All posts in July 2025

At its best, event catering not only provides the diners with something to eat but also assists diners to be charged, inspired. Whether it’s a black-tie event, an outdoor fundraiser, or a community-benefit event, a well-planned menu can shape the perception of your guests, can spark meaningful conversation about your mission, and foster a welcoming space. From our experience, food is a way to share a story and, if done well, a powerful influence on what usually leads people to open their hearts (and wallets).

When an evening with thoughtfully executed dining has been aligned with the ideals of the fundraiser, we’ve seen it work beautifully. The contribution may not be extravagant, but it can be elegant, meaningful, and purposeful. We will teach you how to develop an event catering plan that reflects your cause.

Set the Tone Early with Elegant Starters

The vibe begins to materialize when your guests arrive; a refined yet cozy, intentional experience. That first bite is not just food but an introduction to an understanding. Passed hors d’oeuvres carried throughout cocktail hours or pre-auction mingling have multiple purposes. They sustain and communicate the exquisite experience you have created.  They have a symbolic character.

Consider them a casual greeting, setting a jovial, generous tone for the evening. If you thoughtfully plan the hors d’oeuvres, the bite-sized delights are more than a trip for the tastebuds. They are conversation starters, elevating the vibe, and promoting donations.

Pass hors d’oeuvres to consider:

• Mini Lobster Rolls: An extravagance, saying, “you are here for something exclusive.”
• Chicken & Waffles with Honey Hot & Garlic Aioli: Playful with hearty flavour.
• Spring Pea Gnocchi with Pecorino Fondue: Seasonal, vibrant, and classy.
• Tuna Ceviche Tacos with Pickled Veg & Avocado Crema: Bright, fresh, and gluten-free.
• Mini Eggplant Milanese with Arugula: Vegetarian heaven, capturing hearts.

Tip: Choose bites that are easy to consume one-handed. Your guests will be networking and in bidding mode. The hors d’oeuvres should create energy and flow in the conversations, allowing your guests to feel relaxed and inspired while keeping the fundraiser’s cause quietly in focus.

Buffets or Plated? Choose the Format That Matches the Mission

The way we serve meals not only creates trust but also affects our guests’ experience at our event. Buffets display a relaxed and social feel, perfect for laid-back, family-friendly galas or community-driven funding events. Guests serve themselves what they want and are free to mingle, provided the flawless evening.  

Plated meals create a more formal experience. They work well for black tie affairs, corporate fundraisers, and formal galas that care about structure, timing, and elegance.  The visual element of a plated dish enhances the atmosphere and contributes to the perception of the importance and exclusivity of the occasion. 

Here are some prominent course examples:

• Cherrywood-roasted chicken with sweet potato & tomato vinaigrette.  
• Milanese crusted cod with corn succotash.  
• Zucchini purse a vegan, gluten-free, and meticulously made. 
• Herb-crusted beef tenderloin with spring vegetable ragout. 

Tip: Include two to three meal options during RSVP to streamline service and accommodate dietary distinctions. In addition to less problematic logistics, guests feel acknowledged and cared about when help is extended to respect their meal choices.

Explore more menu inspirations here!

Use Food Stations to Engage Guests & Create Moments

Food stations are more than just options for variety, they are interactive, social, and made for Instagram. They allow guests to explore, try, and share around a room at their own speed. Guests will enjoy an experience instead of just being served food when approaching a food station. Some examples include a DIY poke bowl bar or a funky craft table. Food stations can be a built-in icebreaker with fun opportunities to reinforce your work.

Food stations also have flexibility and are accommodating in celebrating guest preferences and dietary restrictions. Acknowledging guest dietary restrictions assures guests that they are being considered and included. 

Top Grazing Table Ideas:

• Cheese & Charcuterie Display: Aged cheddar, goat cheese, salami, assorted accompaniments.
• New England Raw Bar: Oysters, shrimp cocktail, and mignonette sauce.
• Farm to Table Crudités: Fresh, colorful, and inclusive.
• Poke Bar: Customizable, healthy, and trending.
• Antipasto Display: Rustic, roasted vegetables, olives, and at least one artisan bread.

Consider a chance for custom signage, or 100% cotton or 100% eco-friendly napkins that showcase your organization’s mission to keep the mission front and centre. This thoughtfulness can turn every single bite into an opportunity for advocacy.

