Best Catering in Chicago Area

    Areas served: Chicago

    25 local businessesRanked by Lantern Score β€” a measure of reputation and business quality. We don't accept payment for placement.
    Updated April 16, 2026
    Show businesses best for:
    85
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago and surrounding areas, expanding to Dallas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…5.0(139 Google reviews)

    The Food Truck Hub & Event Experiences is a full-service event catering company that connects clients with curated food trucks and handles all logistics, coordination, and on-site management. They specialize in creating custom dining experiences for corporate events, weddings, private parties, and community celebrations by matching clients with top-tier food truck vendors offering diverse cuisinesβ€”from gourmet tacos and BBQ to pizza and plant-based options. Beyond catering, they provide entertainment coordination, bar setup, setup and cleanup, and serve as a single point of contact to transform any venue into a memorable culinary destination.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsLarge Events (100+)Dietary NeedsHoliday Parties
    Ideal clients: Corporate event planners, couples planning weddings, private party hosts (birthdays, anniversaries, reunions), community event organizers
    What sets them apart
    • Handles everything from vendor scheduling to on-site management, setup, and cleanup, providing one dedicated point of contact for all event needs.
    • Partners with a carefully selected network of local food trucks that meet high standards for quality, presentation, and service, ensuring diverse cuisine options for every event type and guest preference.
    • Offers made-to-order meals that guests watch being prepared fresh, creating an engaging, social atmosphere that encourages conversation and connection at events.
    Food Truck CateringEvent CoordinationCustom MenusFull-Service CateringMade-to-Order Dining
    Phone(773) 980-6584
    The Food Truck Hub & Event Experiences
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    85
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago and surrounding areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…5.0(140 Google reviews)

    Signature Catering by Ovy is a Chicago-based wedding catering company led by Chef Ovy, who brings Michelin-starred culinary expertise and Romanian farm-to-table traditions to every event. They specialize in fully custom menus that blend clients' personal tastes and cultural heritage with globally-inspired cuisine, sourcing the freshest ingredients from local farms and producers. Chef Ovy's personalized approachβ€”from initial consultation through tasting to day-of executionβ€”ensures each wedding receives restaurant-quality dishes and attentive service tailored to the couple's vision.

    Best for: WeddingsDietary Needs
    Ideal clients: Couples seeking upscale wedding catering, culturally inspired cuisine, farm-to-table dining experiences, weddings under 150 guests
    What sets them apart
    • Chef Ovy trained at Michelin-starred restaurants in Chicago, bringing fine-dining techniques and culinary creativity to every wedding menu.
    • All dishes are made with the freshest ingredients sourced directly from local Chicago-area farms and producers.
    • Chef Ovy takes time to understand each couple's heritage and preferences, creating bespoke menus that honor their personal story and cultural background.
    Wedding CateringFarm-to-TableCustom MenusFine DiningChicago
    Phone(773) 879-0790
    Signature Catering by Ovy
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    85
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago and surrounding areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…5.0(92 Google reviews)

    Nicole Jordan Catering is a Chicago-based catering company specializing in distinctive, freshly-prepared menus for corporate events, intimate gatherings, celebrations, and weekly meal delivery. Founded by Nicole Jordan, the business brings restaurant-quality cuisine to your home, office, or event venue, handling everything from themed celebrations to no-fuss prepared meals for busy professionals. They focus on quality ingredients, professional service, and customized menus that exceed client expectations.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsDietary Needs
    Ideal clients: Corporate event planners, busy professionals seeking meal delivery, couples planning celebrations, hosts of intimate gatherings
    What sets them apart
    • Nicole Jordan Catering delivers chef-prepared, restaurant-style meals directly to your home or office, eliminating the need to cook during busy weeks while maintaining premium quality and flavor.
    • The company handles complete catering for corporate events, engagements, and celebrations with professional staff service, themed menu customization, and attention to detail that leaves lasting impressions on guests.
    • Every catering package features distinctive, freshly-prepared menus tailored to your event or dietary needs, ensuring there's something for everyone and a unique dining experience.
    Corporate CateringEvent CateringMeal DeliveryChicago CatererCustom Menus
    Phone(312) 884-1836
    Nicole Jordan Catering
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    84
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago and surrounding areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…5.0(88 Google reviews)

