What should I look for when choosing New York City catering services?

I’m currently researching catering companies for an upcoming celebration and could use some genuine experiences from people who have organized similar events. There are so many options that it’s difficult to tell which companies actually provide reliable service rather than simply having attractive menus.

Bon Soir Caterers is one company I’m considering. Has anyone here hired them for a birthday, corporate gathering, wedding, or another private event? I’d especially like to know whether the food arrived on time and whether the portions were reasonable for the number of guests.

When comparing New York City catering providers, how much attention should I give to reviews about the staff? I’m looking for a company where the servers are professional and the setup doesn’t become something I have to manage myself.

Another thing I’m wondering about is menu flexibility. Does Bon Soir Caterers offer enough variety for guests with vegetarian, vegan, or other dietary preferences? Were they willing to customize dishes if requested?

For those who have arranged New York City catering recently, did you receive a detailed quote before booking? Were there any additional charges for delivery, staffing, equipment, setup, or cleanup that surprised you later?

I’d also like to hear about communication during the planning process. Did Bon Soir Caterers make recommendations based on the type and size of your event, or did you have to figure everything out independently?

If you had to choose again, which factors would influence your decision most? Food quality, pricing, staff, menu choices, or reliability? I’m trying to make a practical decision rather than simply choosing based on advertising.