March 5, 2020

ILEA Masters’ Dinner 2020

March 5, 2020

ILEA Masters’ Dinner 2020

We were proud to be the caterer once again for the ILEA (International Live Events Association) Chicago Chapter’s annual Masters’ Dinner.

The dinner took place after the Day of Education. Invited attendees included only those ILEA members who have worked in the special events industry for a minimum of 10 years or have been a business owner for a minimum of 5. Conversation and conviviality filled this lovely evening!Read More…


February 25, 2020

Our Favorite Recipes: Parmesan Artichoke Dip

February 25, 2020

Our Favorite Recipes: Parmesan Artichoke Dip

It’s no secret we love food. We love to cook it, eat it, and share it. To celebrate the vast Catering by Michaels repertoire, we want to take an opportunity to share some of those items which have become perennial favorites with clients and the entire Catering by Michaels family alike.

Today, we take a look at the humble and oh-so-delicious Parmesan Artichoke Dip.

Catering by Michaels Artichoke Parmesan Dip

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December 17, 2019

Handy Tips for Planning a Chicago New Year’s Eve Event

December 17, 2019

Handy Tips for Planning a Chicago New Year’s Eve Event

For many people, nothing beats spending New Year’s Eve at home. The calm of knowing you won’t miss a table at your favorite restaurant or have to make compromises because things don’t go as planned is an appealing way to usher in the new year.

Whether you chill out on the couch all night or have some friends and family over, these tips will help ensure a great night:

Avoid FOMO

Kick in the new years with a catered New Years celebration

FOMO is the fear of missing out on something legendary which might happen…and you won’t be there to witness it. Being anxious that you’re missing out on something big somewhere else (fireworks, anyone?) isn’t the best way to spend your time.

The goal is to enjoy your space, with your couch and with your friends. Don’t be all over social media viewing everyone’s posts or glancing longingly out the window — unless you have a great view.

If you think you might miss something important, then perhaps you should go out. Who knows, you might actually have fun!

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December 10, 2019

4 Things to Do in Chicago this Christmas

December 10, 2019

4 Things to Do in Chicago this Christmas

Christmas in Chicago is certainly something to be excited about! The city offers something for everyone looking to enjoy and spread the cheer. This happy holiday mood starts at Thanksgiving and lasts all through New Year’s Eve.

You will definitely find seasonal fun in the many magical traditions; from the displays, to the ceremonies, and the food (ah, yes, the food!). If you’re torn when it comes to deciding on things to do with your loved ones celebrating Christmas in Chicago this year, get inspired by these activities to provide a memorable holiday experience.

#1: Attend top Christmas shows and concerts

Attend concert in Chicago during Christmas Season

Is there a better way to spread the cheer than to sing along to Christmas carols, jingle bells, and Handel? While some of the most high-profile concerts of the season don’t happen until the last day on New Year’s Eve, there’s still plenty to see during the rest of the Christmas season.

One of the most interesting shows to attend is Joffrey Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”. Showing at the beautiful Auditorium Theater, from November 30 to December 29, The Nutcracker is an annual holiday ballet that pays homage to the city and its inhabitants. It has been showing since 1987!

Additionally, Mannheim Steamroller, the top-selling holiday act of all time, continues to spread the Yuletide cheer throughout the US and luckily, they will be performing in Chicago.

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Influenced by his love for travel and cooking, chef Andrew Zimmerman has married his two great loves into one phenomenal concept — and its name is Proxi.

Inspired by street food from around the world, this Chicago-based restaurant takes patron’s palates on a journey through Asia, India, Mexico, and beyond.

Zimmerman’s passion for flavor and ability to blur the lines when it comes to different types of cuisine is why Proxi is one of the Chicago restaurants we love! Let Proxi’s menu take you around the world, one boundary-blurring dish at a time.

The Setting: Raw and Elegant

Located in Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood, Proxi fits in comfortably on the prestigious Restaurant Row.

What Zimmerman has been able to express through his food, restaurant designer Meyer Davis has captured in terms of the restaurant’s ambiance. An undeniable elegance sets the stage from the moment you enter the restaurant.

A playful balance of raw industrial elements and warm, inviting furnishings mirror the juxtaposition of Proxi’s fusion food style.

The vibe is both swanky and inviting, with a dining room and lounge divided by one long central bar. Patrons have the opportunity to reserve a seat at the chef’s table overlooking the open kitchen.

Proxi in Chicago’s West Loop

Proxi Chicago Beautiful Restaurant Bar

(Photo credit: ProxiChicago.com)

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