Don’t Forget the Bar: It’s Where the Big Donations Happen

An active bar can always be beneficial with fundraisers, as it isn’t simply a place for drinks; it is a social point where you connect and converse, a place to connect (some may say with donations). A good drink selection can enhance your guests’ experience and improve your event’s vibe. Your bar brings just as much brand opportunity and marketing potential to your event as your menu, whether that’s via creative signature cocktails or thought-out levels of drinks packages. 

Top Signature Cocktails (Summer/Spring):

• Bumbleberry Lemonade: Citrus vodka, mint, fresh strawberries   
• Spicy Passion fruit Margarita:  Jalapeño, tequila, Tajin rim
• Strawberry-Basil Moscow Mule: Crisp and layered
• Cucumber Collins: Breezy, floral, and crisp
• Blueberry Lavender Vodka Spritzer: Elegant and aromatic

Regarding drinks strategy, keep the rigamarole to one or two cocktails, good wine options, and sparkling seltzer. This keeps the experience clean without sacrificing style, and your guests should concentrate on the cause, not waiting in line.

Sweet Finishes Leave a Lasting Impression

Dessert is not only the final course of a meal, but the last emotional note guests leave with! Dessert sums up the entire meal with a lasting impact on our tongue. The visitors may not remember every cocktail and appetizer, but there is something to be said about how a well-presented dessert can resonate with guests and even become a discussion topic after the event. 

Mini desserts are an apt fit for fundraisers, not just because they are lovely and look cute, but also because they align with the glorious tone of the evening. They are fun but fancy, customizable, presented well, and beautiful!

Mini Dessert Ideas for Fundraisers:

• Strawberry Shortcake with Lemon Biscuits, light and nostalgic 
• Chocolate Avocado Mousse Cups, a vegan success 
• Milk & Cookie Shooters, homage to childhood 
• Mini Cupcakes + Dessert Jars, color coordinated to theme 
• Peach & Blueberry Tart, fresh, seasonal, and memorable 

Support the Cause with Every Bite and Every Detail

The best events catering plans do more than just bring joy; they represent the mission and reinforce your values at every course. A truly impactful menu for a fundraiser should be as intentional as the cause to be supported:

• Source Locally: Support small businesses, advocate for sustainable farming, and lower your event’s carbon footprint by procuring your ingredients locally!
• Label Allergens: Thoughtfully and properly labeling allergens, dietary categories, and ingredients ensures inclusivity, making every guest feel welcomed and cared for.
• Align presentation with purpose: Make food an extension of telling the story. By using culturally significant ingredients, themed dishes on the table or a menu spurred by your nonprofit’s influence, just allow every detail to vibe with the purpose of the gathering. 

Johnny Burke Catering & Events in Boston offers seasonal, sustainable, delicious menus. When we approach fundraising catering, we consider every detail, pay attention to it, introduce garnish, flow for guests, etc., with a deep-seated purpose.

With the Right Caterer, Fundraising Feels Effortless and Delicious

From the first passed appetizer to the last sweet taste of dessert, food should do more than feed us. Food should invigorate, evoke feelings, and create memories. At fundraisers, food should connect meaningfully to every guest’s mission through proposition, experience, and taste. 

With years of experience, culinary creativity, and passion for memorable events, we’re ready to help you turn your next fundraiser into an event to remember for your lifetime. We don’t just serve food; we serve a purpose, with panache. 

So, let’s create something extraordinary together; an experience that grips hearts, pleases palates, and makes a real difference.

Hosting a gala, golf tourney, or art auction? Let’s collaborate on an event catering plan that feeds the mission and delights your guests.

Gone are the days of bland finger foods and weak tea. Now, Boston baby showers have introduced a new fashion of glamour and artistry; tasteful but with flair, and food that feels both sumptuous and satisfying.

To be honest, no one is excited to see a stale scone or boring cucumber sandwich nowadays. Food should be a delightful segment of the celebration, not an afterthought, so we share our favorite baby shower catering influences, created for modern mamas and their trendy crews. From colorful hors d’oeuvres to fantastic desserts, this will act as your guide for delicious, memorable baby shower foods.

