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Hot Canapes Catering Melbourne

Hot Canapes Catering Melbourne

Cooked fresh on-site at your event by our qualified chefs, our hot canapes bring real warmth, flavour and energy to cocktail parties, weddings, corporate functions and celebrations right across Melbourne.

Hot Canapes That Your Guests Will Keep Coming Back For

Ask any guest at a well-catered Melbourne event what they remember most, and the answer is almost always the hot food. There is a real difference between hot canapes that have been sitting under a heat lamp and hot canapes that have just come off the grill or out of the oven – cooked fresh by a qualified chef right there at your event. At Catering By Chefs, we only do the latter.

Every hot canape we serve is cooked on-site at your venue. Our chefs arrive with all the equipment needed, set up efficiently and work throughout the service. We make sure every item reaches your guests exactly as it should. No reheating, no compromises, no cutting corners on quality.

Phil and his team draw on over 30 years of Melbourne event catering experience and a menu inspired by Asian, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and modern Australian flavours to put together hot canapes spreads that genuinely stand out. Whether it is a cocktail party for 40 or a corporate function for 300, the standard stays the same.

Established &
Catering Service Since

1995

An Engagement Party that will be remembered

We can organise catering for any engagement party you wish, whether a home party or a party at a chosen venue.

When your wedding day is fast approaching and you would like to celebrate your engagement in style with friends and family, organise an engagement party.

At Catering by Chefs, we are the perfect solution for your engagement party. With over 20 years of experience in engagement party catering in Melbourne, it’s only natural to trust that we will make your celebration a success.

Whether you plan to have a huge or intimate party, we can produce the proper food selection for your catering needs. Let our team of highly experienced professionals transform your engagement party into a memorable day that you will cherish for years to come.

Why Is It Great To Have Your Engagement Party With Us?

We are a team of qualified and highly experienced caterers that understand your needs and are committed to making your engagement event a success.

When you speak to our friendly team, we will help develop a customised menu that will suit your budget, theme, and tastes.

Be amazed by our selection of handmade creations that come in textures, colours, and flavours that will impress your guests.

We also have many vegetarian and gluten-free options at our engagement catering to choose from so that none of your guests will go hungry.

Why Cater Your Engagement Party With Us?

  • Very experienced in catering in Melbourne

  • Provide excellent quality food and freshest produce

  • Specially prepared menu for any budget

  • Qualified chefs and waiting staff

  • A wide variety of food

  • Optional Vegetarian and Gluten Free menu

So, when you can’t wait to announce your big day with an engagement party, you’ll know it’s time to get in touch with Catering by Chefs – the best engagement party catering in Melbourne.

Start your party planning now.

Contact us at 0407 633 322 or email us at info@cateringbychefs.com.au to place your enquiry.

What We Serve – Our Hot Canapes Menu

Our hot canapes menu is built around variety, freshness and the kind of flavours that get people talking. All items are cooked on-site & served directly to your guests by our professional wait staff throughout the event.

Classic Hot Canapes

Reliable crowd-pleasers that work at almost any event. Tandoori chicken skewers and mint yoghurt, mini beef ravioli in Napoli sauce, gourmet sausage rolls with tomato relish, Southern fried chicken strips with a tangy ranch dressing and wok-tossed prawn cutlets with lemon, basil and garlic.

Gourmet Hot Canapes

For events where the food needs to make a real statement. Spanish rice boats with coriander and chorizo, mini gourmet Angus beef burgers with tomato relish and sesame bun, salt and pepper calamari with aioli, Moroccan lamb kofta with tzatziki and wok-tossed prawn cutlets with lemon, basil and garlic.

Vegetarian and Vegan Hot Canapes

Caramelised onion and brie cheese tartlets with thyme, vegetable spring rolls with sweet chilli dipping sauce, sweetcorn, zucchini and haloumi fritters with tomato relish, spiced cauliflower florets with curry mayonnaise and ricotta, parmesan and zucchini tartlet.

Gluten-Friendly Hot Canapes

A number of our hot canape options are naturally gluten-friendly or can be easily adapted. Let us know your requirements when you enquire, we will make sure gluten-friendly guests are just as well looked after as everyone else.