    CMB Catering, led by chef-proprietor Mychael Bonner, provides full-service catering for corporate events, weddings, and social gatherings with world-class culinary creations and exceptional service. Located in Chicago, the business offers comprehensive catering solutions tailored to each client's needs and dietary preferences. Chef Bonner also operates Spicy by CMB, a full-service restaurant open for dinner reservations, bringing the same elevated approach to dining experiences.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsDietary Needs
    Ideal clients: Wedding couples, corporate event planners, special occasion hosts seeking elevated cuisine
    What sets them apart
    • Led by chef Mychael Bonner, who personally oversees culinary creations and ensures exceptional quality for every event.
    • Operates both a full-service catering business and Spicy by CMB restaurant, demonstrating depth of culinary capability and event execution.
    • Handles complete catering solutions for corporate events, weddings, and social gatherings with dedicated team support from planning through execution.
    Full-Service CateringChef-DrivenWedding CateringCorporate EventsChicago
    Phone(773) 654-3376
    CMB Catering
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    84
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago and surrounding Illinois areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…5.0(85 Google reviews)

    Amazing Edibles Catering is a Chicago-based full-service catering company with over 30 years of experience specializing in weddings, corporate events, social celebrations, and educational functions. They provide comprehensive catering services including custom menus, bar service, rental equipment, and professional staff, plus vendor coordination assistance for photography, videography, floral arrangements, venues, and more. Known for meticulous attention to detail and personalized service, they transform events from intimate gatherings to large receptions tailored to each client's unique vision.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsLarge Events (100+)Holiday Parties
    Ideal clients: Wedding couples, Corporate event planners, Social celebration hosts, Educational institutions
    What sets them apart
    • Established caterer with over three decades of professional event expertise and a track record of transforming events into memorable experiences.
    • Partners with local photographers, DJs, venues, florists, and other vendors to provide one-stop event planning coordination and reduce client stress.
    • Offers complete wedding packages including food, bar service, rental equipment, and professional staff, with on-site tastings and personalized planning support.
    Full-Service CateringWedding CateringCorporate EventsChicago Caterer
    Phone(312) 563-1600
    Amazing Edibles Catering
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    84
    Lantern
    Score
    Elk Grove Village, IL
    Serves Chicago area including Elk Grove Village and surrounding communities
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.9(220 Google reviews)

    Tasty Catering is a full-service Chicago-area catering company serving Elk Grove Village and surrounding communities since 1989. They specialize in weddings, corporate events, and special occasions, offering customizable menus, on-site setup, and professional event coordination. Beyond catering, Tasty provides food delivery for groups ranging from 10 to thousands of meals, with a dedicated team handling menu design, logistics, and event production details so clients can focus on enjoying their event.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsCasual EventsLarge Events (100+)Dietary Needs
    Ideal clients: Wedding couples, Corporate event planners, Special event hosts, Groups seeking stress-free catering logistics
    What sets them apart
    • Operating since 1989, Tasty brings decades of expertise to every event, from intimate gatherings to large-scale weddings and corporate functions.
    • Beyond food, Tasty handles menu design, on-site setup, decor coordination, and complete event productionβ€”eliminating the stress of juggling multiple vendors.
    • Whether catering for 10 people or thousands, Tasty guarantees on-time delivery and professional execution for corporate meetings, events, and celebrations.
    Full-Service CateringWedding CateringChicago EventsFood DeliveryEvent Planning
    Phone(847) 593-2000
    Tasty Catering
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    83
    Lantern
    Score
    Morton Grove, IL
    Serves Chicago and surrounding Chicagoland area
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.9(172 Google reviews)

