Logo for Blue Plate

Blue Plate

Cover photo of Blue Plate
Cover photo of Blue Plate
Cover photo of Blue Plate
Cover photo of Blue Plate
Cover photo of Blue Plate
Logo for Blue Plate

Caterer

Blue Plate

Based in Chicago, IL, USA

Logo for Blue Plate
Photos
2,659
Albums
117

Average Response Time 1-2 days

About Blue Plate

Founded in 1983

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.

Available In

  • Chicago

Event Albums 107

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26
Featured photo from Dance the Night Away with the Dinosaurs at this Chicago Landmark Wedding

Dance the Night Away with the Dinosaurs at this Chicago Landmark Wedding

Chicago, IL, USA

Credited by Elegante Weddings and Events

Wedding

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Pricing Packages

  • Blue Plate Pricing

    Minimum Spend
    $200

    Let's bring your vision to the table: https://blueplatechicago.com/contact-us/

Services

  • Servers

  • Kosher

  • Gluten-free

  • Food Trucks

  • Virtual Events

  • Vegetarian & Vegan

  • Halal

  • Desserts & Cakes

  • Bar Services & Beverages

  • South Asian

Featured Video

FAQs 5

What makes your catering style unique?
Our catering style is rooted in seasonality, driven by local sourcing, and elevated through thoughtful, chef-inspired menus. We believe every event deserves food that’s not only beautiful and delicious, but also infused with creativity and reflective of its moment.
Do you offer catering options to accommodate special dietary needs?
Yes, we have a wide variety of menu items including vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, nut free, and dairy free items, and we will work with you to ensure your custom menus suit all guest dietary needs.
What are my options for food display and service?
We offer thoughtfully crafted menus for stations, passed, and seated events — and can bring your vision to life with themed menus, custom signage, and decor. Our in-house fabrication shop creates bespoke serving pieces, carts, and decorative elements tailored to your event’s unique style and theme.
What venues have you worked at before?
With deep roots in Chicago’s event scene, Blue Plate is a preferred catering partner at more than 100 of the city’s most iconic and sought-after venues. Visit the full list here: https://blueplatechicago.com/our-venues/
Do you offer bar or liquor packages?
Yes, we offer customizable bar and liquor packages.

Meet The Team

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Picture of Jim Horan

Jim Horan

CEO & Founder

Jim Horan founded Blue Plate in 1983 with a simple yet ambitious vision: to bring quality food and service to Chicago’s catering scene. Under his leadership, Blue Plate has grown into one of the city’s most respected and innovative catering companies, known for culinary excellence, hospitality, and creative event experiences. Jim continues to guide the company with a focus on community, collaboration, and a passion for delivering exceptional service.

Press & Recognition 17

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Average Response Time 1-2 days