Hot Canapes Catering for Melbourne Events of Every Kind

Particularly Popular for Evening Events, Winter Functions and Long Celebrations
Hot canapes work especially well at evening events, winter gatherings and longer functions where guests want something warm and substantial alongside their drinks. We cater for:

  • Cocktail parties and evening drinks receptions
  • Winter celebrations and cold-weather outdoor events
  • Wedding cocktail hours & post-ceremony receptions
  • Corporate product launches and end-of-year parties
  • Late-night birthday and milestone celebration spreads
  • Christmas parties and festive season functions
  • Engagement parties and hens nights
  • Melbourne Cup celebrations and race day events
  • School awards nights and Year 12 formals
  • Funerals, wakes and celebration of life gatherings

We cater at homes, backyards, offices and Melbourne function venues including The Kilburn, The George Lounge and LOLA St Kilda. Hot canapes work equally well in an intimate living room as they do in a 300-person event space.

Engagement Catering

MENU OPTION 1

These amazing selections are all handmade and are our own creations, skillfully presented with color, texture and flavour in mind.
Each option can include a fully uniformed chef and professionally attired waiter.
We will arrive, cook, serve & clean.

COLD SELECTION

Chicken Breast Waldorf on French bread (GF)
Mexican prawn salsa with Coriander on corn crisps (GF)
Pan-fried Chorizo, bocconcini & cherry tomato skewers (GF)(MV)
Smoked Salmon and cucumber rosettes
Savoury chive pancake with corn & coriander topping (V)
Virginian ham, mustard mayo & sprout pinwheels (GF)
Smoked Salmon, Ricotta and Avocado tartlets
Roasted Vegetable Skewers with Salsa Verde

HOT SELECTION

Indonesian Style chicken breast skewers (GF)
Mini beef ravioli pillows in caponata sauce
Mini hot dogs with American mustard & ketchup
Wok tossed prawn cutlets with lemon, basil & garlic (GF)
Spanish rice boats with corriander and chorizo sausage (V)
Southern fried chicken ribs with a tangy ranch dressing

V = Vegetarian  |  GF = Gluten Free | MV = Can be modified to become a Vegetarian dish

Engagement Catering

MENU OPTION 2

These amazing selections are all handmade and are our own creations, skillfully presented with color, texture and flavour in mind.
Each option can include a fully uniformed chef and professionally attired waiter.
We will arrive, cook, serve & clean.

COLD SELECTION

Gourmet mini roast beef & horseradish cream Vienna rolls
Chicken san choy bow in crisp lettuce cups (MV)
Sweet corn pancakes with shredded paprika chicken topping (MV)
Assorted sushi selection (V)
Assorted dips, crackers, mixed nuts & dried fruit (V)
Smoked Salmon, Ricotta and Avocado tartlets
Roasted Vegetable Skewers with Salsa Verde

HOT SELECTION

Caramelised onion & brie cheese tartlets (V)
Tassie Salmon and lime skewer with dill creme fraiche (GF)
Individual cups, gnocchi bolognaise with fresh parmesan
Greek style meat balls with homemade tomato sauce & oregano sauce
Spiced lamb in fillo with mint yoghurt

V = Vegetarian  |  GF = Gluten Free | MV = Can be modified to become a Vegetarian dish

Engagement Catering

MENU OPTION 3

These amazing selections are all handmade and are our own creations, skillfully presented with color, texture and flavour in mind.
Each option can include a fully uniformed chef and professionally attired waiter.
We will arrive, cook, serve & clean.

COLD SELECTION

Fresh chopped bruschetta with garlic Vienna loaf (V)
Smoked salmon mini buns with crème fraiche
Thai beef salad spoons & julienne vegetable (GF)
Spanish chicken and rice bamboo boats (GF)(V)
Smoked Salmon, Ricotta and Avocado tartlets
Roasted Vegetable Skewers with Salsa Verde

HOT SELECTION

Mini open top prawn and lobster pie
Mini gourmet beef burgers with tomato relish & sesame bun

HOT CRUMBED SEAFOOD SELECTION

Plump Chilli and coriander scallops with wasabi mayo (GF)
Tender Sesame calamari with tartare sauce
Salt and pepper prawns with herb yoghurt
gourmet Mini Fish & chip cups with home made tartare sauce

Additions…

Swap or add any of these items. Please note some items may incur an extra cost.

