CATERING SERVICES IN ROME, ITALY
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The U.S. Embassy in Rome, Italy, is soliciting quotations for Catering Services for a large Independence Day celebration on July 2nd, 2026, at Villa Taverna, the U.S. Ambassador's Residence. This opportunity is for a firm fixed-price purchase order for an event with approximately 3,200 participants.
Scope of Work
The selected contractor will provide comprehensive catering services, including food preparation (with on-site grilling), serving, maintaining buffet and bar areas, and providing staff for setup and cleaning. The event requires a detailed menu, specific equipment (tables, chairs, garden furniture), and a separate finger food and beverage service for approximately 60 guests at a Donors Reception within the Ambassador's residence. The Embassy will provide cutlery, dishes, glassware, napkins, and beverages, as well as BBQ grills.
Contract Details
This is a Solicitation (RFQ 191T7026Q0009) for a Firm Fixed-Price Purchase Order. Payment will be made in local currency (Euro), and VAT will not be reimbursed. This opportunity IS NOT A SMALL BUSINESS SET-ASIDE.
Submission & Evaluation
- Site Visit: A highly recommended site visit is scheduled for February 17th, 2026. Interested parties must email romegsoprocurement@state.gov by February 12th, 2026, to attend.
- Quotations Due: March 3rd, 2026, by 12:00 noon local time.
- Submission Method: Electronically to RomeGSO-Offers@state.gov, with the subject line "191T7026Q0009 – Catering Services + Company Name". Emails must not exceed 25MB; use multiple emails if necessary. Cloud storage or Dropbox are not permitted.
- Evaluation Criteria: Award will be made to the lowest priced offer that is technically acceptable, based on price, compliance with RFQ terms, technical information, and contractor responsibility (financial resources, performance capability, integrity). The Government may award based on initial offers without discussions.
Key Requirements & Logistics
Offerors must be registered in SAM.gov prior to submission and provide evidence of being a qualified catering company with an established business, necessary personnel, equipment, and financial resources. Mandatory requirements include civil liability insurance and local licenses/permits (e.g., Italian Company Registration Report). Personnel must undergo security checks (questionnaires, ID copies, criminal records) and adhere to professional conduct standards. Deliveries are required by July 1st, 2026, 16:00, with installation completed by July 2nd, 2026, 10:00, and removal by July 3rd, 2026, 10:00-14:00.
Clarifications & Amendments
An amendment adds a cancellation policy stating no cancellation fee will apply until one week before the event (July 2nd, 2026). Clarifications confirm propane gas-powered equipment is permitted, available power is 15KWAT three-phase, 380V, and alternatives to desired furnishings may be considered with photographic documentation. Kitchen access is available the morning of the event, and food delivery is approximately one week prior. Use of two-way radios requires security approval.