Areas served: Chicago, IL and surrounding Cook County
Chicago's catering landscape reflects the city's position as a major metropolitan hub with diverse culinary traditions spanning Polish, Mexican, Italian, and contemporary American cuisine. This directory catalogs catering providers across the city's 77 community areas, from downtown corporate event specialists to neighborhood caterers serving intimate gatherings. Providers have been evaluated based on cuisine offerings, minimum and maximum guest capacity, lead time requirements, and service models including drop-off, buffet, and full-service options.
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 cuisines—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.
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 approach—from initial consultation through tasting to day-of execution—ensures each wedding receives restaurant-quality dishes and attentive service tailored to the couple's vision.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 florals—accommodating all dietary restrictions and allergens—making them ideal for clients seeking sophisticated, customized events.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Paramount Events is a full-service catering and event venue in Chicago's Roscoe Village neighborhood, offering customizable menus, on-site cooking, and flexible event spaces for weddings, corporate gatherings, and private celebrations. With expertise in diverse cuisines and dietary accommodations, they handle everything from intimate dinners to large-scale events, combining professional catering service with venue flexibility to create memorable occasions.
Beyond Catering is a full-service catering company based in Berwyn, Illinois, specializing in corporate events, weddings, and private celebrations. They offer customizable menus, on-site cooking, and comprehensive event planning services to create memorable dining experiences for gatherings of all sizes. With expertise in diverse cuisines and dietary accommodations, Beyond Catering transforms any venue into a sophisticated dining destination.
Honeydoe Authentic Mediterranean is an independent Chicago restaurant serving traditional Mediterranean cuisine at 135 N Kedzie Ave. They specialize in authentic flavors and dishes inspired by Mediterranean culinary traditions, offering dine-in service for guests seeking genuine Mediterranean dining in the city.
Premier Catering & Events is a full-service Chicago catering company specializing in corporate events, weddings, and social gatherings. They offer customizable menus, on-site cooking, bar service, and event coordination to handle celebrations of any size. Located on the South Side, they combine quality cuisine with professional service to bring clients' events to life.
LM Catering & Events is a full-service catering company based in Chicago's Loop district, serving corporate events, weddings, and private celebrations throughout the Chicago area. They offer customized menu planning, professional service, and event coordination to create memorable dining experiences for gatherings of all sizes. With a focus on quality cuisine and attention to detail, LM Catering handles everything from intimate dinners to large-scale corporate functions.
Doll's Kitchen And Catering is a Chicago-based restaurant and catering company serving the local community from their Western Avenue location. They offer both dine-in restaurant service and catering options for events and gatherings. Their menu and service reflect a commitment to quality food and customer satisfaction.
Zella's Catering and Dessert is a Chicago-based catering company specializing in custom catering services and dessert offerings for events of all sizes. They provide full-service catering solutions tailored to their clients' needs, with a strong reputation for quality food and creative dessert presentations that make events memorable.
Boka Catering Group is a Chicago-based full-service catering company specializing in sophisticated cuisine for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations. Based in the West Loop, they offer customizable menus, on-site cooking capabilities, and comprehensive event coordination to create memorable dining experiences for gatherings of any size.
Food For Thought is a catering company based in Lincolnwood serving the Chicago area with customized menus for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations. They offer full-service catering with on-site cooking and bar service, working directly with clients to design memorable dining experiences tailored to their event's vision and guest count.
Jewell Events Catering is a Chicago-based catering company specializing in customized event menus and full-service catering for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations. Led by experienced culinary professionals, they offer tailored cuisine options designed to match each client's vision and dietary needs, with a focus on quality ingredients and personalized service.
One Off Catering & Events is a Chicago-based catering company specializing in custom event experiences from intimate gatherings to large celebrations. They offer full-service catering with on-site coordination, handling everything from menu design to execution and service. Their approach focuses on personalized service and high-quality cuisine tailored to each client's vision.
Loquacious Culinary Events is a Chicago-based catering service specializing in custom culinary experiences for events of all sizes. They offer full-service catering with personalized menus designed to elevate any occasion, from intimate gatherings to large celebrations. Located on the South Side, they combine creative cooking with attentive service to deliver memorable dining experiences.
Blackwood BBQ Catering specializes in authentic barbecue catering for events of all sizes across Chicago. They offer full-service catering with smoked meats, sides, and bar service, handling everything from setup to cleanup. Known for quality smoked barbecue and customizable menus that work for corporate events, weddings, and private parties.
Russell's Barbecue is an established BBQ restaurant in Elmwood Park serving authentic smoked meats and traditional barbecue sides. Known for quality slow-smoked ribs, brisket, and pulled pork, Russell's offers both dine-in and carry-out options for casual barbecue dining. The restaurant has built a loyal local following for consistent, flavorful barbecue preparations.
The Goddess and Grocer is a farm-to-table restaurant and specialty market located in Chicago's vibrant Fulton Market neighborhood. They offer an upscale dining experience featuring fresh, seasonal cuisine sourced from local producers, complemented by a curated selection of gourmet groceries, wines, and artisanal products. The restaurant combines fine dining with an accessible marketplace concept, making it a destination for both casual shopping and elevated meals.
JJ Catering & Events is a full-service catering company based in Chicago's Near West Side that specializes in creating memorable dining experiences for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations. They offer customizable menus and event coordination services designed to meet the specific needs and preferences of their clients. With a focus on quality food and professional service, JJ Catering & Events handles everything from menu planning to on-site execution.
Revel Global Events is a Chicago-based event planning and management company specializing in corporate events, conferences, and celebrations. Based in the South Loop, they handle full-service event coordination from concept through execution, managing logistics, vendor relationships, and on-site production to bring events to life.
The Food Truck Hub & Event Experiences is the top-ranked catering provider in Chicago with a Lantern Score of 84.99/100 and 5-star rating from 139 reviews. They specialize in connecting clients with curated food trucks and handle all logistics, coordination, and on-site management for corporate events, weddings, and private parties.
Signature Catering by Ovy is the top choice for upscale weddings, with a Lantern Score of 84.99/100 and 5-star rating from 140 reviews. Led by Chef Ovy, they bring Michelin-starred culinary expertise and Romanian farm-to-table traditions, and specialize in weddings under 150 guests.
Nicole Jordan Catering (Lantern Score: 84.55/100, 5★ from 92 reviews) and Elite Personal Chefs (Lantern Score: 82.74/100, 4.9★ from 82 reviews) both offer weekly meal delivery services. Nicole Jordan Catering specializes in freshly-prepared menus for corporate events and meal delivery, while Elite Personal Chefs brings restaurant-quality cooking directly to your home.
Catering Out the Box Llc (Lantern Score: 82.14/100, 4.9★ from 56 reviews) specializes in healthy, affordable catering for corporate offices. They offer boxed lunch delivery for daily or meeting lunches, providing quality options without premium pricing for budget-conscious hosts.
El Siete Catering (Lantern Score: 79.62/100, 4.7★ from 97 reviews) specializes in authentic Mexican cuisine for all event types, while Slice Factory Catering & Events (Lantern Score: 78.13/100, 5★ from 17 reviews) focuses on pizzas and Italian cuisine with customizable menus for events of all sizes.
Hearty Boys (Lantern Score: 81.36/100, 4.8★ from 104 reviews) is run by celebrity chefs Dan Smith and Steve McDonagh and is known for their personalized approach to event cuisine for weddings and corporate events. CMB Catering (Lantern Score: 84.49/100, 5★ from 88 reviews), led by chef-proprietor Mychael Bonner, also provides world-class culinary creations.