Terms of Service

1. About these terms

These terms apply to all quotations, bookings and services provided by The Bearded Chef ("we", "us"), including fine dining private functions, wine pairings, cocktail parties, spit braais, platters and mobile kitchen catering. By accepting a quotation or paying a deposit, you ("the client") agree to these terms. Where a signed event agreement exists for a specific booking, its terms take precedence over these general terms.

2. Quotations

• Quotations are valid for 14 days from the date of issue unless stated otherwise.
• Quotations are based on the guest count, menu and venue details you provide. Changes to any of these may change the price.
• All prices are quoted in South African Rand (ZAR).

3. Bookings, deposits & payment

• A booking is confirmed only once the deposit stated on your quotation has been received. Your event date is not reserved until then.
• Unless agreed otherwise in writing, a 50% deposit confirms the booking and the balance is payable no later than 7 days before the event.
• Final guest numbers must be confirmed at least 7 days before the event; this number forms the minimum billing quantity.
• Payment is by EFT to the account stated on your invoice. Proof of payment may be requested.

4. Changes & cancellations

• Reasonable menu or guest-count changes can usually be accommodated up to 7 days before the event.
• Cancellations must be made in writing. Unless your quotation states otherwise: cancellations more than 14 days before the event forfeit the deposit only; cancellations within 14 days of the event may be liable for costs already incurred (such as perishable stock and staffing) up to the full quoted amount.
• If we must cancel due to circumstances within our control, all amounts paid will be refunded in full.
• Neither party is liable for failure to perform due to events beyond reasonable control (force majeure), such as extreme weather, load shedding beyond mitigation, or government restrictions. We will work with you in good faith to reschedule.

5. Dietary requirements & allergens

• Please disclose all dietary requirements and allergies in writing before the event. We will take reasonable care to accommodate them.
• Our food is prepared in kitchens that handle common allergens (including nuts, gluten, dairy, eggs, shellfish and soy); we cannot guarantee a completely allergen-free environment.
• We are not liable for allergic reactions arising from requirements that were not disclosed to us in writing.

6. Venue, access & equipment

• The client is responsible for providing reasonable access to the venue, and — where applicable — water, electricity and a safe area for open-flame cooking (spit braais and the mobile kitchen).
• Any permissions required from the venue, estate or municipality for open-flame cooking or a mobile kitchen are the client's responsibility unless agreed otherwise.
• Our equipment remains our property. The client is liable for loss of or damage to our equipment caused by guests or the venue.
• Leftover food is left at the client's request and risk; once out of our control, safe storage and consumption are the client's responsibility.

7. Alcohol service

Where cocktail or wine service is provided, alcohol is served only to persons aged 18 or older. Our staff may refuse service to any visibly intoxicated guest. The client is responsible for any liquor permissions the venue or event may require.

8. Liability

Nothing in these terms excludes liability that cannot be excluded under South African law, including the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008. Subject to that, our total liability for any claim arising from a booking is limited to the amount paid for that booking, and we are not liable for indirect or consequential loss.

9. Intellectual property & website content

All content on this website — including text, menus, photographs and branding — belongs to The Bearded Chef and may not be reproduced without written permission. Menus and platter contents may vary based on seasonal availability; images are illustrative.

10. Personal information

We process personal information in accordance with POPIA and our Privacy Policy and POPIA Notice.

11. General

These terms are governed by the laws of the Republic of South Africa. If any provision is found unenforceable, the remainder stays in force. We may update these terms from time to time; the version published on this page at the time of your booking applies to that booking.

Questions? Contact Marc on 065 891 6711 or info@thebeardedchef.co.za.