Planning a wedding in the Windy City can be an exciting yet daunting task, especially when it comes to finding the perfect caterer that fits your budget. Chicago is known for its diverse culinary scene, and fortunately, this extends to its wedding catering options as well. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore some of the most affordable wedding caterers in Chicago, helping you create a memorable dining experience for your guests without emptying your wallet.

Why Choosing the Right Caterer Matters

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and the food you serve plays a crucial role in creating a lasting impression. A great caterer can elevate your celebration, leaving your guests raving about the delicious fare long after the last dance. However, finding an affordable option that doesn't compromise on quality can be challenging.

Big Star Chicago

Big Star Chicago has quickly become a favorite among couples looking for trendy and affordable catering options. Known for their Mexican-inspired cuisine, Big Star offers a unique and vibrant dining experience that's perfect for couples wanting to add a fun twist to their wedding menu.

What Sets Them Apart:

  • Hip and trendy Mexican cuisine

  • Affordable pricing, starting at the inexpensive range

  • Food truck option available for a unique wedding experience

  • Customizable menus to fit your vision and budget

Menu Highlights:

Big Star Chicago takes pride in their authentic Mexican-inspired tacos and tamales, offering a delightful twist on traditional wedding fare. Their taco selection includes:

Taco Selection:

  • Al Pastor: Chili-pineapple marinated pork shoulder

  • Baja Fish: Beer-battered cod with cabbage slaw

  • Vegetarian: Grilled portobello with corn salsa

Tamales:

  • Chicken Tinga: Shredded chicken in smoky chipotle sauce

  • Sweet Corn: Dessert tamale with caramel filling

Refreshing Ceviche and Flavorful Salsas

  • Shrimp Ceviche: Lime-marinated shrimp with fresh vegetables

  • Mango Habanero Salsa: Sweet and spicy fruit-based salsa

  • Roasted Tomatillo Salsa Verde: Tangy, smoky green salsa

Signature Cocktails and Margaritas

  • Classic Margarita: Premium tequila with fresh lime juice

  • Paloma: Tequila and grapefruit soda blend

  • Horchata Cocktail: Rum-spiked Mexican rice drink

Catering Made Simple

True to their name, Catering Made Simple offers straightforward, delicious catering options at affordable prices. This full-service catering company has built a strong reputation in the Chicagoland area for their ability to create custom menus that reflect their clients' tastes and preferences.

What Sets Them Apart:

  • Full-service catering with affordable pricing

  • Custom menu creation to suit diverse cultural preferences

  • Additional services like wait staff and photography

Menu Highlights:

Poultry Options:

  • Herb-Roasted Chicken: Tender chicken with rosemary and thyme

  • Turkey Roulade: Stuffed with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes

Beef Dishes:

  • Braised Short Ribs: Slow-cooked in red wine reduction

  • Beef Tenderloin: Served with a peppercorn cream sauce

Vegetarian and Vegan Delights

  • Eggplant Parmesan: Layers of crispy eggplant and marinara

  • Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful and protein-packed

  • Vegan Lasagna: Made with cashew "cheese" and seasonal vegetables

International Cuisine Stations

  • Mediterranean Mezze: Hummus, falafel, and grilled vegetables

  • Asian Fusion: Sushi rolls and stir-fry options

  • Italian Pasta Bar: Variety of pastas and sauces made to order

Decadent Dessert Options

  • Mini Dessert Trio: Chocolate mousse, fruit tart, and crème brûlée

  • Wedding Cake Alternatives: Cupcake tower or donut wall

  • Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Assorted flavors with toppings

Lee n' Eddies Catering

With over 50 years of experience in the catering industry, Lee n' Eddies has established itself as a reliable and affordable option for Chicago weddings. Their longevity in the business speaks volumes about their ability to consistently deliver quality food and service at reasonable prices.

What Sets Them Apart:

  • Decades of experience in wedding catering

  • Affordable pricing with complete buffet packages starting as low as $5 per person

  • Ability to cater to large groups (up to 300 guests)

Menu Highlights:

Lee n' Eddies' combination of experience, affordability, and variety makes them a solid choice for couples looking to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. Their extensive menu options:

American Classics:

  • Herb-Roasted Prime Rib: Slow-cooked and served with au jus

  • BBQ Pulled Pork: Tender pork in tangy house-made sauce

Italian Favorites:

  • Chicken Marsala: Sautéed chicken breast in rich Marsala wine sauce

  • Vegetarian Lasagna: Layers of pasta, vegetables, and three cheeses

Asian-Inspired Dishes:

  • Teriyaki Glazed Salmon: Pacific salmon with sweet soy glaze

  • Vegetable Stir-Fry: Crisp mixed vegetables in ginger-garlic sauce

Custom Menu Design

  • Personalized Appetizer Station: Tailored to couple's preferences

  • Signature Dish Creation: Unique entrée based on family recipes

  • Dietary Accommodation: Gluten-free, vegan, and allergy-friendly options

Wedding Cake Selections:

  • Traditional Tiered Cake: Various flavors and frosting options

  • Cupcake Tower: Assortment of mini cakes in decorative display

Sweets Table Offerings:

  • Chocolate Fountain: With fresh fruit and marshmallow dippers

  • Mini Dessert Bar: Assorted pastries, tarts, and mousses

Chef Paul Catering

Chef Paul Catering has carved out a niche as an affordable, full-service wedding caterer serving Northern Lake County and the suburbs between Chicago and Milwaukee. Their commitment to creating personalized menus using fresh ingredients sets them apart in the budget-friendly catering space.

What Sets Them Apart:

  • Individually created menus to fit personal style and budget

  • Use of fresh ingredients in all dishes

  • Assistance with venue selection and event planning

Menu Highlights:

Chef Paul Catering's focus on personalization and quality ingredients at affordable prices makes them an attractive option 

Signature Entrees:

  • Herb-Roasted Prime Rib: Slow-cooked with fresh herbs

  • Seafood Paella: Made with locally-sourced seafood and saffron rice

Homemade Appetizers:

  • Chicken and Mango Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls with tangy dipping sauce

  • Zucchini Pancakes: Light and flavorful vegetarian option

International Cuisine:

  • Baked Sea Bass: With tropical mango and cashew salad

  • Chinese-inspired Dishes: Catering to diverse cultural preferences