    Catered by Design is a full-service Chicago catering company with over 20 years of experience transforming events into memorable culinary experiences. They specialize in weddings, corporate gatherings, fundraisers, and private events, offering plated dinners, buffets, food stations, hors d'oeuvres, sweet tables, and custom menus crafted from the freshest ingredients. The team provides comprehensive event management and is trusted by many premier Chicago venues, with a strong commitment to sustainability and attention to detail.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsCasual EventsLarge Events (100+)Dietary NeedsHoliday Parties
    Ideal clients: Wedding couples, Corporate event planners, Fundraiser organizers, Special occasion hosts
    What sets them apart
    • Established in 2001, Catered by Design has built long-standing partnerships with premier Chicago venues and earned industry accolades for exquisite food and flawless presentation.
    • Beyond catering, they provide full event coordination and design services, working closely with clients to customize menus and handle every detail from plating to venue setup.
    • They prioritize quality sourcing and work closely with vendors to improve sustainable catering practices, making them ideal for environmentally conscious events.
    Chicago CateringWedding CateringCorporate EventsFull-ServiceCustom Menus
    Phone(847) 965-4094
    Catered by Design
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    83
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago, IL and surrounding areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…5.0(43 Google reviews)

    Cajun Cafe Chicago is a full-service catering company founded and led by Executive Chef Lashon Burrell, offering corporate dining, bar service, and custom menu options for corporate teams, nonprofits, and milestone celebrations. With formal culinary training and an MBA, Chef Burrell brings Southern-influenced cuisine with evolving expertise shaped by client needs and event spaces. The company specializes in dependable catering solutions that prioritize hospitality and creating welcoming experiences for events of various sizes.

    Best for: Corporate EventsDietary NeedsHoliday Parties
    Ideal clients: Corporate teams, Nonprofits, Milestone celebrations, Events requiring customized Southern-inspired menus
    What sets them apart
    • Founded and led by Executive Chef Lashon Burrell, who holds a Bachelor's Degree in Culinary Arts and an MBA, bringing both culinary expertise and business acumen to every event.
    • Offers complete catering solutions including corporate dining, bar and beverage service, and customizable menus tailored to client needs and preferences.
    • Built on a foundation of intimate dining experiences that prioritize understanding client needs and creating welcoming, well-supported events that clients want to return to.
    Full-Service CateringCorporate DiningSouthern CuisineBar ServiceEvent Catering
    Phone(630) 340-0031
    Cajun Cafe Chicago
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    83
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago and nationwide with chefs available across the United States
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.9(82 Google reviews)

    Elite Personal Chefs is a nationwide private chef service based in Chicago that brings restaurant-quality cooking directly to your home. They offer private chef services for dinner parties, weekly meal prep, corporate catering, trade shows, food consulting, and event venue coordination with a network of 100+ professional chefs. Whether you need a chef for a special occasion, ongoing weekly meals, or a large corporate event, their team handles menu planning, fresh cooking in your kitchen, service, and cleanup.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsLarge Events (100+)Dietary NeedsHoliday Parties
    Ideal clients: Busy professionals seeking weekly meal prep, hosts planning intimate dinner parties, corporate event planners, families celebrating special occasions
    What sets them apart
    • Access to a large roster of vetted chefs allows them to match the right culinary talent to your specific event, cuisine preference, and dietary needs.
    • Beyond private chef services, they offer food & beverage consulting, trade show representation, sanitation & licensing training, beverage service professionals, and access to premium food purveyors.
    • From menu design and shopping to cooking fresh in your home, serving guests, and full cleanup β€” they manage every detail so you can enjoy your event without lifting a finger.
    Private ChefCorporate CateringDinner PartiesWeekly Meal PrepEvent Catering
    Phone(864) 430-0925
    Elite Personal Chefs
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    83
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago and surrounding areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.9(74 Google reviews)

