CrossBarn Event & Catering FAQ | Farmingdale, NY

Our Event Types

Weddings & wedding receptions: Zuzu has the Crossbarn East room which is our largest event space. It can hold up to 110 guests seated, and 130 in a cocktail setting. Guests have the option to do a 4 or 5 hour Wedding package. For Weddings, guests also have the option to book out both of our Crossbarn East and Crossbarn West (smaller room) in which can go up to 170 guests seated, and 200 guests in a cocktail setting. The layout of the rooms are completely up to the host. The smaller room can be used as completely open space for a DJ and dance floor, while the larger space can be used as formal seating or vice versa. Guests can also use the Crossbarn East (larger room) for a wedding reception, followed into the Crossbarn West (smaller room) for a cocktail hour while the larger room is being flipped into a new floor layout. 

Bridal showers: Zuzu has 4 different event spaces that are very big with bridal showers. Our two smaller rooms, The Stevie Room & Sophia's Lounge, tie together with our main dining 70’s retro theme with black and white tiles and disco balls. The Stevie Room, named after Stevie Nicks, is our smallest event space that is available only in the afternoon on Friday’s & Saturday’s. Sophia's Lounge, located on our lower level named after Sophia Loren, is slightly larger than The Stevie Room. You have your own bar and bathroom on this level. These rooms are very big with bridal showers, especially with musical themed events. The most popular themed showers are “The Last Disco”, “She Found her Dancing King”, “Meet Us Under the Disco Ball”, and “Love is Groovy”. 

Baby showers: Popular themes: “Special Delivery”, “She’s a Lil Beach Babe”, “Blue Jean Baby”, “We Can’t Bearly Wait”, “Oh Baby”, “A Little Bunny is on The Way”. Popular with Baby showers are flower bars, trivia games, baby bingo, guess the due date, decorate a bib/onesie, diaper raffle.

Sweet 16s: Large dance floor and seating space with signature Mocktails. Menu designed to align with children and adults food favorites. Decor wall for guest of honor and court to sit in front of.

Corporate holiday parties: Private spaces for all sized companies. DJ and outsides vendors allowed. Many menu options, with a special menu for holiday parties including an antipasti station, passed hors dourves, and different food stations. Crossbarn rooms have minimal holiday decor, but welcome to decorate in anyway that they would like. The main level is normally decked in holiday lights/decor. 

Corporate happy hours / off-sites:  Off premise food catering with 1/2 or full trays. 1/2 trays cater to roughly 10-15 guests. Full trays cater to roughly 20-25 guests. We do NOT offer off premise catering staff and party supplies (sternos, plates, serving spoons, etc.) Corporate happy hours with private room rental or able to block off a portion of the main dining bar. Catering food & beverage package required for private rooms. Guests normally opt for one of our cocktail party packages for a more mingling feel. Able to order ala carte off the main dining menu and have a cash bar or tab for the main dining. Able to pre-order food before hand.

Rehearsal dinners: We offer a standard rehearsal dinner package of $71pp for Thursday’s and Fridays and $80pp for Saturday’s. These packages include an antipasti station, buffet, and one dessert. These prices include beer, wine, and soda. Able to add on seafood, drinks, platters, and stations.

Engagement parties: Popular themes - “She Said Yes!”, “Officially Off the Market”, “Better Together, “The Countdown Begins”, “The Adventure Begins”

Birthday parties (milestone: 30th, 40th, 50th, etc.): We offer only our Sophia's Lounge and Crossbarn Rooms for evening events on Fridays & Saturdays. All of which have their own private bar. Our Sophia's Lounge is especially popular for surprise birthdays as it gives a speakeasy type of feel and is a fun unique way to get the guest of honor in the room by telling the hostess they are “going to the speakeasy”. 

