Art of Catering Food
August 10 - 11, 2026
Allium Rooftop by Blue Plate CateringChicago, IL

Elevate Your Catering with Culinary Expertise & Creativity

The Art of Catering Food brings fresh ideas, expert techniques, and real-world strategies to help chefs and caterers create unforgettable dining experiences.

A Look Back at AOCF 2025

This year, we once again brought chefs from all walks of life together for a two-day intensive featuring experts who introduced attendees to new ingredients, fresh ideas for menus, recipes, and stations, and provided insight into upcoming trends. The culinary inspiration was limitless.

Here's a taste of what attendees experienced!

Featured Recipes to Welcome Fall!

Carrot Wellington with Parsnip Purée, Chestnut Cream, Dill Oil, Lemon, Red Mustard Frills, Red Vein Sorrel (V)

AJ Harris

Dish Food & Events

Taber Corn, Sweet Potato & Bacon Chowder

Jeremy Langemann

Bingeman's Catering

Jackfruit & Coconut Grits

Keyon Hammond, Get Plated

Boris Seymore, BDS Catering

HUNGRY FOR KNOWLEDGE?

Whether you are looking for ways to enhance your operations or want to liaise with, and learn from, and see what catering chefs around the country are doing to appeal to new clients, the Art of Catering Food has something for you!

During this intensive two-day program, you’ll:

Education

Connect with Industry Leaders

Build relationships with passionate chefs like you to expand your culinary network and business opportunities.

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Taste & Learn

Experience inspiring hands-on culinary demonstrations and exclusive tastings led by expert chefs.

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Explore Emerging Trends

Discover new culinary techniques and ingredients to keep your catering offerings fresh and competitive.

2025 Attendee

Insightful

All of the presentations were very insightful, and I came away really learning a lot. Also came away knowing that our company had the same issues as others, and it was good to know that we were on the right track as well.