    Elite Events Chicago is a full-service catering and event company specializing in elevated culinary experiences for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations. Founded on a philosophy of personalized service and culinary artistry, they offer multiple service levels including their signature Restaurant Experience (private in-home dining for 2-24 guests), drop-off catering, corporate catering, and full-service event coordination for up to 500 guests. Their leadership team handles menu curation, tablescape design, rentals, linens, and floralsβ€”accommodating all dietary restrictions and allergensβ€”making them ideal for clients seeking sophisticated, customized events.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsCasual EventsLarge Events (100+)Dietary Needs
    Ideal clients: Wedding couples, corporate event planners, those seeking private in-home dining experiences, clients requiring comprehensive dietary accommodations
    What sets them apart
    • Their signature service transforms clients' homes into private dining venues with full-service hospitality for intimate gatherings of 2-24 guests.
    • Every menu is fully customized with accommodations for allergens and dietary needs including keto, kosher, vegan, gluten-free, and low-sodium options.
    • Full-service packages include tablescape design, elegant rentals, linens, and florals curated by their leadership team.
    Wedding CateringFull-Service EventsPrivate DiningCorporate CateringChicago
    Phone(708) 250-0201
    Elite Events Chicago
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    82
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago, IL and surrounding suburbs including Carol Stream, Berwyn, and greater Chicago metropolitan area
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.9(56 Google reviews)

    Catering Out the Box is a Chicago-based catering company specializing in healthy, affordable catering for corporate events, meetings, and special occasions. They offer boxed lunch delivery, event catering, and full-service options with fresh ingredients and quality presentation at accessible prices. Known for reliable on-time delivery and a BBC-accredited A+ rating, they serve both everyday corporate needs and milestone celebrations throughout the Chicago area.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsCasual EventsDietary Needs
    Ideal clients: Corporate offices ordering daily or meeting lunches, event planners hosting weddings or celebrations, companies seeking healthy catering options, budget-conscious hosts wanting quality without premium pricing
    What sets them apart
    • Maintains an A+ rating with Better Business Bureau accreditation, demonstrating commitment to quality standards and customer satisfaction.
    • Specializes in high-quality, fresh ingredients with balanced menu options including salads and quiches, catering to health-conscious corporate and event clients.
    • Guarantees on-time, professional delivery for everything from daily office lunches to large events, with a track record of timely service.
    Chicago CateringCorporate EventsBoxed LunchesHealthy CateringEvent Catering
    Phone(312) 226-2601
    Catering Out the Box Llc
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    82
    Lantern
    Score
    Morton Grove, IL
    Serves Chicago and surrounding suburbs including Morton Grove
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.8(157 Google reviews)

    Catering by Michaels is a full-service catering company based in Morton Grove serving the Chicago area with comprehensive event catering for weddings, corporate functions, social gatherings, and game day entertaining. They offer complete menu customization, access to premier Chicago venues, and handle all aspects of event planning and execution. The company is Green Restaurant Association certified and committed to sustainable practices, combining culinary expertise with attention to environmental responsibility.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsCasual EventsLarge Events (100+)Dietary NeedsHoliday Parties
    Ideal clients: Wedding planners, Corporate event coordinators, Social event hosts, Environmentally conscious event planners
    What sets them apart
    • Catering by Michaels is Green Restaurant Association certified and prioritizes sustainable practices in all operations, appealing to environmentally conscious event planners.
    • The company provides exclusive access to some of Chicago's most sought-after event venues, simplifying venue selection for clients.
    • Offers complete catering solutions from menu design to execution across weddings, corporate events, social celebrations, and game day entertaining.
    Full-Service CateringWedding CateringCorporate EventsChicago AreaSustainable
    Phone(847) 908-5764
    Catering by Michaels
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    82
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago, Illinois and surrounding areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…5.0(26 Google reviews)

    Tri-Star Catering is a Chicago-based full-service catering company celebrating over 30 years of experience, founded by restaurant veterans Robert Procell and Glenn Tisdall. They specialize in corporate meal programs, social events (weddings, private parties, showers), film and production catering, and custom menu design for events ranging from 50 to 250+ people. With flexible service options from drop-off to premium on-site setup, they handle all aspects of event planning while accommodating dietary needs and budget considerations.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsCasual EventsLarge Events (100+)Dietary NeedsHoliday Parties
    Ideal clients: Corporate event planners, wedding hosts, private party organizers, film and production crews
    What sets them apart
    • Founded in 1996 by seasoned restaurant professionals, Tri-Star Catering brings decades of kitchen management expertise to every event.
    • Three tiered service levels (Standard, Classic, Premium) allow clients to choose presentation style and pricing, from simple drop-off to elegant on-site setup with post-event pickup.
    • Experienced in corporate programs, weddings, private parties, and film/production cateringβ€”with custom menu creation tailored to client preferences and dietary needs.
    Corporate CateringEvent CateringCustom MenusFull-ServiceChicago-Based
    Phone(833) 872-2968
    Tri-Star Catering
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    81
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago and surrounding Chicagoland areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.8(104 Google reviews)

