Grand Cru Hospitality Competitors

Kendall College of Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management at National Louis University is focused on helping students turn their passions into a career they will love. We offer an immersive, hands-on approach to learning combined with career specific internships that help prepare our students to graduate ready for the world.

Blue Plate was founded in 1983 by Jim Horan, a social worker who spent his weekends cooking for friends’ parties - driven by a passion for bringing people together through food. What began with a grill and a big heart has grown into one of Chicago’s most trusted catering companies. Today, over 40 years later, Blue Plate is an award-winning hospitality leader known for delivering exceptional experiences across weddings, corporate events, and social celebrations. Our philosophy, “We Care More,” is at the heart of everything we do - brought to life by a team of dedicated culinary and service professionals who bring creativity, warmth, and precision to every event. Our chef-driven menus are made fresh from scratch at our USDA-certified facility in Fulton Market and fully customized to reflect your style and needs. Whether you're hosting an intimate gathering or a large-scale gala, we offer full-service catering, staffing, and event coordination, ensuring every detail is thoughtfully handled. With preferred status at over 100 of Chicago’s most iconic venues, and the distinction of being the city’s first Green Restaurant Association-certified caterer, Blue Plate is proud to lead with purpose, passion, and a commitment to making every event unforgettable.

Taste Buds Kitchen specializes in fresh and unique cooking events. Our mission is to delight our guests through delicious culinary entertainment experiences! What began as a few holiday baking classes and cupcake-making birthday parties under the name Cupcake Kids! has grown into a nationally recognized brand. Today, Taste Buds Kitchen offers a diverse array of hands-on cooking adventures, including classes, birthday parties, camps, and special events. With a well-balanced mix of savory and sweet recipes, we create fun and memorable experiences for all ages, from 2 to 99. Taste Buds Kitchen has expanded from its flagship location in New York City to multiple franchise locations across the United States—and we’re rapidly growing! Our franchisees bring the joy of culinary entertainment to communities nationwide, fostering connections, learning, and creativity in the kitchen. Recognized as the “Best Kids Cooking Class” by New York Magazine and featured in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, NBC, CBS, Fox News, and more, Taste Buds Kitchen is proud to be a leader in the culinary entertainment industry. Looking for a business opportunity with a proven model and national acclaim? Taste Buds Kitchen offers franchise opportunities for passionate entrepreneurs ready to bring our engaging cooking experiences to their communities. Join us in spreading the joy of cooking and create your own success story with Taste Buds Kitchen.