Business Details
37 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Catering Partner in Chicago
Founded in 1989 by Wendy Pashman, Entertaining Company has established itself as a leader in Chicago's catering industry, specializing in global fusion cuisine and immersive culinary experiences. Our team combines decades of expertise with a passion for cultural storytelling through food, offering tailored services for weddings, corporate events, and cultural celebrations. We prioritize sustainability through locally sourced ingredients, composting programs, and eco-friendly serving materials, while maintaining a commitment to dietary inclusivity with allergy-sensitive and plant-based options.Our partnerships with over 50 venues and recognition for innovative menu design underscore our position as a trusted authority in event catering. With a focus on client collaboration and attention to detail, we transform events into memorable sensory experiences that reflect each client's unique vision.
Services
Wedding Catering
Corporate Events
Indian Celebrations
Jewish Holidays
Boat Catering
Bar/Bat Mitzvahs
Gala Events
At-Home Catering
Conference Catering
Social Events
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- Over 35 years of culinary innovation and event expertise
- Custom global fusion menus with cultural authenticity
- Comprehensive sustainability program with 99% plastic reduction
- Allergy-sensitive and plant-forward menu options available
- Preferred caterer at 50+ Chicago venues
What people say
Outstanding food
Flawless service
Creative adaptability
Professional staff
Memorable experiences
Services
Wedding Catering
Our wedding catering combines cultural traditions with modern culinary innovation. From intimate gatherings to grand galas, we create customized menus reflecting couples' heritage and personal tastes. Our team specializes in multi-cultural weddings, offering Jain, Halal, and kosher-style options while maintaining artistic presentation and dietary inclusivity.
Corporate Events
Elevate corporate gatherings with our tailored catering solutions. We provide breakfast buffets, networking luncheons, and formal dinners that enhance professional events. Our service includes themed presentations and dietary-conscious menus, supported by experienced staff ensuring seamless execution for groups of all sizes.
Indian Celebrations
Specializing in modern Indian catering with authentic regional flavors. We offer plated service and buffet options accommodating religious dietary needs, including Jain and vegetarian requirements. Our menus blend traditional recipes with contemporary presentation, supported by dcor coordination for cohesive event design.
Jewish Holidays
Our Jewish holiday catering honors traditional foods with modern interpretations. We provide Sephardic and Ashkenazi classics alongside plant-based alternatives, with kosher-style preparation available. Specialized menus for Passover, Hanukkah, and Rosh Hashanah feature both traditional dishes and contemporary adaptations.
Boat Catering
Creating memorable onboard experiences through our partnership with First Lady Cruises. We offer seasonal menus featuring Chicago classics and global cuisine adapted for lakefront settings. Our service includes themed cocktail hours and buffet presentations designed for stability and presentation on water.
People
Wendy Pashman
Founder
Founder of Entertaining Company since 1989, Wendy Pashman combines global culinary inspiration with event design expertise. Her leadership emphasizes cultural storytelling through food and sustainable practices, shaping the company's innovative approach to catering.
Julie Fitzgerald
President
With over 20 years at Entertaining Company, Julie Fitzgerald oversees operations with meticulous attention to detail. As President since 2020, she ensures exceptional client service and event execution, leveraging extensive experience across all event types.
Shawn Doolin
Creative Culinary Director
Shawn Doolin leads culinary innovation with fearless creativity. His global perspective and passion for gastronomy drive menu development, blending traditional techniques with contemporary presentation to create distinctive dining experiences.
Denise Robinette
Senior Sales Consultant
Denise Robinette, with 20+ years in hospitality, specializes in creating dynamic events. Her expertise in event production and client relations has made her a key figure in delivering exceptional catering experiences for over 600 annual events.
Kenneth Woodman
Sales Consultant
Kenneth Woodman combines design expertise with catering knowledge to create visually stunning events. His background in interior design informs his approach to event styling, ensuring cohesive aesthetics that complement culinary presentations.
Questions
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover (with 3% processing fee), wire transfers, checks, and money orders.
Do you offer tastings?
Yes, tastings are available after finalizing your menu and budget with your sales consultant.
Can you accommodate special dietary needs?
Yes, we provide allergy-sensitive, vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian options. Note that we are not a nut-free or gluten-free facility.
Do you work at specific venues?
We are preferred caterers at 50+ Chicagoland venues. Contact us to confirm your venue's status and requirements.
Can we bring our own alcohol?
Venue policies determine alcohol service. If permitted, we'll provide soft drinks and bartenders while serving your provided alcohol.
Do you cater outside Chicago?
While based in Chicago, we cater events in North Shore and surrounding Chicagoland areas.
Videos