The Art of the First Bite: Passed Hors d’Oeuvres That Wow

We always say the first bite sets the tone, and baby showers are no exception. Whether you are hosting an afternoon soiree in a lousy garden or an indoor brunch at a Boston event space, passed hors d’oeuvres can feel delightfully lavish.

Vegetarian Favorites:

• Mini Eggplant Milanese with tomato, basil & arugula
• Spring Pea Gnocchi with Pecorino Fondue
• Native Corn & Calabrian Chili Soup Sips

From the Sea:

• Mini Lobster Rolls
• Coconut Shrimp with Ginger Orange Sauce
• Jonah Crab Cakes with Preserved Lemon Chutney

Savory Meats:

• Chicken & Waffles with Honey Hot & Garlic Aioli
• Mini Burgers with Grafton Cheddar & Steak Sauce Aioli
• Jerk Chicken on Plantain with Pineapple Chili Salsa

Tip: Make the shower feel like an upscale cocktail party with gorgeous trays of bites; it’s a bonus if they match your shower color palette!

Main Course Ideas for Seated Lunches or Buffet-Style Gatherings

Whether your gathering leans elegant and formal or relaxed, your baby shower catering should feature a main course that’s not just thoughtfully composed but also beautifully balanced, seasonal, and designed to delight every palate.

Light & Seasonal:

• Roasted Halibut with Corn & Chili Puree
• Herb Gnocchi with Pea Shoots and Lemon
• Shaved Summer Vegetable Salad with Cotija & Hazelnuts

Elevated Comfort Dishes:

• Cherrywood Roasted Chicken with Sweet Potato Salad
• Milanese Crusted Chatham Cod with Corn Succotash
• Roasted North Atlantic Salmon with Tuscan Olive Oil Puree

Planning Tip: Ask about custom dietary swaps when planning your Boston catering menu, since many of our dishes are gluten-free naturally.

Grazing Tables That Steal the Show (and the Instagram Stories)

Whether you’re looking for a more relaxed & stylish vibe or hosting a whimsical mid-afternoon baby shower, grazing tables represent the perfect intersection of aesthetic appeal & guest-friendly functionality. These grazing displays are interactive, customizable, and guaranteed to be a social media hit. 

• Cheese & Charcuterie Display with heirloom tomatoes, ricotta, burrata, and crusty artisanal bread 
• Farm-to-Table Display with colorful assortment of pickled veggies and seasonal house-made dips 
• Poke Bar featuring tuna, salmon, artisan greens & bamboo rice 
• Mini Soup Sip Station with gazpacho, corn chili, or ginger snap pea (all vegan and gluten-free) 

Pro Tip: Pair your grazing stations with a chic mini dessert bar to generate a cohesive, high-impact display that satisfies as it looks. You and your guests’ Instagram accounts will thank you later.

Sweet Finishes for a Sweet New Chapter

Baby showers catering menus are like romantic movies, incomplete without a sweet ending. Desserts are the heart of the celebration, and ours range from light to luxurious, carefully tailored to every guest’s palate, and every mama-to-be’s mood. It not only brings a sweet tone but also infuses a bright impression.

Light & Fresh Selections: 

• Spring Berry & Puff Pastry Crisp (vegan): Flaky, fruit-filled, and as cute as spring
• Fresh Peach & Blueberry Tart with Almond Crumble: Juicy and crunchy with some nutty notes
• Classic Strawberry Shortcake with Lemon Biscuits: Sunshine in every bite, nostalgic yet elevated

Rich & Indulgent Selections: 

• Valrhona Chocolate Semifreddo: Ultra-creamy and sophisticated, a chocoholic’s paradise
• Chocolate Avocado Mousse Cups (vegan): Rich & silky, and good for you, kinda
• Milk & Cookies Shooters or Cheesecake Shooters: Fun and too adorable not to snap a picture of

Party Trick: Be whimsical with your sweet spread. Have fun with custom dessert toppers or signage, such as your baby’s name, a favorite saying, or shower hashtag. It’ll even make for one fabulous Instagram post!

Signature Sips That Celebrate

No celebration feels complete without the drinks. It is wanted for any table. Just like food, beverages play a vital role in aligning a perfect vibe suiting your mood. Whether you’re sipping on mocktails or raising a toast with cocktails, a thoughtfully curated drink station can uplift the entire experience. Check out these handpicked options with and without alcohol;  they’re guaranteed to impress!

