Catering Suggestions (with unusual requests)?

I don't know if this technically applies to the restaurants forum, but I figure it's my best bet for getting an answer as any forum I could dream of posting.

The quick and dirty is that my sister-in-law was engaged last month and will be planning a wedding for here in Louisville. My wife's family are all originally from Ethiopia (wife, her sisters, and parents moved to Italy in the early 80's, then to the states about ten years ago), and as such would like to have traditional Ethiopian offerings for the reception. When my wife and I were married three years ago, the ladies in the family made all the Ethiopian food and we had to track down a caterer who would agree to serve it despite having no involvement with its prep.

While our experience with our caterer was totally fine, we felt we were a little lucky to track down anyone in Louisville who would cater food they did not actually prepare as well as serve good meals of their own creation. We would recommend this woman's business to sister (in-law), but thought we'd petition the suggestions of our local foodies to possibly give sister (in-law) more taste-testing options for her big day.

Thanks in advance for any advice you can offer.

I second the Queen of Sheba.... and not to be rude.... Can I crash the Wedding? That will be an event!

Have a good friend by the name of Ashwanish!!!!

Tell you what, I'd be happy to donate my efforts in exchange for the learning experience. Quid pro quo, so to speak. I have catering equipment for service up to 250 and have access to a few different professional kitchens. Creative, one of a kind dishes are no problem. Legally we are fine, as I would be a friend helping a friend. Liability issues are the same as if your family cooked themselves. The only scheduling snafus would be derby and mother's day...

This offer may seem a bit out of the norm upon first glance, but I assure you I am quite sincere. Every chef that I admire takes the time for these working sabbatical situations. Batali, Adria, Vongerichten, Morimoto, etc, etc... When Ethan told me that Todd Richards worked as a sushi slave for free (on his day off from running the Oakroom,) I developed a new respect for the man. The opportunity to spend a day cooking alongside Ethiopian matronage, needless to say, sounds like a huge opportunity to me!

PM me if you are interested. I'd be happy to email you my portfolio of recent work and references.

Stephen, that is quite kind of you and I will be sure to mention that to my sister-in-law.

Just as clarification, however, it is not that we need anyone to MAKE Ethiopian food. Her family knows the folks at Queen of Sheba, but they aren't looking for a caterer who makes it. I believe they would prefer to make the food themselves, but wanted to find more caterers out there who would agree to serve the Ethiopian food while making their own traditional banquet items for the less adventurous folks attending the wedding.

Stephen, that is quite kind of you and I will be sure to mention that to my sister-in-law.

Just as clarification, however, it is not that we need anyone to MAKE Ethiopian food. Her family knows the folks at Queen of Sheba, but they aren't looking for a caterer who makes it. I believe they would prefer to make the food themselves, but wanted to find more caterers out there who would agree to serve the Ethiopian food while making their own traditional banquet items for the less adventurous folks attending the wedding.

Oh yea, I get that... I wouldn't be there trying to design anything, only if asked. I would be there as an intern, so to speak. Trading hard work for knowledge and friendship. If I understand you right, I should be peeling onions and taking out trash all day and then working the buffet at the event, allowing the matrons to enjoy the night. Not missing out on it because they are filling chafers and whatnot.

That's the idea, right?

Now you can go to a caterer or restaurant and pay for the standard dishes common to every wedding, generally designed for profitablility. Nothing wrong with that or with the many fine caterers in our city. They have to run successful businesses. I am giving you another alternative. The 'I've got a chef in my family' option. I do this because I love it, ask anybody who knows me...

I won't say anything else, I don't want to hijack your thread.

Call Anoosh Shariat, In full disclosure he is my other 1/2, but has never had a problem w/ serving food others have made. He catered a Peruvian wedding reception last year where lots of guests brought there own dishes.
He is an extremely talented chef as well, and can help make your event the best.
His number is 407-0360.
Sounds like a lot of fun.

Anoosh does a fantastic job and I have no relation. Just as an FYI he is one of only 2 legendary chefs in Louisville. The only 2 are Agostino Gabrielle from Vincenzo's and Anoosh Shariat. He is a true talent, has a wonderful heart and a joy in any setting.

Anoosh is one wonderful. He catered my wedding years ago...He is my first choice and a wonderful guy!

Anoosh does a fantastic job and I have no relation. Just as an FYI he is one of only 2 legendary chefs in Louisville. The only 2 are Agostino Gabrielle from Vincenzo's and Anoosh Shariat. He is a true talent, has a wonderful heart and a joy in any setting.

really?

Just another thought . . . try Sullivan College or JCC Culinary Dept.

Many of the students there moonlight to earn cash, are experienced (due to education), and likely could help with "standard" fill-ins.

[Robin Garr]

only 2 legendary chefs in Louisville.

I'm with Matt on this. Love 'em both, but only 2?

Sorry, I have to go with Anoosh too, he's a friend, and has been doing this for a VERY long time!


Hi Paula!

Help my vote as being in favor of Anoosh also! I've eaten at every restaurant he's been in the kitchen at and have enjoyed every one. In addition he got a great personality and will bend over backwards to make sure everyone is happy. Can't wait for his new restaurant to open!

We'd be happy to talk to you, just call North End before 3 pm tomorrow, and ask for Torri, Nora or Christopher. Sounds like you just need servers to me, I'm there! 896-8770