Communion / Confirmation parties: Large spaces for activities for the kids. In the past, we have had a balloon maker, face painter, crafts, Mrs. Rachel Impersonator, Musicians, Bracelet Making

Bat/Bar Mitzvahs: High ceiling for speeches, large dance floor for dancing, open space for candle lighting ceremony. Balance between being sophisticated for adults and fun for kids and teens

Life celebrations / repasts: Already made bereavement menus to make the process as easy as possible. Different private room sizes to provide a quite comfortable atmosphere for guests traveling from local churches, funeral homes, or cemeteries. Quick turnaround availability for when families need to make arrangements on short notice. Able to display photo/video slideshows on TV in all private rooms.

Holiday parties (Halloween, NYE, Christmas): Flexible room layouts to best tailor to any holiday theme. Being on Main Street you have many places to go to before the party, or continue afterwards NYE: ability to do a ticketed event with food and open bar. Ball drop will be played on TV’s. Hats and accessories will be provided.

Themed private parties: Have the option to book out the main dining room if they would like to have a large 70’s disco theme/throwback night.

Event Set Up & Design

Dessert table setup & styling options: All floor plans in every private room are customizable. We provide not only the seated guests tables, but any additional tables you would need (for gifts, favors, desserts, etc). Guests will bring in any outside decor to amplify their dessert table set up (runners, layered stands, nice platters, and any outside desserts are allowed)

Disco ball pizza oven: Imported customized brick oven from Naples, Italy. Main event when it comes to picture taking, especially for Weddings.

U-shaped cocktail bar: The main dining bar has 18 chairs around a U-shaped cocktail bar as well as 4 high top tables with 4 seats each that are available for rental for cocktail style happy hour events. There are two 52 inch tv’s as well as one 100 inch tv by the bar.

Soft serve window — seasonal add-on for events: We have a soft serve window that is open during the summer months, though you are welcome to get soft serve all year round. We offer vanilla, chocolate, van/choc. twist, pistachio, cold brew, and sometimes a seasonal flavor. For events, you are able to add on an ice cream station with vanilla and chocolate hard ice cream and enjoy our 12 toppings that we offer. 

Photo booth / photo backdrop options: Both of our Crossbarn rooms come with a green, grass wall with barn door(s) that is a great photo op area for backdrops, balloon arches, flower walls, photo booths, LED signs, or simply on it’s own. 

Room layouts by space: 

• The Stevie Room: 1970’s retro theme with large windows, black and white tile floors, Stevie Nicks light up photo, combined booth/chair seating, large mirrors on walls, marble tables, TV/speaker access.

• Sophia's Lounge: a larger 1970’s retro, speakeasy vibe, black and white tile floors, combined booth/chair seating, private bar, Sophia Loren decor, marble tables, TV access, speakers

• Crossbarn West: barn themed, wooden tables, wooden chairs, private bar, green wall, barn door, stationary “extra’s” table used for anything host may need an extra table for (gifts, favors, desserts, etc.), buffet table, wooden hightop tables for mingling, TV access, speakers, LED lights

• Crossbarn East: barn themed, wooden tables, wooden chairs, private balcony with marble hightops, private bar, buffet table, green wall with double barn doors, wooden hightop tables for mingling, TV access, speakers, LED lights

Linen & centerpiece options:  We provide white tablecloths free of charge for private events in both The Stevie Room and Sophia's Lounge. It is an additional $5 per table for our Crossbarn rooms. Though, white linen napkins are provided for all events. We do not provide any centerpieces or table decor and hosts are welcome to bring in any outside decor. The only things we do not allow are glitter, confetti, and open flame candles. We also ask that only command strips/hooks and/or double sided clear sticky tack are used to hang anything on the walls. NO tape of any kind.

Lighting/AV setup: All of our event spaces, as well as the main dining has speakers in which guests are able to make their own Spotify playlist for. Our Crossbarn rooms have LED lights in which they can choose a color of their preference. All rooms have adjustable lighting fixtures that can be altered throughout the night.

Floor plan examples (banquet-style vs. cocktail-style vs. lounge): For banquet style events, guests normally have a seat for all of their guests with room to still move around and mingle. Guests can have individual tables for up to 10 guests, or opt to have tables put together to have more guests seated at a table (16+ guests). Guests can do floorplan's including rows, a horseshoe, slanted tables, etc. For cocktail style events, there is normally seating for half of the guests with more cocktail tables around the room for standing/mingling space.