Non-Alcoholic Options:

• Strawberry Basil Lemonade
• Lavender Mint Lemonade
• Infused Water Station with cucumber and seasonal fruits

Signature Cocktails (Optional Add-Ons):

• Bumbleberry Lemonade (vodka + local berries)
• Strawberry-Basil Moscow Mule
• Blueberry Lavender Vodka Spritzer

Mom-to-be Friendly: Every cocktail can be made zero-proof. Let our team know when you plan your baby shower catering menu.

Bonus Add-Ons to Elevate the Experience

Presentation is everything. Indeed, they’re the heart and soul of the experience. A few considered extras can elevate your Boston baby shower from stylish to unforgettable; setting the tone, leaving guests with a vow impression, and ensuring each detail is photo-worthy: 

1. Customized glassware or a monogrammed back bar that matches your event theme and adds a luxe finish 
2. Mini cupcake towers or dessert walls act as a sweet conversant that becomes the epicenter of the event with show-stopping visuals
3. Floral-infused ice cubes for lemonade or spritzers that add color and elegance to every sip
4. Coffee & Tea Station with spiked options for guests that can enjoy and relax long after dessert

Consider throwing in a scent station with essential oils or candles, and a cozy corner with plush seating for new moms to push the pause button. All the extras are just additional shells of love.

Let your creative juices flow, or better yet, let us bring your vision to life.

Let Johnny Burke Handle the Details: You Just Show Up & Glow

From garden brunches to chic city venues, Johnny Burke Catering & Events brings your baby shower vision to life with delicious bites, custom cocktails, and thoughtful touches. We’ve helped Boston hosts create unforgettable moments, and we’ll do the same for you.

You focus on the fun. We’ll handle the rest.
Ready to make it happen? Contact us today and let’s create something beautiful.

Boston is a city that values innovation, collaboration, and increasingly sustainability. Whether you’re planning a leadership summit, quarterly team lunch, or full-scale conference, how you feed your guests says a lot about your company’s values. That’s why more Boston businesses are turning to sustainable corporate catering to align their events with their environmental goals.

At Johnny Burke Catering and Events, sustainability isn’t a buzzword. It’s baked into everything we do. From sourcing locally to reducing waste behind the scenes, we’re proud to help teams plan events that feel good and do good.

What Makes Catering Sustainable?

Sustainable catering goes beyond compostable forks and reusable platters. It means thoughtful sourcing, minimizing waste, and creating menus that reflect the season and region. For Johnny Burke Catering and Events, that includes:

• Sourcing produce, meat, and seafood from trusted local farms and purveyors
• Offering vegetarian, vegan, and low-impact dishes without compromising flavor
• Crafting menus based on what’s in season, reducing transportation, and improving freshness
• Minimizing disposable packaging wherever possible
• Providing compostable serviceware when requested

If your business is working toward greener goals, your catering strategy is a great place to start.

Menus with a Mission

Sustainability doesn’t mean bland. When your ingredients are sourced from local New England farms, flavor becomes the centerpiece. Our corporate catering menus are designed for a range of formats, including boxed lunches, networking receptions, working breakfasts, or plated executive dinners, and always highlight seasonal, fresh offerings.

Some current favorites from our spring and summer menu include:

Vegetarian & Vegan Options:

• Mini Bruschetta with Dijon cashew cream and heirloom tomatoes (vegan)
• Zucchini Purse with Roasted Summer Vegetables and Coconut Curry Sauce (vegan, gluten-free)
• Spring Pea Gnocchi with Pecorino Fondue and Pea Shoots (vegetarian)
• Heirloom Tomato Gazpacho Sip (vegan, gluten-free)
  

Seafood Forward Choices:

• Citrus Crab Salad Terrine with shaved rhubarb and rhubarb lime concima (gluten-free, dairy-free)
• Mini Tuna Ceviche Tacos with avocado crema (gluten-free, dairy-free)
• Seared Cape Diver Scallops served in-shell with corn purée and bacon jam
  

Meat and Poultry Highlights:

• Cherrywood Roasted Eberly Farms Chicken with heirloom tomato vinaigrette
• Mini Pulled Pork Tacos with summer slaw and cider vinaigrette (gluten-free, dairy-free)
• Herb-Crusted Devon Point Farm Beef Tenderloin with English pea purée and spring vegetable ragout

Every dish is created with care, and we’re happy to work with your team to adjust menus to fit your sustainability commitments and dietary needs.

