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.
Great Performances is NYC’s premier catering and events company, creating exceptional food experiences since 1980. A dynamic leader in hospitality, Great Performances is known for its culinary excellence, innovation, and a deep commitment to social responsibility and sustainability.
As the exclusive caterer for some of New York City’s most iconic institutions—The Plaza Hotel, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Apollo Theater, Brooklyn Museum, Brooklyn Academy of Music, and Wave Hill—GP brings memorable hospitality to thousands of events each year for Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, cultural organizations, and private clients.
GP's portfolio extends beyond catering, with more than 10 restaurants, cafés, and food trucks across the city, as well as partnerships with major festivals and events country-wide including the NYC Wine & Food Festival and Miami Open.
Great Performances is also proud to be the first catering company to own and operate its own organic farm. At Katchkie Farm in Kinderhook, NY, GP grows food that connects its hospitality operations to the land and reflects their commitment to a more sustainable food system.
Great ingredients. Exceptional experiences. A more sustainable future. Because Life Happens Around Food®
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.