Signature 70s-themed decor add-ons:  Authentic retro-inspired signage throughout the main dining room creates a fun, nostalgic atmosphere. Vintage-style neon signs and retro graphics bring the energy of the '70s to life. Throwback-inspired décor gives the space a unique personality that stands out from a traditional restaurant. Retro-inspired wall art and signage complement the restaurant's vibrant, nostalgic aesthetic. Private rooms named after famous people of that era. For example, The Stevie Room and Sophia's Lounge with photos of each displayed in the rooms.

Summer Party Checklist

• Book your venue

• Choose a menu

• Plan entertainment

• Create a seating chart (if needed)

• Coordinate decorations

• Confirm vendors

• Prepare welcome signage

• Finalize timeline

• Enjoy your event

Holiday Party Checklist

• Set your budget

• Choose a date

• Reserve your venue early (recommended at the end of summer)

• Finalize your guest list

• Select a menu

• Choose a bar package

• Pick a holiday theme

• Book entertainment (DJ, live music, etc.)

• Plan décor

• Send invitations

• Arrange party favors (optional)

• Confirm final guest count

• Celebrate!

Behind the Scenes

A day in the life planning a Zuzu event: A day to day life of a catering manager at Zuzu consists of answering emails from clients and new leads, appointments touring the spaces, answering phone calls with any questions that hosts and/or potential hosts may have, doing menu selections for upcoming events, going over floorplans for upcoming events, making sure that menu’s are up in the kitchen with the proper food items and times to be put out for the events, schedule appointments for the upcoming weekends events to go over final headcount, seeing when they would like to come in to settle the remaining balance prior to event, and being available for all walk-ins that would like to view the spaces.

Our Disco Ball Pizza Oven: The disco ball oven is the centerpiece of ZuZu's dining room, combining the restaurant's passion for authentic Italian cooking with its playful 1970s-inspired aesthetic. It transforms a traditional pizza oven into a one-of-a-kind focal point that reflects ZuZu's belief that dining should be both delicious and memorable.

Our Soft Serve Window: We have vanilla, chocolate, van/choc. twist, pistachio, cold brew, pistachio & cold brew twist all year round, though we have had seasonal flavors in the past like pumpkin spice, candy cane, gingerbread, and tiramisu. They are picked depending on the season and what is currently trending. 

Behind the 70s theme: design inspiration for the space: 1970s. ZuZu isn't just a place to dine—it's an experience. The 1970’s retro-inspired atmosphere creates a unique backdrop for everything from date nights and family dinners to birthdays, bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, and private events. It's a space where guests can enjoy classic Italian cuisine while surrounded by fun, nostalgic design that sparks conversation and memorable photos. Inspired by one of the most iconic decades in music, fashion, and design, ZuZu blends retro charm with a modern Italian dining experience.

Past Review: “I recently had my baby shower at Zuzu in Farmingdale, and it was absolutely perfect! From start to finish, the experience was seamless. Alfonso was amazing — so attentive, friendly, and made sure everything went smoothly the entire day. The staff even let my family come in the day before to decorate the room, which was such a huge help and made setup stress-free for them the morning of. We chose the brunch package, and the food was delicious — everyone raved about it! The service, atmosphere (room is BEAUTIFUL), and attention to detail were all top-notch. I can’t recommend Zuzu enough for any special event. Thank you for helping make my baby shower such a wonderful and memorable day!”

Commonly Asked Questions

What's the guest capacity per room / combined?

• Crossbarn East (largest room): Minimum of 60 adults, Maximum of 110 guests seated. Can go up to 130 in a cocktail setting

• Crossbarn West: Minimum of 40 adults, maximum of 60 guests seated. Can go up to 70 guests in a cocktail setting.

  • Combined, the Crossbarn rooms can go up to 170 guests seated, and 200 guests in a cocktail setting.

• Sophia's Lounge: Minimum of 25 adults, maximum of 40 guests seated. Can go up to 45 guests in cocktail setting.