Sustainable Sips: Thoughtful Bar Options

Hosting a networking happy hour or evening celebration? Our bar packages also reflect our sustainable values.

• Signature cocktails like the Blueberry Lavender Vodka Spritzer and Cucumber Collins use house-made syrups and fresh herbs.
• We stock regional wines, beers, and spirits, featuring selections from California, France, and Vermont alongside local favorites like Night Shift Whirlpool IPA and Downeast Cider.
• Glassware upgrades and compostable straws are available upon request, and our team is happy to customize beverage service to match your company culture and mission.

From coffee service to cocktail hour, every detail can support your greener goals.

Creating Less Waste, Without Sacrificing Presentation

A great event feels seamless, but behind the scenes, there’s always an opportunity to reduce environmental impact. We approach waste management proactively, offering:

• Compostable plates, cutlery, and napkins upon request
• Reusable serveware and linens for on-site dining
• Buffet or family-style service options to reduce packaging
• Portion-conscious planning to prevent food waste while ensuring everyone is satisfied

Our team can even help coordinate the donation of safe, untouched food in compliance with local food recovery laws when appropriate.

Why Boston Chooses Johnny Burke Catering & Events for Business Catering

We know Boston’s business community is built on intention, and your catering should reflect that. From small team luncheons to full-day summits, we offer:

• Menus tailored to your event flow and budget
  
• Creative and delicious food with flexible dietary accommodations
  
• A team that understands the logistics of professional environments
  
• A commitment to responsible sourcing, preparation, and presentation
  

Ready to Plan a More Sustainable Event?

If you’re searching for business catering in Boston that reflects your company’s values while delighting your guests, Johnny Burke Catering and Events is ready to help.

Visit our website to learn more about our full-service corporate catering options.

Let’s build an event that feeds your people and your mission.

There’s something special about the morning after a wedding. The stress is gone, the vows have been said, and the celebration is still in the air. It’s the perfect time to slow down, gather loved ones once more, and share a beautiful meal. That’s where a well-crafted post-wedding brunch comes in.

At Johnny Burke Catering and Events, we love creating brunch experiences that are relaxed, seasonal, and full of flavor. Whether you’re hosting guests at a private home, a hotel suite, or a coastal venue, our brunch catering service brings people together around thoughtful food that feels elevated yet comforting.

Why Brunch Is the Perfect Ending to a Wedding Weekend

After a night of dancing and celebration, guests crave something comforting, something that says “thanks for being here” without another big production. Brunch strikes the perfect balance between celebration and relaxation.

It gives everyone a chance to connect one more time, sip coffee (or maybe a mimosa), and relive their favorite moments from the day before. And when it’s built around seasonal ingredients and fresh presentation, a brunch menu can feel just as memorable as the wedding itself.

Building a Post-Wedding Brunch Menu, the Johnny Burke Way

Our spring and summer menus are inspired by the farms and flavors of the Northeast. Everything is crafted to be bright, fresh, and celebratory, with just the right touches of indulgence.

Here are a few of our favorite picks for a wedding brunch menu:

Start Light: Fresh First Courses & Sips

Ease into the morning with light starters that look beautiful and wake up the palate.

• Local Watermelon Salad with gold tomatoes, French feta, and tender greens
  
• Shaved Summer Vegetable Salad with cotija, raspberries, and a house-made raspberry lime vinaigrette
  
• Native Corn & Calabrian Chili Soup Sips a sweet-spicy surprise served warm or room temp
  

You can also include a few passed small bites as guests arrive, like:

• Mini Bruschetta with Dijon toasted cashew cream and baby heirloom tomatoes
  
• Spring Pea Gnocchi with pecorino fondue and fresh pea shoots
  

These dishes feel elegant but not fussy, perfect for a late morning or early afternoon gathering.