    Hearty Boys is a Chicago-based catering company run by celebrity chefs Dan Smith and Steve McDonagh, known for their personalized approach to event cuisine. They offer full-service catering for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations, bringing creative and sophisticated menus tailored to each client's vision. With their background in professional cooking and media, they combine culinary expertise with attentive service to create memorable dining experiences.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsDietary Needs
    Ideal clients: Wedding couples, Corporate event planners, Private celebration hosts seeking upscale, personalized catering
    What sets them apart
    • Founded by Dan Smith and Steve McDonagh, recognized chefs with media experience who bring creative expertise and personality to event planning.
    • Each event receives a personalized menu designed to match the client's style, preferences, and vision rather than standard offerings.
    • Handles complete event coordination including food preparation, service staff, and setup, allowing clients to focus on their celebration.
    Celebrity ChefsFull-Service CateringCustom MenusChicago Events
    Phone(773) 244-9866
    Hearty Boys
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    81
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago and surrounding areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.8(55 Google reviews)

    J & L Catering is a Chicago-based catering company specializing in customized meal solutions for events of all sizes. Located on West Walnut Street, they offer full-service catering with flexible delivery and on-site service options, handling everything from corporate events to intimate gatherings. Their experience in meal preparation and logistics makes them a reliable choice for clients seeking professional catering without the hassle of event day cooking.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsCasual EventsDietary Needs
    Ideal clients: Corporate event planners, wedding hosts, private party organizers, nonprofit fundraisers
    What sets them apart
    • J & L works with clients to create tailored menus that fit specific event needs, dietary preferences, and budgets.
    • They offer both full-service catering with on-site staff and drop-off delivery, giving clients flexibility in how they want to handle their event.
    • Established in Chicago, they bring local knowledge and community connections to event planning and execution.
    CateringEvent CateringCorporate EventsChicago CateringMeal Delivery
    Phone(312) 280-7900
    J & L Catering
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    80
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago and surrounding areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.7(154 Google reviews)

    Blue Plate is a Chicago-based catering service specializing in contemporary American cuisine with seasonal menus and locally sourced ingredients. Located in the West Loop, they offer full-service catering for corporate events, weddings, and private celebrations, with customizable menus and on-site service options. Known for creative dishes and attention to detail, Blue Plate works directly with clients to design memorable culinary experiences tailored to their specific needs and preferences.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsDietary NeedsHoliday Parties
    Ideal clients: Corporate event planners, Wedding couples, Private celebration hosts, Chicago-based businesses seeking upscale catering
    What sets them apart
    • Menu focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced locally whenever possible, ensuring quality and supporting regional producers.
    • Works directly with clients to design custom menus and service styles for corporate events, weddings, and private celebrations of any scale.
    • Offers comprehensive catering including on-site cooking, beverage service, and professional staffing for seamless event execution.
    CateringContemporary AmericanEvent CateringChicagoWest Loop
    Phone(312) 421-6666
    Blue Plate
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    80
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago and surrounding Illinois areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.8(42 Google reviews)

    Jordan's Food of Distinction is a Chicago-based catering service offering full-service event catering for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations. Founded on a commitment to quality ingredients and culinary excellence, they provide customized menus, on-site cooking, and professional service for events of all sizes. Their diverse offerings include traditional cuisine, seasonal specials, and dietary accommodations to match any event's vision.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsDietary Needs
    Ideal clients: Wedding couples, Corporate event planners, Private celebration hosts
    What sets them apart
    • Handles everything from menu design to on-site cooking and service, allowing clients to focus on enjoying their event.
    • Works with clients to create personalized menus that reflect their preferences, dietary needs, and event theme.
    • Trained catering team ensures high-quality food preparation and professional service delivery for seamless events.
    CateringEvent CateringChicago CateringFull-ServiceCustom Menus
    Phone(773) 278-8111
    Websitejfod.com
    Jordan's Food of Distinction
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    80
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago and surrounding areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.7(97 Google reviews)

