catering House without Christopher’s catering the food and beverages?
ABSOLUTELY! Because we charge rent as a minimum spend, it doesn’t matter if we provide the food or not. Just makes a lot more sense for everyone if we do!
🎉 Fridays at The GEM
Info on our rotating Friday Night Theme Dinners, hosted at our elegant event facility.
1. What are "Fridays at The GEM"?
These are themed Friday night dinners hosted at The GEM by Christopher’s. Each week features a new menu and experience.
2. Do I need reservations for Friday nights?
Reservations are REQUIRED for our buffet style, theme dinners, BUT, not for the Pop Up Grill Events. We also can make special arrangements for your group. Get registered early for theme dinners as we tend to sell out!
3. Where is The GEM located?
The GEM is located at 3425 Valley Street, Dayton, OH—just a few minutes from our main restaurant location. Minutes from The Wright Patterson AF Museum and just down the street from Stebbins High School. Conveniently located close to Highway 4.
4. What type of meals are served?
Themes range from Italian Night to Southern Comfort, Seafood Boils to Family-Style Favorites. Check the website weekly!
5. Can I rent The GEM for private events?
Absolutely. The GEM is available for weddings, corporate events, reunions, and more. We offer full-service catering on-site.
🌞 Wednesday Gatherings
Details about our weekly them dinners, outdoor Red Top Pop-Up Grill nights and summer community nights.
1. What is a Wednesday Gathering?
Each Wednesday, we open up for a special event at our Linden Ave location. It’s a casual, fun evening of great food and community.
2. Do I need a ticket or reservation?
Nope! Just stop by, dine in or take out. It’s first-come, first-served until we run out of the weekly feature.
3. What kind of food is served?
Each week features a different specialty—like grilled sandwiches, BBQ, home cooked favorites, prime rib, salmon or themed street foods. Follow us online for updates.
4. Can I bring my family or group?
Yes! These nights are great for families, co-workers, or anyone who enjoys great food and a laid-back atmosphere. Many are even done, “family style”.
5. Where does it take place?
Right at our restaurant location: 4211 Linden Avenue, Dayton, OH.
🍔 Red Top Pop-Up Grill
Get answers on our mobile food trailer offerings, pop-up schedules, and seasonal menu items.
1. What is the Red Top Pop-Up Grill?
It’s our mobile food concept—bringing classic American flavors like pork chop sandwiches, steak burgers, and seasonal sides to events.
2. Where does the pop-up set up?
Primarily at our own venues (Wednesdays and Fridays), but we also appear at festivals, company parties, and public gatherings.
3. Can I hire the Red Top Grill for a private event?
Yes! We’d love to bring the grill to your location. Contact us for details and availability.
4. What’s the story behind the “Red Top”?
It’s named after our signature red canopy’s! —designed for fast service, great visibility, and the bold flavors we’re known for.
5. Is the menu customizable for my event?
Absolutely. We’ll build a menu that suits your crowd and budget, from sandwiches to dessert add-ons.
🍰 Desserts & Special Orders
Explore options for whole and individual desserts, custom treats for events, and how to order them.
1. Do you make desserts in-house?
Yes! Our desserts are made from scratch, including pies, cakes, mini desserts, and seasonal favorites.
2. Can I order desserts separately from catering?
Absolutely. We sell desserts a la carte for holidays, office parties, weddings, and everyday indulgence.
3. Do you offer individual and whole dessert options?
Yes—we offer both single-serve desserts and full trays or whole cakes for events. You can also order whole desserts for pick up!
4. Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
We offer gluten-free and nut-free dessert options. Let us know your needs, and we’ll suggest the best fit.
5. How far in advance do I need to order?
For small orders, 48 hours is usually enough. For larger custom orders or holidays, we recommend at least 5–7 days’ notice.
📍 Venue Partnerships
Learn more about venues we cater at, and what that means to you
1. Do you cater at venues outside your own?
Yes! Over the past 30+ years we have developed long-standing relationships with local venues throughout Dayton and beyond
2. Can you help me find the right venue for my event?
We’d be happy to. We know the ins and outs of dozens of great spaces and can recommend one based on your style, size, and budget.
3. Do you have preferred venue partners?
Yes—we frequently cater at venues like The Brightside, Polen Farm, Bicentennial Barn, Reverie, Cedar Springs Pavilion,Magnolia Estates, Rosewood Manor, Canopy Creek and many more!
4. Are there extra fees for off-site catering?
NBO, however, some venues charge the caterer a fee ranging from 10-20% of food and beverage. When our guests choose a venue that has that policy, we do add it on to their invoice. The only “extra” fee for off-site catering is we do charge a trip fee. We’ll give you a full quote up front with no surprises.
5. Can I provide my own venue and just use your catering?
Absolutely! Whether it’s a church, a park, or your backyard—we’ll bring the food and staff to you.