Add Comfort: Main Dishes that Satisfy

Every good brunch needs a few hearty, satisfying dishes—especially for guests recovering from a night of dancing and bubbly. For a warm and rustic presentation, we recommend offering a buffet or family-style setup, with options like:

• Herb Gnocchi with Allendale Farm peas, lemon, and pecorino
  
• Cavatelli with braised Eberly Farm chicken, broccoli, and asiago pesto
  
• Crispy Pan Roasted Eberly Farms Chicken with Manchego roasted broccolini and rosemary pan jus
  
• Zucchini Purse filled with summer vegetables and chickpeas, served with coconut curry sauce and broccoli couscous (vegan & gluten-free)
  

These selections offer a blend of flavor, texture, and seasonal ingredients that feel like a warm hug after a weekend of celebration.

Round It Out: Sides and Seasonal Vegetables

You can never go wrong with a few comforting sides and vegetables to complete the spread. For post-wedding brunches, we love incorporating:

• Creamy Parmesan Polenta or Grits
  
• Roasted Multi-Colored Marble Potatoes with rosemary and olive oil
  
• Baby Spinach with Garlic
  
• Roasted Sienna Farms Heirloom Carrots
  

All of these can be served family-style or arranged buffet-style so guests can help themselves and go back for seconds.

Add a Sweet Finish (and Maybe a Coffee Bar)

Of course, no brunch is complete without something sweet. A mini dessert table or individually plated treats can wrap up the event on a cheerful note.

Consider:

• Lemon Mascarpone Tart with fresh strawberries
  
• Fresh Peach & Blueberry Tart with Marcona almond crumble
  
• Spring Berry & Puff Pastry Crisp (vegan-friendly)
  

And for the perfect pairing, add our coffee and tea station with options like almond milk, half & half, and flavored syrups. You can even elevate it further with our spiked coffee bar add-on featuring Baileys, peppermint schnapps, and vanilla vodka.

Designed for Comfort, Served with Care

At Johnny Burke Catering and Events, we believe that the post-wedding brunch should feel like a natural extension of the celebration, not an afterthought. That’s why our team works closely with each couple to build a menu that reflects their tastes, style, and energy.

We offer full service, including setup, staffing, rentals, and custom menu design. Whether you’re envisioning something casual or more refined, our team brings the same level of care and craft that we bring to every wedding day meal.

Planning Your Brunch with Johnny Burke Catering and Events

Our brunch catering menus are available throughout the spring, summer, autumn, and fall. Every dish is rooted in local ingredients and seasonal inspiration. We’re here to make the final chapter of your wedding weekend just as memorable as the first.

To start planning your wedding catering experience, including a post-wedding brunch that your guests will rave about. Reach out to us. Let’s send your guests home with full hearts, full plates, and sweet memories.

When you think about a truly unforgettable event, whether it’s a wedding, milestone birthday, holiday party, or corporate celebration, there’s always a detail that lingers in people’s memories. Sometimes it’s the food, sometimes it’s the music. But more often than not, it’s the signature cocktail.

At Johnny Burke Catering & Events, we believe a well-made cocktail does more than fill a glass. It welcomes your guests, starts conversations, and gives your event a distinct personality. If you’re planning a gathering and searching for thoughtful, elevated cocktail catering in Boston, or want to hire talented Boston party bartenders, our seasonal signature cocktails are a great place to start.

Let’s walk through some of our most-loved creations, each one crafted with balance, seasonal ingredients, and presentation in mind.

Spring and Summer Cocktails: Light, Fresh, and Perfect for Outdoor Celebrations

As soon as the temperatures rise, our team leans into fresh citrus, herbs, berries, and a little sparkle. These cocktails were made for garden weddings, rooftop events, and backyard parties.

Bumbleberry Lemonade

A house favorite, this bright and berry-forward drink mixes citrus vodka with fresh-squeezed lemonade and local berries. We finish it with mint and a strawberry garnish. It’s cheerful, refreshing, and a conversation starter from the first sip.

Spicy Passion Fruit Margarita

If you like your cocktails with a little kick, this one’s for you. We shake up blanco tequila, orange liqueur, fresh lime, passion fruit purée, and a few slices of jalapeño, then rim the glass with Tajín. It’s bold, balanced, and disappears quickly at parties.

Blueberry Lavender Vodka Spritzer

This floral take on a classic spritz is both delicate and flavorful. We start with a blueberry-lavender infused simple syrup, add vodka and lime, and top it with club soda. It’s garnished with fresh blueberries and a lavender sprig for a pretty (and fragrant) finish.

