Craft Services and Catering on a Chicago Film Set
Craft services and catering form the backbone of a safe and functional film set. A well-fed crew works smarter, stays focused, and helps you maintain a professional environment from call to wrap.
Use Trained Pros, Not a PA
It can be tempting to hand food duties to a PA, but food handling carries real safety considerations. Lean on your production coordinator (who should have all the dietary restrictions for your team) during prep or bring in a caterer who can manage craft services properly. This protects your crew and keeps your day running cleanly.
Plan for Dietary Needs
Crews expect meals they can safely eat. Chicago caterers are experienced with gluten free requests, halal options, vegetarian and vegan meals, and allergy-conscious prep. These may feel like “extra steps” in the hiring process but setting a precedent that you care for your team’s needs allows you to build the foundation of a positive reputation in Chicago. Covering these basics builds trust and avoids preventable issues once you hit the ground.
Breakfast and Lunch Are Non-Negotiable
Crews need consistent access to breakfast and lunch, even if the morning spread is as simple as fruit and bagels. Reliable nutrition supports performance, reduces slowdowns, and sets the tone for a smooth shooting day.
Caterers Save Time and Reduce Risk
The cost of hiring a caterer is minor compared to the inefficiency of lunch runs or last-minute food scrambles. A PA freed from meal duty can support the AD team, manage paperwork, or solve problems on the ground. A small investment here yields real gains in workflow.
Aim for Balanced Meals, Not Just Calories
People joke about “no pizza on set,” but the point is simple. Crews need balanced meals to stay sharp. Film sets are high intensity, physically demanding, and often hot. Dehydration and poor nutrition can tank morale, jeopardize tight timelines, and create preventable safety issues.
Take Advantage of Chicago’s Food Scene
Chicago is one of the food capitals of the United States. The city is packed with competitive caterers, small restaurants with set experience, and craft service teams who understand production demands. Use that abundance to give your crew quality meals without blowing the budget.
Key Takeaway
Food is part of your safety plan and part of your schedule. Treat it as a core production element, not an afterthought, and your set will run with more energy, professionalism, and resilience.