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