Cucumber Collins

Clean, crisp, and ultra-refreshing, this drink blends gin, cucumber, lemon, and soda water. It’s perfect for hot afternoons and looks great in a tall glass with a thin cucumber ribbon.

Strawberry-Basil Moscow Mule

We take the classic mule up a notch by muddling strawberry purée and fresh basil with vodka, lime juice, and spicy ginger beer. Served in a copper mug and garnished with basil and a strawberry, this drink tastes as good as it looks.

Old Fashioned Paloma

This unique cocktail blends bourbon, bitters, lime, and grapefruit juice with a splash of soda water. Garnished with grapefruit and mint, it’s a lovely bridge between citrus brightness and cocktail depth.

Fall and Winter Cocktails: Cozy, Seasonal, and Full of Character

Cooler months call for warmth, spice, and rich flavors. Whether your event takes place in a rustic barn, city loft, or snow-dusted estate, these drinks help set the tone for a cozy and memorable gathering.

Apple Cider Mule

Spiced rum, apple cider, ginger beer, and fresh lime juice come together in a seasonal twist on the mule. Garnished with cinnamon and an apple slice, this is one of our most requested fall cocktails.

Maple Bourbon Smash

This cocktail feels like autumn in a glass. We combine bourbon, lemon juice, maple syrup, and fresh mint, then top it off with a splash of club soda. It’s cozy, slightly sweet, and easy to sip all evening.

Pomegranate-Cran Margarita

This winter-friendly margarita blends tequila with lime, pomegranate and cranberry juice, and agave. It’s garnished with lime and sugared cranberries for a festive, jewel-toned finish.

Winter Aperol Spritz

A twist on a warm-weather favorite, this version includes a housemade cranberry simple syrup, Aperol, prosecco, and a sprig of rosemary. It’s a favorite for holiday parties and winter weddings thanks to its balance of bitter and sweet.

The Perfect Pear

This elegant cocktail mixes gin, elderflower liqueur, pear purée, lemon juice, simple syrup, and champagne. It’s topped with a thin pear slice and adds a touch of sophistication to any occasion.

Blood Orange Bourbon Fizz

We shake up bourbon, blood orange juice, vanilla simple syrup, and top it off with soda. Garnished with a slice of blood orange and a sprig of mint, it’s bold and beautiful.

Fireside

This one is pure winter comfort. Vodka meets maple syrup, rosemary, grapefruit juice, and just a pinch of salt. Served with a rosemary garnish, it’s a great option for a fireside lounge or a winter bar setup.

More Than Just Cocktails: It’s a Full Experience

What sets Johnny Burke Catering and Events in Massachusetts apart isn’t just our ingredients or recipes; it’s the care and customization we bring to every bar setup. Whether you’re hiring us for a full-service wedding weekend or a single-night celebration, our team ensures that every cocktail is served with intention.

We offer three flexible bar packages: standard, mid-range, and premium. All featuring thoughtfully chosen spirits, mixers, garnishes, and staff. Every package includes the option to add one or more of our signature cocktails to create a drink experience that’s completely your own.

Need a champagne toast? We’ve got it. Want to add spiked coffee service to your dessert hour? We can do that too. Thinking about specialty glassware or custom bars? We love those little details just as much as you do.

Planning Cocktail Catering in Boston? Let’s Talk

We know Boston parties have a personality all their own, laid-back but elevated, timeless but fun. Our cocktail catering services are designed to match that energy, offering guests a drink they’ll remember and an experience you’ll be proud to host.

Whether you’re working with a planner or just beginning to sketch out your ideas, our bar team is ready to help you choose cocktails that align with your menu, venue, and guest list.

To get started, visit johnnyburkecatering.com. Your signature cocktail is waiting. Let’s make it unforgettable. 

Catering for multi-day events isn’t just about feeding guests, it’s about keeping the energy high, the flavors exciting, and the experience unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a multi-day wedding, a corporate retreat, or a weekend celebration with friends and family, you want every meal to feel fresh, thoughtful, and full of personality.

At Johnny Burke Catering & Events, we bring a chef-owned, farm-to-table mindset to every celebration. With rotating seasonal menus and custom options for each day, your guests are in for something new at every bite.

Day One: Impressive Welcome & Passed Bites

Imagine your guests arriving to golden hour cocktails and the aroma of sizzling pulled pork, bright citrus, and summer herbs. That’s the power of a station-style reception: memorable, inviting, and interactive. 

