X winter / spring 2026 johnathon Allen big dog deli
Catherine bersted aviary cafe
page 76 X metropolitan weddings
X winter / spring 2026 johnathon Allen big dog deli
Having grown up in his family’ s restaurant prepping food and washing dishes, Johnathon loves working with food. While he has been in the restaurant industry in this area for over 20 years, Big Dog Deli is his newest venture. Serving more than just sandwiches, they are locally owned and operated, bringing their East Coast style with bold, classic flavors to the heart of the Midwest. His“ made-from-scratch kitchen” knows how to please this area’ s tastebuds. From slider trays with mixed meats and cheeses to a grill party( think of a tailgate on steroids) of anything from tasty tri-tips to grilled salmon, Big Dog Deli is“ not your average caterer.”. Johnathon says,“ This is not for the champagne and caviar crowd. But if you want a local business with local roots where everything is fresh, homemade with no preservatives, and the food is far superior than your average deli, Big Dog Deli is a no brainer.” He loves his job and especially meeting new and interesting people.“ You never know who you will run into!”
FAVORITE MEAL TO MAKE FOR FAMILY & FRIENDS: Cioppino! An Italian seafood stew- it’ s delicious!
Catherine bersted aviary cafe
While Aviary Cafe has been in the restaurant business for a while, they launched their catering business in 2020 and it has exploded! Catherine loves“ being the one who the wedding couple requests and trusts with such an important meal. It is humbling and such a privilege building these important memories with them.” Aviary Cafe offers a wide variety of menus and options to choose from, but some of their most requested meals are their Tuscan Chicken Pasta or a classic throwback, Chicken Cordon Bleu. Not only do they offer traditional meals, Catherine loves creating fun flavor profiles for every part of the meal. From heavy appetizers with unique party skewers to crostinis with fun blends and bite-size charcuteries, Aviary Cafe enjoys creating memories with your guests. They also specialize in accommodating food allergy requests with great flavors and unique presentations- your guests will never know! Working with Aviary Cafe can be a onestop shop for your rehearsal dinner, wedding cocktail hour, wedding meal, bartending and dessert options- you are working with one vendor who can create a cohesive, seamless catering experience.
FAVORITE MEAL TO MAKE FOR FAMILY & FRIENDS: Since we have a child with celiacs, we love doing things with rice like an asian style lettuce wrap or a big salad with lots of weird random stuff and our house vinaigrette dressing- it ' s so good!