    El Siete Catering is a Chicago-based catering service specializing in authentic Mexican cuisine for events of all sizes. Located on the South Side, they offer full-service catering with customizable menus, on-site cooking capabilities, and delivery options. Known for their fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, El Siete Catering handles everything from intimate gatherings to large corporate events.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsCasual EventsLarge Events (100+)
    Ideal clients: Corporate events, weddings, family celebrations, community gatherings
    What sets them apart
    • Specializes in traditional Mexican dishes prepared with fresh ingredients, offering customers authentic flavors for their events.
    • Provides complete catering services including on-site cooking, setup, and service, or convenient drop-off catering for various event needs.
    • Handles events ranging from small intimate gatherings to large corporate functions with customizable menu options.
    Mexican CateringFull-Service CateringChicago South SideEvent CateringAuthentic Mexican
    Phone(773) 615-1168
    El Siete Catering
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    79
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago and surrounding Illinois areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.7(80 Google reviews)

    Outside the Box Catering and Events Inc. is a full-service catering company based in Chicago that specializes in custom event planning and meal preparation for weddings, corporate functions, and private celebrations. They offer comprehensive catering services including on-site cooking, bar and beverage service, and dietary accommodations to ensure each event is tailored to their clients' specific needs and preferences.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsDietary NeedsHoliday Parties
    Ideal clients: Wedding couples, corporate event planners, private celebration hosts, clients seeking customized catering solutions
    What sets them apart
    • Outside the Box specializes in tailored catering experiences with on-site cooking capabilities, allowing them to adapt to each event's unique vision and client preferences.
    • They handle full event planning alongside catering, including bar and beverage service and dietary accommodations, making them a one-stop solution for events of all sizes.
    Full-Service CateringEvent PlanningWedding CateringCorporate EventsChicago Catering
    Phone(773) 801-1055
    Outside the Box Catering and Events Inc.
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    79
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago and surrounding Illinois areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.7(62 Google reviews)

    Entertaining Company is a full-service catering and event hospitality business based in Chicago that specializes in creating memorable dining experiences for celebrations, corporate functions, and special occasions. They offer customized menu planning, on-site food service, and comprehensive event coordination to bring hosts' visions to life. With expertise in diverse cuisines and attention to detail, Entertaining Company handles everything from intimate dinner parties to large-scale events.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsDietary Needs
    Ideal clients: Corporate event planners, Wedding hosts, Private dinner party planners, Special occasion celebrations
    What sets them apart
    • Entertaining Company handles menu design, preparation, and on-site service, allowing hosts to focus on enjoying their event rather than managing logistics.
    • Each event receives personalized menu planning tailored to the client's preferences, dietary needs, and occasion rather than relying on pre-set packages.
    CateringEvent PlanningFull-ServiceChicago CatererCustom Menus
    Phone(312) 829-2800
    Entertaining Company
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    79
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago and surrounding Illinois areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.7(54 Google reviews)

    Limelight Catering is a Chicago-based catering company specializing in full-service event catering for weddings, corporate functions, and private celebrations. Located on Michigan Avenue, they offer customizable menus, on-site cooking, and professional service for events of all sizes. With years of experience serving the Chicagoland area, Limelight combines quality ingredients with creative presentation to make every event memorable.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsLarge Events (100+)Dietary NeedsHoliday Parties
    Ideal clients: Wedding couples, corporate event planners, private party hosts, non-profit organizations
    What sets them apart
    • Provides on-site cooking, service staff, and setup/cleanup for seamless event execution from start to finish.
    • Works with clients to create tailored menus that accommodate dietary needs and match event themes and budgets.
    • Based on South Michigan Avenue with direct local knowledge and availability for Chicago area events.
    Wedding CateringCorporate EventsFull-Service CateringChicagoEvent Catering
    Phone(773) 883-3080
    Limelight Catering
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    79
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago and surrounding areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.8(27 Google reviews)

