Business Details
Sustainable Catering Services in Cambridge, MA
At Basil Tree Catering, we are committed to delivering exceptional culinary experiences while upholding our core values of sustainability, community, and quality. Founded on the principle of making a positive impact, we work closely with local suppliers to source fresh, seasonal ingredients, including Rainforest Alliance certified coffee and clean dietary options like vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals. Our dedication to environmental responsibility is reflected in our status as a certified Sustainable Business Leader, with over 90% of our waste recycled or composted and reusable catering-ware systems in place. We prioritize community engagement through food donations to shelters and charitable organizations, contributing approximately 10% of our net profits annually. Our team is our greatest asset, and we foster a supportive workplace by offering health benefits, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. Clients consistently praise our attention to detail, reliable delivery, and creative menu offerings, which have made us a trusted partner for events ranging from intimate office lunches to large-scale conferences.With decades of combined experience in the catering industry, we combine culinary expertise with operational excellence to ensure every client receives personalized service and exceptional results. Our commitment to transparency and ethical practices extends to every aspect of our business, from ingredient sourcing to waste management. We continuously seek innovative ways to reduce our environmental footprint while maintaining the high standards of quality and service that our clients expect. This holistic approach has earned us long-term partnerships with prestigious institutions like Harvard University, MIT, and Novartis, who rely on our ability to deliver delicious, sustainably prepared meals with precision and care.
Services
Catering Services
Boxed Lunches
Event Catering
Sustainable Practices
Delivery Services
Highlights and features
- We offer 90%+ waste recycling and composting with reusable catering-ware systems.
- Our menus feature locally sourced, Rainforest Alliance certified ingredients with dietary inclusivity.
- We provide reliable delivery with dedicated staff and real-time communication.
- Our team has decades of combined catering experience serving Boston's top institutions.
- We guarantee fresh, high-quality meals with clear labeling for dietary needs.
Associations and certifications
- Sustainable Business Leader
What people say
Delicious food
Prompt delivery
Sustainable practices
Creative presentation
Dietary inclusivity
Services
Catering Services
Basil Tree Catering delivers customized culinary experiences for corporate events, conferences, and private gatherings. Our menus feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options clearly labeled. We ensure timely delivery with dedicated staff and real-time communication updates, maintaining food quality through temperature-controlled packaging. Clients appreciate our creative presentation and ability to accommodate large groups, with recent events serving up to 300 people.
Sustainable Practices
As a certified Sustainable Business Leader, we implement comprehensive waste reduction strategies including 90%+ recycling/composting and reusable catering-ware collection. Our operations prioritize biodegradable packaging, energy-efficient equipment, and partnerships with local suppliers to minimize carbon footprint. We provide clients with sustainability reports detailing waste diversion metrics and environmental impact statistics from their events.
Boxed Lunches
Our boxed lunch program offers individually portioned meals with clear dietary labeling (V, VG, GF, DF). Available for same-day or advance orders, these meals feature fresh salads, sandwiches, and entrees made with locally sourced ingredients. Clients praise the convenient delivery system and consistent quality, with options for both single orders and recurring weekly programs for offices.
Delivery Services
Basil Tree operates its own delivery fleet with trained staff to ensure timely, temperature-controlled meal transport. Our system includes real-time tracking updates and direct communication with delivery personnel. Special handling is available for complex venues, with staff assistance for navigating security checkpoints or remote delivery locations within buildings.
Community Support
Through our Giving Back initiative, we donate approximately 10% of net profits to local shelters and food-insecure communities. This includes both monetary contributions and in-kind food donations to organizations in Boston and Cambridge. We also support local agriculture by sourcing ingredients from regional farms and participating in community sustainability education programs.
Questions
What makes Basil Tree Catering sustainable?
We recycle/compost 90%+ of waste, use reusable catering-ware, source local ingredients, and partner with Rainforest Alliance certified suppliers to minimize environmental impact.
Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes! All menu items are clearly labeled with dietary indicators (V, VG, GF, DF) and we offer customized options for allergies and special dietary needs.
How do I place a catering order?
Use our online ordering system or contact our team directly. We recommend placing orders 48 hours in advance for standard catering services.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Boston and Cambridge, with delivery available to surrounding areas within a 15-mile radius of our Cambridge kitchen.
Can you handle large events?
Yes, we regularly cater events for 250+ guests with customized menus, multiple delivery vehicles, and on-site coordination to ensure seamless service.
Do you offer repeat office catering programs?
Yes, we have subscription-based programs for weekly/monthly office lunches with flexible menus and automated ordering options for convenience.