se habla Español 
One of the most stressful parts of planning any major event—whether it’s a wedding reception, a quinceañera, or a corporate gala—is the menu, especially when coordinating professional event catering. You want the food to be memorable, delicious, and plentiful. You want your guests to rave about the appetizers and go back for seconds at the buffet. But nothing dampens the mood of a celebration faster than a guest realizing there is nothing safe or suitable for them to eat.
Dietary restrictions are no longer the exception; they are the norm. From lifestyle choices like veganism to serious medical necessities like celiac disease, modern hosts must navigate a complex landscape of food requirements. It can feel overwhelming to try and please everyone without compromising the quality or cohesion of your meal.
At Sepan Banquet Hall in Glendale, we believe that every guest deserves a fantastic culinary experience, regardless of their dietary restrictions. Food is the heart of any celebration, and no one should feel left out of the feast. Our experienced event catering team has compiled this guide to help you plan a menu that is safe, inclusive, and absolutely delicious.
Understanding the Modern Guest List
Before diving into specific accommodations, it helps to understand why this matters. In the past, a “special meal” might have been a bland plate of steamed vegetables served while everyone else enjoyed a gourmet steak. Today, thoughtful event catering ensures every guest enjoys flavorful and satisfying dishes.
Today, guests expect—and deserve—meals that are just as thoughtful and flavorful as the standard menu. Accommodating these needs isn’t just about checking a box; it is about hospitality. It shows your friends and family that you respect their values, health, and safety. When you partner with a versatile venue, you don’t have to stress about the logistics. The culinary team handles the ingredients and preparation, leaving you to enjoy the party.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dietary Accommodations
We receive many inquiries about how our kitchen handles specific dietary needs. Here is a breakdown of how we ensure every plate is perfect, combining careful preparation with reliable event catering practices that prioritize both safety and taste.
Do you offer vegetarian and vegan options?
Absolutely. In fact, many dishes in traditional Mediterranean and Armenian cuisine—which influences much of our menu—are naturally plant-based. We don’t view vegetarian or vegan food as an afterthought; we see it as an opportunity to showcase fresh produce, vibrant herbs, and robust spices.
Vegetarian: For guests who avoid meat but eat dairy and eggs, options are plentiful. From rich cheese boreks to creamy pastas and elaborate salads, vegetarian guests often have as much variety as meat-eaters.
Vegan: For those who avoid all animal products, we offer dishes that are hearty and satisfying. We can prepare roasted vegetable medleys, Hummus, stuffed vine leaves (dolma), and grain-based pilafs that are entirely free of meat, dairy, and honey. We ensure these meals are flavorful and filling so your vegan guests don’t feel like they are just eating “sides.”
Can you accommodate Halal dietary laws?
Yes, we can. We understand that for our Muslim clients and guests, Halal is not a preference but a religious requirement. It dictates not only what creates the meal (no pork or alcohol) but also how the meat is sourced and prepared.
If you require a Halal menu, please discuss this with us during your initial consultation. We can source Halal-certified meats and ensure that the preparation process respects these dietary laws. Our goal is to provide a seamless dining experience where your guests can eat with confidence and peace of mind.
How do you handle gluten-free requirements?
Gluten-free dining is critical for guests with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. Gluten hides in surprising places—soy sauce, thickeners in soups, and even spice blends.
At Sepan Banquet Hall, we are experienced in identifying gluten sources and creating safe alternatives.
- Naturally Gluten-Free: Many of our grilled meats, rice dishes, and salads are naturally free of gluten.
- Substitutions: We can often adapt recipes to use gluten-free alternatives without sacrificing taste or texture.
Note: If you have a guest with a severe, life-threatening allergy (anaphylaxis), please let our management team know explicitly so we can take extra precautions regarding cross-contamination in the kitchen.
What about common allergies like nuts or dairy?
Food allergies are a serious safety concern. During the planning process, we encourage you to highlight common allergens.
- Nut-Free: We can design menus that avoid peanuts and tree nuts.
- Dairy-Free: Similar to our vegan options, we can prepare dishes using oil instead of butter and avoid cheese or cream-based sauces.
Communication is key. The earlier we know about severe allergies, the better we can prepare the kitchen staff to handle your event safely.
Tips for the Host: Managing Dietary Requests
While we handle the cooking, you handle the guest list. Here are a few tips on how to manage dietary data without getting a headache.
Ask Early
Don’t wait until the week of the wedding to find out your Maid of Honor is vegan. Include a line on your RSVP card or your wedding website that says: “Please let us know of any dietary restrictions or allergies.” This gives you a clear headcount early on.
Label the Buffet
If you are opting for a buffet-style service rather than a plated dinner, labeling is your best friend. We can help ensure that dishes are clearly marked. Simple cards labeled (V) for Vegan, (GF) for Gluten-Free, or (DF) for Dairy-Free allow guests to serve themselves without having to ask a server for every single ingredient.
Don’t Overthink It
You do not need to create a separate meal for every single person. Usually, designing a menu that includes a “safe” option that covers multiple bases is the best strategy. For example, a hearty vegan, gluten-free dish can satisfy vegans, vegetarians, dairy-free guests, and gluten-free guests all at once.
Let’s Plan Your Celebration
Food brings people together. It is the centerpiece of conversation and the fuel for a night of dancing. By planning an inclusive menu with reliable event catering, you ensure that every guest feels welcome and cared for.
At Sepan Banquet Hall in Glendale, we’re experts at turning everyday events into celebrations. We pride ourselves on our flexibility and our culinary excellence. Whether you need a fully Halal banquet, a vegan-friendly wedding reception, or a gluten-conscious corporate lunch, our team is ready to make it happen.
Don’t wait to secure your date. Give us a call to make an appointment and see why we are the venue of choice for tasteful events, celebrations, receptions, and parties.