COLD SELECTION

Smoked salmon bagels with creme fra che
Asian spoons of soba noodles and shredded hoisin chicken
Freshly shucked oyster with chilli and ginger oil
Roasted vegetable frittata
Mini prawn cocktail cups with homemade cocktail sauce
Bloody Mary oyster shot
Smoked Salmon, Ricotta and Avocado tartlets
Roasted Vegetable Skewers with Salsa Verde

HOT SELECTION

Chicken breast tartlets with spinach and haloumi cheese
Seafood bisque served in shot glasses
Chorizo sausage, seared scallop and coriander pesto
Thai style green curry prawn shooters
Chicken pancetta bites with tapenade
Special fried rice cups with oriental BBQ Pork
Lemon and poppy seed crumbed scallops with wasabi mayonnaise
Whiting and chips served in a mini box
Thai style green beef curry in individual bowls
Prawn Mornay in pastry shell with pecorino cheese
Chicken breast satay on savoury rice in bamboo boats

V = Vegetarian  |  GF = Gluten Free | MV = Can be modified to become a Vegetarian dish

Engagement Catering

MENU OPTION 4

These amazing selections are all handmade and are our own creations, skillfully presented with color, texture and flavour in mind.
Each option can include a fully uniformed chef and professionally attired waiter.
We will arrive, cook, serve & clean.

DESSERT SELECTION

Chocolate dipped; cream filled profiteroles
Lemon and poppy seed cake
Choc cherry layer cake
Passion fruit squares
Orange syrup cake
Mini salted caramel doughnuts

Hot Canapes Catering Packages

Three Package Tiers Built Around Your Guest Count and Event Length

Our hot canapes packages are designed around how long your event runs and how generously you want to feed your guests.

All packages include an on-site chef, all cooking and serving equipment, uniformed wait staff for events of 50 or more guests, full set-up, high-quality napkins and complete pack-down and clean-up once service ends. The three package tiers are:

  • Option 1 (Low): 6 to 8 items per person at $35 to $45 plus GST — suits shorter events of around one hour

  • Option 2 (Medium): 8 to 10 items per person at $40 to $50 plus GST — ideal for a standard 2 to 2.5 hour event

  • Option 3 (High): 10 to 12 items per person at $50 to $60 plus GST — best for longer events or where you want an abundant spread

All prices are a general guide only and are plus GST. Final pricing may vary depending on the day of the week, time of event, location and distance. Sunday and public holiday events may incur additional costs. For a personalised quote based on your specific event and requirements, please contact our team.

Established &
Catering Service Since

1995

What Melbourne Couples Say About Our Engagement Party Catering

Why Melbourne Event Hosts Choose Us for Hot Canapes

The On-Site Cooking Difference

  • Everything Cooked Fresh at Your Venue: We do not reheat or pre-cook. Our chefs cook every hot canape on-site so your guests always get food at its absolute best.

  • 30 Years of Melbourne Event Catering: Since 1995, we have cooked hot canapes at hundreds of events across Melbourne and Regional Victoria.

  • Menus Inspired by Global Cuisines: Asian, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and modern Australian flavours come together to create a hot canapes spread that feels genuinely exciting.

  • Hot and Cold Canapes Work Together: Combine our hot canapes with our cold canapes selection for a well-rounded cocktail spread that gives guests real variety.

  • Dietary Needs Handled Properly: Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-friendly, halal and dairy-free options available.

  • On-Site Chef and All Equipment Included: We bring everything needed to cook on location. You do not need to worry about your kitchen, your oven or your benchtop.

  • Wait Staff Included From 50 Guests: Uniformed wait staff circulate throughout the event. We ensure guests are always served, and platters are always fresh.

  • Complete Clean-Up Before We Leave: We pack down and clean up everything before we go. Your venue is left exactly as we found it.

Gallery

FAQs

What are hot canapes?

Hot canapes are small, bite-sized savoury items that are cooked and served hot at events. Unlike cold canapes, which are prepared in advance – hot canapes are cooked fresh on-site at your venue. It makes a significant difference to the quality and flavour. Common examples include chicken skewers, prawn cutlets, arancini, lamb kofta, sausage rolls and Angus beef burgers. They are typically served at cocktail parties, weddings, and corporate events where guests are standing and mingling.

