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

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!

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!