We recommend a station-style cocktail reception featuring:

• Mini Pulled Pork Tacos with summer slaw and cider vinaigrette (gf, df)
  
• Chicken & Waffles with honey hot drizzle and garlic aioli
  
• Mini Tuna Ceviche Tacos topped with avocado crema (gf, df)
  
• Spring Pea Gnocchi with Pecorino Fondue and Pea Shoots (v)
  
• Crispy Fried New England Clams with housemade tartar
  

Looking to make a statement? Add a Charcuterie & Heirloom Tomato Table featuring cured meats, burrata, herb-whipped ricotta, and fresh summer heirlooms.

Looking to make a statement? Add a Charcuterie & Heirloom Tomato Table featuring cured meats, burrata, herb-whipped ricotta, and fresh summer heirlooms.

Day Two: Elegant Plated Dinner That Evolves With the Season

By the second evening, guests are expecting something special, and we’re ready to deliver. Our seasonal entrées are designed to shine without repeating a single note from day one.

Let your dinner unfold like a story:

• Starter: Heirloom Tomato Gazpacho with Jonah crab & citrus salad (gf, df)
  
• Main: Herb-Crusted Devon Point Farm Beef Tenderloin with spring vegetable ragout and English pea purée (gf, df)
  
• Vegetarian Option: Seared Cauliflower Steak with golden raisin, olive & caper tapenade (gf, vegan)
  
• Side Pairings: Creamy Gruyere Potatoes and Lemon & Chervil Jumbo Asparagus (v)
  

Wrap it all up with desserts that feel like a celebration:

• Valrhona Chocolate Semifreddo with raspberry gelée and cocoa nib crumble
  
• Fresh Peach & Blueberry Tart topped with Marcona almond crumble
  

Day Three: Recovery Brunch Meets Flavor-Packed Grazing

Morning-after moments call for comfort, color, and just the right amount of indulgence. A recovery brunch or all-day grazing setup lets guests ease into their final day with food that’s both beautiful and laid-back.

Build a brunch buffet with:

• Mini Meatball Marinara on Crispy Pecorino Polenta
  
• Native Corn & Calabrian Chili Soup Sips (vegan, gf)
  
• Coconut Shrimp with ginger orange sauce (df)
  
• MapleBrook Burrata with pickled stone fruit and pecorino crisp (gf)
  

And don’t forget a donut or dessert wall if you want to end on a playful, photo-worthy note.

How We Keep It Fresh Across Days

1. Seasonal Rotation
   Our spring/summer and fall/winter menus are designed to adapt to seasonal harvests, using ingredients at their peak.
2. Presentation That Evolves
   From plated elegance to relaxed buffet-style brunches, our team crafts visually distinct experiences each day.
3. Dietary-Friendly Choices
   We offer vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options across all meal types without compromising on taste or creativity. Think:

• • Zucchini Purse with roasted vegetables and coconut curry (gf, vegan)
  • Broccoli Florets with Harissa Aioli & Salsa Verde (vegan, gf)
    

4. Never-Repeated Dishes
   No dish is duplicated across the event unless you request it. Every course brings something new to the table.

Why Choose Johnny Burke Catering & Events for Multi-Day Event Catering?

We’re not just caterers, we’re event partners. Whether you’re planning a vineyard wedding, corporate summit, or private celebration in Boston, our team handles:

• Custom menu planning
  
• On-site cooking and presentation
  
• Full dietary accommodation
  
• Event rentals, floral design & custom print menus
  

With our chef-owned vision and locally sourced ingredients, we ensure that every meal tells a story, yours.

FAQ

Q: What types of events can you cater for multiple days?
A: We specialize in multi-day weddings, destination events, corporate retreats, and weekend-long private parties.

Q: Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
A: Yes! We offer gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, and vegan options with full flavor.

Q: Do you offer different styles of service each day?
A: Absolutely. We mix and match plated, buffet, grazing, and cocktail styles to keep things fresh.

Let’s Plan Something Delicious

Your event should feel like you, layered, joyful, and full of flavor. Whether you want playful snacks like Mini Corn Dogs with Ranch or elegant entrées like Roasted North Atlantic Halibut, we’ll make every bite count.

Reach out anytime, let’s start dreaming up your menu.