• The Stevie Room (smallest room): Minimum of 20 adults, maximum of 30 seated.

• Main Dining - ACE room: Minimum of 70 guests, Maximum of 85 guests

  • Combined, The Stevie Room & ACE room can go up to 100 guests.
    
    Room capacities vary by setup. Seated (banquet/buffet) events have a chair for every guest; cocktail-style events use standing and lounge space, which lets us host more people in the same room. Not sure which fits your headcount? Ask us — we'll help you match the room to your guest list.
    
    
    

Is there a deposit required, and how does it work? 

It is a $500 non-refundable deposit to secure one of the private rooms. If you are looking to book a Wedding or multiple spaces for one event, it is a $1000 non-refundable deposit. The deposit can be done over the phone via CC information or can schedule an appointment if you were looking to come in person to pay with cash or a check. All deposits go toward event.

What's the minimum spend per room/event type? 

• For day time events there is a $65.00 per person minimum for a 3 hour event and $72.00 per person for a 4 hour event. 

• For evening events there is a $71.00 per person minimum for a 3 hour event and a $80.00 per person for a 4 hour event (based off of our least expensive food & drink packages).

• For weddings, there is a $109.00 per person minimum for a 4-hour event and $129.00 per person for a 5-hour event.

• Our Bereavement Packages are available Monday through Friday, during the afternoon only. The minimum cost is $47 per adult and $19.95 per child (ages 2-12) for a 3-hour event.

Can I bring outside vendors (florist, DJ, photographer)?

All outside vendors including florists, photographers, DJ’s, etc. are allowed. We would just need a copy of their insurance in which they can directly email over to catering@thecrossbarn.com. The only rentals we do NOT allow are soft plays of any kind. Though, all rentals must be approved by catering managers.

Is outside cake/dessert allowed alongside your desserts? 

Outside cakes and/or any desserts are allowed. You will always get one dessert option with our packages.

Do you offer tastings before booking? 

We do not offer food tastings however, our main dining menu is very similar to our catering menus and is prepared by the same chefs using the same ingredients. Dining with us would give you a great sense of the quality and style of our food.

What's included in a catering package (linens, staffing, setup/breakdown)? 

For your event, we will provide all silverware, plates, linen napkins, glass cups, tables, chairs, staff, food, alcohol, soda, juice, coffee, tea, speakers, and TV for a slideshow or stationary picture. You will have staff, bussers, as well as a maitre d on site for your event. The maitre is responsible for overseeing all events, making sure that everything runs smoothly, and your point of contact day of with any questions. Maitre D and staff are NOT responsible for set up and taking down of any outside decor. All decor must be taken down after event ends.

Is there a cake-cutting fee?

There is no cake cutting fee for private events. 

What's your cancellation/postponement policy? 

If an event needs to cancel for any reason, the $500 deposit that was placed at booking will be non-refundable. If an event needs to be postponed for any reason outside of the venues control (ex. weather), we will work with the host to move it to the next available date that works for both the venue and host. 

Do you require a certain headcount minimum? 

All private spaces require a minimum headcount. The Main Dining - ACE room is a minimum of 70 adults. The Crossbarn East (largest space), is a minimum of 60 adults. The Crossbarn West is a minimum of 40 adults. The Sophia's Lounge is a minimum of 25 adults. The Stevie Room is a minimum of 20 adults. 

Is parking available / valet options? 

There are municipal lots in the surrounding area around the restaurant as well as street parking. Though, no valet options. We have direction cards available with the locations of all the different lots if needed for guests. Parking is free before 5PM Monday-Saturday and free all day Sunday. 

Can rooms be combined for larger events? 

Yes, the Crossbarn East (larger room) and the Crossbarn West (smaller room) can be combined for larger events. The Stevie Room and the ACE room can also be combined. 

What's the timeline for booking (how far in advance)?

Guests normally book at least 6 months in advance for our private rooms, especially for our Crossbarn Rooms. For the more higher demand months of March, April, May, and June having guests often book at least a year in advanced.