How many hot canapes do I need per person?

For a standard event running 2 to 2.5 hours, 8 to 10 items per person is a reliable guide when hot canapes are part of a mixed spread. For a shorter event of around one hour, 6 to 8 items per person is usually sufficient. If hot canapes are the only food being served at a longer event, lean toward the higher end. Phil is always happy to advise on quantities based on your specific event format and guest count.

Do you cook the hot canapes at my venue or bring them pre-cooked?

We always cook on-site. Our chefs bring all the equipment needed and cook every item fresh at your venue throughout the service. We never bring pre-cooked or reheated food to events. This is one of the key differences between Catering By Chefs and many other catering companies. It is something our clients consistently mention in their reviews.

Can I mix hot canapes with cold canapes at my event?

Yes, and we would recommend it. A mix of hot and cold canapes gives your guests the best of both worlds and keeps the food interesting throughout the event. Our packages are designed to accommodate both. Simply let us know your preference when you enquire – and Phil will help you put together the right balance for your guest count and event style.

Do you cater for vegetarian, vegan and gluten-friendly guests?

Yes. Our hot canapes menu includes a dedicated vegetarian and vegan selection including arancini, spring rolls, caramelised onion tartlets, spiced cauliflower florets and sweetcorn and haloumi fritters. Many items are also naturally gluten-friendly or can be adapted. Tell about your guests’ dietary needs when you enquire, we will make sure the menu covers everyone properly. Guests with severe allergies should discuss their requirements directly with Phil at booking.

What is the minimum guest number for hot canapes catering?

 Our hot canapes packages are available for events from 30 guests and above. If your event has fewer than 30 guests, please call Phil directly on 0407 633 322 to discuss your options. Smaller events are assessed individually, and we will do our best to help.

Do you need access to a kitchen at the venue?

Not necessarily. Our chefs bring portable cooking equipment to every event, so access to a full commercial kitchen is not always required. That said, some venue setups are better suited to on-site cooking than others. When you enquire, let us know about the venue, and Phil will confirm what is needed based on your specific event location.

How do I book hot canapes catering in Melbourne?

Call Phil directly or submit an online enquiry. Phil handles every booking personally, from the initial conversation through to the event itself. He will help you settle on the right menu, package and quantities and will keep communication clear and simple throughout the process.

Serving Hot Canapes at Events Right Across Greater Melbourne
We Bring Our Full On-Site Cooking Setup to You

Our hot canapes catering team services events across Greater Melbourne and Regional Victoria. Wherever your event is being held, we will bring the full setup and cook on location:

Hampton · Brighton · Sandringham · Bayside · Cheltenham · Mentone · Moorabbin · St Kilda · Port Melbourne · South Melbourne · Melbourne CBD · Southbank · Docklands · Richmond · Fitzroy · Carlton · Collingwood · Hawthorn · Camberwell · Glen Iris · Malvern · Toorak · Caulfield · Elsternwick · Prahran · South Yarra · Doncaster · Box Hill · Ringwood · Bayswater · Glen Waverley · Frankston · Dandenong · Keysborough · Werribee · Footscray · Essendon · Tullamarine · Craigieburn · Epping · Eltham · Preston · Northcote · Heidelberg · Ivanhoe · Parkville · Bacchus Marsh · Geelong · Mornington Peninsula · Phillip Island · and all of Regional Victoria.

Call Phil on 0407 633 322 if you are not sure whether we cover your area. We service a wide range of locations and will always try to make it work.

Planning a Melbourne Event and Want Hot Canapes Done Properly?

Let Phil build the right menu for your occasion.

CATERING BY CHEFS FOOD ALLERGY DISCLAIMER

At Catering by Chefs, we make every effort to identify ingredients that may cause allergic reactions for those with food allergies. 

There is always the risk of contamination as we use products such as milk, eggs, gluten, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, sesame, wheat, lupin, fish & shellfish in our kitchen. We do have strict cross contamination policies, however, we cannot guarantee a total absence of these products in any of our items.

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327 Hampton St, Hampton VIC 3188

Need our catering services? Call Phil!

0407 633 322

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