About Us

Blackbird Caterers was founded in 1987 and grew from humble beginnings in Chartham Hatch, Nr Canterbury.  By 1991 we had opened up a restaurant in Castle St, Canterbury and, keeping the theme of the nursery rhyme, called it 'The Counting House'.  We offered a simple menu comprising of all-day breakfasts, lunchtime specials and afternoon cream teas to suit the clientele who were mainly from the surrounding offices, estate agencies and retirement homes.

By 1997 it was becoming evident that we could not longer to continue to operate from 'The Counting House' as Blackbird Caterers' outside functions were growing rapidly; the kitchen facilities were simply too small.  A decision was made to sell the remainder of the lease and move to larger premises, 'The Parlour', which we still occupy today.

'The Parlour' has 3000 sq ft of space and has been fully refurbished to provide modern, hygienic facilities.  Clients are encouraged to visit and take a look around the kitchens.

Blackbird Caterers has a highly skilled and faithful group of staff, many of whom have been with the company since its inception.  In the summer of 1999 we were typically handling three catering functions every Saturday and usually two on Sundays as well as many others during the week.  Our menus have been extended to offer more adventurous ethnic cuisine including Italian, Indian and Mexican.  At the start of the new millennium, and after extensive research, we have introduced authentic Medieval Banquets to our range.  Even the staff are dressed in costumes of the period.

All our menus are designed so that we are able to cater in any location irrespective of the catering facilities on site.  We cater for a variety of clients offerings ranging from simple cold buffets to six course banquets. We have over four hundred letters of recommendation extracts of which can be seen on the customers' quotes page.  We have also had the privilege of catering for the Archbishop of Canterbury, past & present High Sheriff of Kent, Graham Cowdrey, and an array of pop stars including Bob Geldof and Chris de Burgh.  For the last five years we have branched out into catering for corporate events such as new car launches and new store openings.

For all these new and exciting changes at Blackbird Caterers over the years I would like to think that we are still a traditional local caterer, providing an excellent standard of service to all that use us now and in the future.

Hugh Pickett