Do you accommodate dietary restrictions/allergies (gluten-free, vegan, kosher-style, nut allergies)?

We are able to accommodate any type of dietary restrictions by putting in a specialty dish for any guests that may have one. This dish will be put in with your maitre d free of charge. We offer gluten free pasta and pizza.

Is there a kids' menu option for family events? 

Yes, kids 2-12 years old are $19.95 and are able to choose off of a kids menu. They have the option to choose plain pasta with red sauce/butter, chicken fingers and French fries, or a plain pizza. 

Can I schedule a private tour of the rooms?

Yes you are welcome to schedule an appointment with the catering managers. They are here Monday - Friday 12pm-7pm. Please note, we do not show the rooms on the weekend being that we have events going on and the catering managers are not here.

What's the average cost per person by event type? 

On top of the price per person for events you have, the 8.625% sales tax, 23% gratuity (20% goes to serving staff and 3% toward maitre d), and flat rate $250 (for the Crossbarn rooms) OR $175 (for The Stevie Room and Sophia's lounge) admin fee. So, for standard events it can range from $93-$101pp for a day time event and $101-$123pp for an evening event with the additional costs. 

Do you provide a day-of coordinator or point of contact? 

Yes, there will be a maitre d on site for all private events. The maitre is responsible for overseeing all events, making sure that everything runs smoothly, and your point of contact day of with any questions.

Are there in-house DJ/entertainment partners you recommend? 

For Entertainment Packages:

Neil Castiello - 516-596-8837 & NYNIghtsDJ@gmail.com.

Website: www.nynightsdj.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nynightsdj/

Two of Us Event Planner: Jeanine Marchioli -  516-424-4229

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twoofuseventplanners/ 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/partytime1016/

What's the difference between the 4 event rooms (best use case for each)? 

The Stevie Room is best for intimate events, such as smaller bridal/baby showers and retirement parties. Sophia's Lounge is best for birthday’s, especially surprise birthday’s and meetings. The Crossbarn East room is best for larger parties such as, Weddings, bridal showers, holiday parties, and engagement parties. The Crossbarn West is best for rehearsal dinners, baby showers/sprinkles, happy hours, and bereavements.

How much food to plan per guest? 

All events make the amount of food based on the host’s final headcount and will always get replenished. For the day time events, there is an ample amount of food given. For the evening events, the cocktail party packages provide an array of different food throughout the whole event, though guests have found adding food with more subsidence (ex. a chicken/meat) and/or additional platters were beneficial. For the standard buffet options for evening events, it is definitely recommended to add on something for guests to pick on at the start of the event (ex. antipasti station, platters, and/or passed hors dourves). 

Can I offer my guests signature cocktails for my event? 

Hosts are welcome to create a signature drink that correlates to the liquor package that they choose for their event (ex. hosts cannot choose an espresso martini if they only have a mixed drinks liquor package). Hosts can communicate with the catering managers of what they were looking to have to ensure we have the correct ingredients in house. If we do not have the ingredients, hosts are welcome to bring them in. Hosts can also make a signature drink sign to have displayed on the bar. The signature drinks can be made to order or batched.

Do you offer Sit-down vs. Buffet-style dining?

We only offer buffet style for our Crossbarn rooms and Sophia's Lounge. Though, a sit down/family style dinner is offered in The Stevie Room Sun-Thurs.

How early should you book your event?

Guests normally book at least 6 months in advance for our private rooms, especially for our Crossbarn Rooms. For the more higher demand months of March, April, May, and June having guests often book at least a year in advanced. We often recommend to book as soon as possible or put on a complimentary 48 as dates get taken very quickly.

How are desserts served for buffet events?

Our dessert that we provide will be out on the buffet table the last hour to 45 mins of the event along with coffee and tea. Hosts are welcome to set up their own dessert table alongside our dessert, or on a separate table that is displayed the whole event. Guests will bring in any outside decor to amplify their dessert table set up (runners, layered stands, nice platters, along with any outside desserts). Though, guests are also welcome to order additional desserts through Zuzu.