Business Details
43 Years
experience
Chicago's Premier Catering & Event Planning Services
Food For Thought has been redefining the catering industry in Chicago since 1983. Our company was founded on the principle that food should be more than sustenanceit should create memorable experiences that reflect our clients' unique visions. With over four decades of experience, we've built a reputation as a leader in culinary innovation, serving 1.5 million guests annually across 100+ Chicagoland venues. Our team of Michelin-rated chefs combines technical expertise with creative flair to craft menus that leverage seasonal ingredients and global culinary trends. We distinguish ourselves through our triple bottom line approach, prioritizing sustainability in our sourcing practices and environmental stewardship.Our event specialists bring technical precision to logistics while maintaining the personal touch that makes each event feel intimate. As both designers and operators, we maintain rigorous quality control across our 40+ year partnerships with cultural institutions like the Art Institute of Chicago. Our commitment to excellence extends to our staffing practices, ensuring every team member embodies our values of inclusivity and professionalism. This comprehensive approach has earned us recognition as Chicago's top caterer, with clients returning for our ability to consistently exceed expectations in both execution and creativity.
Services
Full-Service Catering
Wedding Planning
Corporate Event Planning
Drop-Off Catering
Venue Rental Coordination
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- 40 years of experience with 100+ Chicagoland venue partnerships
- Michelin-rated culinary team creating seasonal, locally-sourced menus
- Triple bottom line commitment to people, products, and planet
- Award-winning event specialists managing logistics from concept to execution
- Exclusive venue rates and destination event capabilities through AFAR Events
Associations and certifications
- ISO 22000
- Safe Quality Food Institute Level 2
What people say
Phenomenal food
Creative ideas
Impeccable service
Stress-free planning
Flawless execution
Services
Full-Service Catering
Our full-service catering combines culinary excellence with meticulous event execution. Michelin-rated chefs create customized menus using fresh, locally sourced ingredients while our event specialists manage logistics from initial consultation to day-of coordination. This comprehensive approach ensures seamless integration of food presentation, staffing, and venue requirements for weddings, galas, and corporate events.
Wedding Planning
Comprehensive wedding planning services guide couples through every stage of event creation. From venue selection and vendor coordination to day-of management and custom timeline development, our specialists ensure stress-free execution of the couple's vision. Exclusive venue rates and design expertise create cohesive celebrations that reflect personal style.
Corporate Event Planning
Strategic corporate event planning services help businesses create impactful gatherings. Our specialists develop branded experiences through theme creation, floor plan design, and vendor management. Destination capabilities through AFAR Events allow execution of events in any location while maintaining Chicago-level quality standards for client meetings, product launches, and company celebrations.
Drop-Off Catering
Professional drop-off catering delivers chef-prepared meals with full presentation support. Our team handles precise timing, buffet setup with detailed item labeling, and post-event cleanup. This service combines culinary excellence with logistical convenience for office meetings, training sessions, and corporate gatherings requiring reliable, high-quality food service without on-site staff.
Venue Coordination
Venue coordination services leverage 40 years of local expertise and 100+ venue partnerships. Our specialists provide location recommendations based on event requirements, manage contract negotiations, and ensure space utilization maximizes guest experience. This includes exclusive access to Mae District Event Venue with special rates for clients using our planning services.
People
Nancy Sharp
Founder
Pioneering Chicago's catering industry since 1983, Nancy established Food For Thought's commitment to culinary innovation and sustainable practices. Her vision created the company's triple bottom line approach focusing on people, products, and planet.
Voula Litsogiannis
Co-CEO
As Co-CEO, Voula oversees strategic operations and sustainability initiatives. With two decades of leadership experience, she has expanded the company's venue partnerships and strengthened its commitment to ethical sourcing and environmental stewardship.
Adam Wendt
Executive Chef
Leading the award-winning kitchen, Adam brings Michelin-starred expertise to menu creation. His culinary vision combines seasonal ingredients with global influences, maintaining Food For Thought's reputation for exceptional food quality and presentation.
Michelle Holdeman
VP Sales & Development
Michelle directs client relations and business growth, leveraging 15+ years of event industry experience. She specializes in creating customized solutions that align with clients' brand identities and event objectives.
Dana Morones
Sales Consultant
Dana works directly with clients to understand their event needs and coordinate seamless execution. Her expertise in venue logistics and vendor management ensures smooth planning processes for weddings and corporate events.
Questions
What types of events does Food For Thought cater?
We specialize in weddings, corporate events, social gatherings, and office meal programs. Our services range from intimate meetings to large galas for up to 1,000 guests.
Do you offer both full-service and drop-off catering options?
Yes, we provide comprehensive full-service catering with on-site staff and drop-off catering with complete setup and presentation, allowing clients to choose the appropriate service level.
How does your sustainability commitment affect your services?
Our triple bottom line approach influences sourcing practices, waste reduction efforts, and venue partnerships, ensuring environmentally responsible service delivery without compromising quality or creativity.
Can you accommodate special dietary requirements?
Our chefs create customized menus with options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs, ensuring all guests enjoy exceptional culinary experiences.
Do you work with clients outside the Chicago area?
Through our AFAR Events division, we provide destination event planning and catering services nationwide while maintaining our signature quality standards.
What sets your event planning services apart?
Our combination of culinary expertise, venue partnerships, and creative design capabilities creates cohesive events that exceed expectations in both execution and guest experience.
