OUR OFFERINGS

  • Small bites and tapas can start an event or simply BE the event! Here's a sampling of our overture options!

    SEE BELOW FOR SAMPLE MENUS!

  • Arie, the plural of Aria, which represent the main songs in an opera, stand for our multi-course options.

    Our menu inspirations span the globe and we enjoy fusing classic and modern techniques. No two menus are ever the same.

    SEE BELOW FOR SAMPLE MENUS!

  • Crescendo is an Italian word derived from crescere meaning "to grow". In music, a crescendo is a gradual increase of intensity and volume.

    As an accompaniment to the culinary side of Culinary Crescendo, Jacqueline performs musical selections from beloved operas for small gatherings and events. At Culinary Crescendo we like to think of the music being inspired by the food and the food being inspired by the music.

OVERTURES

  • Stout Braised Short Rib Sliders

    Chicken and Waffle Bites

    Old Bay Langostino Rolls

    Housemade 'Nduja Cracker

    Roasted Sirloin Skewers

    Blue Crab Tartlet

    Green Chili Polenta Triangles

    Fava Bean Crostini

  • Chef Built Tacos

    Carved Beef Tenderloin

    Customized Pastas

    A la minute Guacamole

  • Classic Crudités

    Artisanal Charcuterie and Cheeses

    Fresh and Dried Fruits

    Grand Seafood Displays

    Seasonal Spreads and Schmears

    Breads, Crackers and Toasts

  • Rice Krispie Bites

    Petite Macarons

    Mini Pancake Stacks

    Whoopie Pies

    Brownie Bites

  • “Culinary Crescendo is a delightful surprise! The talented chef himself is on hand to explain the excellent cuisine and engage with your guests. You might also enjoy a beautiful aria sung by the chef’s kitchen and life partner, a world-class soprano. A caterer not to be missed.”

    — William N., Northside College Prep & Mangel Florist

  • "What truly set them apart was the warmth and humanity they brought to the experience, from the delicious menu to the moving moment when Jacque sang. By the end of the gatherings, they no longer felt like vendors, but like part of our family who helped turn a special occasion into something truly unforgettable."

    — Sharon, Michael, & Jonah N.

  • "Jacque and Ian have provided everything from fancy passed hors d’oeuvres at a reception for over a hundred people to a casual “Chicago beef” sandwich buffet for a late-night bite at the end of a long day for tens of people, and we have loved it all!

    - Suzanne W., Sr. Pastor of All Saints’ Episcopal Church

  • "Culinary Crescendo made our Christmas party effortless. Highly recommend for anyone wanting premium food and a stress-free experience!"

    — Rebecca I., ArtWell Therapy Center

ARIE EXPERIENCE

  • Cold Smoked Salmon

    tarragon creme fraîche, rye, preserved yolk

    Heritage Lettuces

    beluga lentils, golden beet, buttermilk dill

    Diver Scallops

    pea purée, crispy prosciutto, calabrese oil

    Local Whitefish

    mung bean noodles, celeriac, kalamansi

    Caramelized Oxtail

    red cabbage orzo, muscovado agrodolce, fennel frond

    Sweet Rice

    pandan glaze, sour mango

  • Polpetti Marinara

    traditional meatball, ricotta salata, marinara picante, pesto aioli

    “O Sole Mio”

    Lago Michigan Cesare

    little gem lettuce, parmesan, house croutons, smoked trout, caesar dressing

    Paccheri alla Aragosta

    lobster, sweet potato velouté, calabrian bomba

    “O mio babbino caro”

    Costine di Manzo

    barolo braised short rib, creamy polenta, carrot fennel gremolata

    “Nessun dorma”

    Nonna Agnes’ Italian Torta

    italian cream cake, coconut, walnut, cream cheese chantilly

  • Pimento

    extra sharp cheddar, nashville hot cracker

    Squash

    pickled squash, berbere

    Beet

    blackberry agrodolce, feta, mint

    Sea Bass

    butternut squash hollandaise, leek, fennel, pecan

    Striploin

    potato pave, horseradish, port demi

    Apple 2.0

    stewed apple, cinnamon mascarpone, pie dough chips, 24-month sartori cheddar

Still have questions? Take a look at the FAQ or reach out anytime. If you’re feeling ready, contact us!

Contact Us!

  • We design experiences, not just menus—pairing food, sound, and atmosphere to create something immersive and memorable for your guests.

  • Absolutely. Every menu is tailored to your preferences, seasonality, and the story you want your event to tell!

  • You can reach us anytime via our contact page or email. We aim to respond quickly—usually within 1-2 business days.

  • Yes—we can assist with full event styling, service, and curated details so everything feels cohesive from start to finish!