In the last several years in Ghana, there has emerged a caterer of choice who has become the obvious go-to to deliver high-volume, gourmet catering with precision and professionalism at almost every high-profile wedding, private celebrations and corporate hospitality functions.
They are known as Menscook. Not only do they ensure that every detail, from the menu to the presentation, aligns perfectly with the event’s vision but top up with entertainment by presenting their vibrant dance offshoot, ‘Accra Boys Official’, whose synergistic performances match the energy and adds an delightful dimension to their events.
Creating cohesive and memorable experiences, Menscook seems to have mastered the intricacies of creativity and systematic understanding that characterises the discipline of producing flawless events, working behind the scenes to elevate every moment.
This year, they have been part of the team that served at events including an American Embassy Dinner, the famous RNAQ40 event as well as the recent launch of the East Legon-based Despite Automobile Museum, commissioned by Ghanaian businessman and media magnate Osei Kwame Despite, culminating in his over 30-year passion for collecting vehicles. PaJohn Dadson learns how Menscook is expanding and adapting its strategies to cater for the changing preferences of luxury event catering in the post-pandemic era.
We all know that when it comes to hosting a successful event, catering isn’t just a checkbox on a to-do list; it’s literally the heartbeat, the anchor to every gathering. Good event catering doesn’t just satisfy hunger; it sparks conversation, adds to ambiance and creates lasting memories.
In recent times, Menscook has been a silent partner in many successfully good events. Events whose execution command bespoke menus, intricate décor coordination and flawless service for hundreds of guests.
“We’ve had the honour of catering for several grand events, including some rather opulent celebrations; and with many of them, we have been given the flexibility to design them in a manner which enhances the guest experience,” notes founder and team lead, Patrick Davoro, a highly skilled chef whose background in entrepreneurship and finance from Kumasi Polytechnic has helped to build a formidable brand within Africa’s catering circles.
It is Davoro’s passion for entertaining that led him to create a distinctive offering where he combines traditional events catering with high-energy dance choreography routines, setting a lively tone at functions that has become the Menscook signature.
This simple business model is what has transformed this habitual catering enterprise into a sensory adventure, with grand entrances and welcomes to engaging moments unique to the Menscook experience!
Established barely a decade ago as a catering hub, the company cut its teeth during the COVID era. When the brief lockdown period in Ghana was lifted, Dovoro noticed how clients planned events with a renewed urgency, ceding much of the event’s engineering to planners.
Menscook quickly positioned itself as a full service event planning entity focusing on handling the food logistics, from preparation, delivering, set-up presentation to serving, so you can focus on enjoying the event. In a short span, distinguishing itself as a dynamic leader with an exceptional ability and aura, Menscook is now a household name.
Presenting densely delightful atmosphere with thematic subtlety, their food has stood the test of time; and gallantly displayed, it has consistently been well cooked and ample at every event. How were they been able to achieve that?
Davoro laughs at the suggestion that they always got it right. “We’ve had days when things don’t turn out as expected, you know, especially in the early days.” He, however, contends that practice makes perfect, and that it has been a journey of forming a habit for perfection that stands them in good stead, always striving to give of their very best.
During cocktail hours or between meal courses, the Accra Boys, Menscook’s entertaining arm, comes alive and engage guests with impromptu dance-offs, flash mobs and even lead dance lessons, encouraging participation and creating a truly interactive atmosphere.
“Sometimes, we deploy surprise performances that inject bursts of excitement and joy into the proceedings, leaving guests delighted and talking about the event long after it’s over,” says Davoro, beaming.
Indeed, this simple model is what has propelled Menscook to have the continent of Africa as their playground. They have, in recent times, been invited on a number of occasions to liven up events across the continent in countries like Kenya, Zambia, Ethiopia and Nigeria.
Embodying the spirit of Ghanaian hospitality, the Accra Boys’ performances complement the vibrant culinary offerings, especially when they assist with the ceremonial presentation of certain dishes or desserts, adding theatrical flair to the dining experience.
Logistics form the backbone of every successful Menscook event. An intricate juggling of planning, coordination and execution that ensures everything runs seamlessly, Patrick has developed formulae for every scale of event, and he oversees every process from the first ingredient to the last cleared plate. For him, logistics isn’t just about moving things; it’s about anticipating needs, mitigating challenges and, ultimately, delivering perfection!
“Every event begins with in-depth consultations with the client to understand their vision, guest count, dietary requirements, preferred themes and venue specifics. This forms the blueprint for our logistical strategy,” Davoro further notes.
There’s a culinary team that meticulously crafts menus, considering seasonality, availability of fresh local produce and unique client preferences. Sourcing involves working with trusted suppliers to ensure the highest quality ingredients are delivered on time.
A crucial part of the operations is the section that handles their gear, the Equipment & Inventory Department. From ovens, chillers, serving stations, cutlery, crockery, glassware as well as linens, décor elements and any specialised lighting or sound equipment, Menscook has invested heavily into equipment that aid in the seamless delivery of quality service. Inventory checks and maintenance are ongoing to ensure everything is in pristine condition.
All together, there’s a core of some 50 staff strength, plus many others who are casuals or contractors for specific events.
The right team is essential; and besides a full set administrative staff – from HR to accounting to marketing and management, there are experienced chefs, waiters, bartenders and logistics personnel, all of who are properly trained with clear roles. For Team Menscook, on-site coordination is of particular importance, and dedicated team leaders oversee every aspect of their service delivery.
The transportation and set-up division run temperature-controlled vehicles for food transit, specialised trucks for equipment, and even plot and draw out optimal routes and timings when they set out for work.
On-site at events, the set-up of kitchens, dining areas, performance spaces et al. are designed to adhere to strict health and safety standards with robust plans for efficient waste disposal and thorough clean-up prior to leaving venues.
They even have contingency plans where in the event of any unforeseen circumstance, there are back-up options in place for power outages, equipment malfunctions or unexpected guest numbers. Essentially, they have learnt to adapt quickly without compromising on service.