    Food First Chicago is a full-service catering company and restaurant located in Chicago that specializes in delivering fresh, quality meals for events and everyday dining. They offer catering services for corporate events, weddings, and private parties, alongside a retail food store and food delivery options. Known for their commitment to quality ingredients and customer service, Food First Chicago serves as both a destination restaurant and a trusted catering partner for Chicago-area events.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsHoliday Parties
    Ideal clients: Corporate event planners, wedding hosts, busy professionals seeking meal delivery, retail food shoppers
    What sets them apart
    • Offers comprehensive catering services including on-site setup and bar service for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations.
    • Operates as both a full-service restaurant and catering operation, plus retail food store and delivery options for flexible customer needs.
    CateringRestaurantFood DeliveryChicago
    Phone(312) 877-5065
    Food First Chicago
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    79
    Lantern
    Score
    Chicago, IL
    Serves Chicago and surrounding areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.6(248 Google reviews)

    Chicago Mama's Kitchen is an independent catering and culinary experience company based in Chicago offering full-service catering, mixology services, and hands-on cooking classes. Founded on the philosophy of bringing people together through food, they specialize in customized menus for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations, alongside intimate culinary experiences led by their team. Their approach combines traditional comfort food with creative techniques, making them ideal for clients seeking personalized, high-quality event catering with a local touch.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsDietary NeedsHoliday Parties
    Ideal clients: Wedding couples, Corporate event planners, Private celebration hosts, Groups seeking culinary team-building experiences
    What sets them apart
    • Beyond catering, they offer interactive cooking classes and culinary experiences, allowing guests to learn directly from their team in their kitchen space.
    • They combine catering with professional mixology, offering custom cocktail menus and beverage service for events, elevating the complete dining experience.
    • As an independent operation, Chicago Mama's Kitchen customizes every event menu and experience to match each client's vision and preferences.
    CateringMixologyCulinary ClassesEvent CateringChicago
    Chicago Mama's Kitchen - Catering, Mixology & Culinary Experiences
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    78
    Lantern
    Score
    Oak Brook, IL
    Serves Oak Brook, IL and surrounding areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…4.8(270 Google reviews)

    Chic Chef Catering is a full-service catering company based in Oak Brook specializing in elegant event catering for weddings, corporate functions, and private celebrations. They offer customizable menus, on-site cooking and service, and handle events of all sizes with attention to detail and presentation.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddingsLarge Events (100+)Dietary NeedsHoliday Parties
    Ideal clients: Wedding couples, Corporate event planners, Private party hosts, Special occasion celebrations
    What sets them apart
    • Handles complete catering services including menu customization, on-site cooking, and professional service staff for events of any size.
    • Known for sophisticated plating and attention to detail that elevates both intimate gatherings and large celebrations.
    Wedding CateringCorporate EventsFull ServiceCustom MenusOak Brook
    Phone(630) 589-9542
    Chic Chef Catering
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    78
    Lantern
    Score
    Berwyn, IL
    Serves Berwyn, IL and surrounding areas
    β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…5.0(17 Google reviews)

    Slice Factory Catering & Events is a full-service catering company based in Berwyn specializing in pizzas, Italian cuisine, and customizable menus for events of all sizes. They offer both traditional catering services and event coordination, bringing their signature culinary offerings directly to your venue. Known for quality ingredients and personalized service, they handle everything from corporate gatherings to weddings and private celebrations.

    Best for: Corporate EventsWeddings
    Ideal clients: Corporate events, weddings, private celebrations, Italian food enthusiasts
    What sets them apart
    • Specializes in high-quality pizzas and Italian cuisine as their signature offerings, setting them apart from generic catering services.
    • Handles complete event planning and catering logistics, not just food delivery, for a seamless experience.
    • Works with clients to create personalized menus tailored to their event type and guest preferences.
    CateringItalian CuisinePizzaEvent CateringBerwyn
    Slice Factory Catering & Events
    Updated 4/17/26Learn More β†’
    This directory of catering local businesses serving Chicago Area, is maintained by Lantern. Rankings are determined by the Lantern Score β€” not advertising or payment for placement. Learn how it works. Last updated April 16, 2026. To claim or update a listing, contact us.