02/17/2025
The Month of Love and History!
As we celebrate Black History Month, we at Outside the Box Catering and Events Inc. honor the incredible contributions of Black individuals whose impact on food and hospitality has profoundly shaped our world.
Black History Spotlight
Gladys Alexander
Gladys Alexander was the owner of Gladys' Luncheonette (later known as Gladys' on the South Side), a beloved soul food restaurant that was a South Side institution for decades.
Biography:
Early Life and Restaurant Beginnings: Gladys Holcomb started her restaurant in the 1950s, but it really became a cornerstone of the community in the 1960s and beyond. It was more than just a place to eat; it was a gathering spot, a place where people felt at home, and a place where you could get some of the best soul food in the city.
Soul Food and Community: Gladys' was known for its classic soul food dishes: fried chicken, collard greens, macaroni and cheese, smothered pork chops, and, of course, her famous peach cobbler. But what made Gladys' special was the atmosphere. It was warm, welcoming, and filled with the spirit of community. People came to Gladys' not just for the food, but also for the company and the sense of belonging.
Cultural Significance: Gladys' Luncheonette played an important role in the cultural life of the South Side. It was a place where people from all walks of life came together to share a meal and connect with each other. It was a symbol of the strength and resilience of the Black community in Chicago.
Legacy: Gladys' on the South Side closed its doors in 2005 after many years in business. However, its legacy lives on. It is remembered as a place where people were nourished both physically and spiritually, and where the spirit of community thrived.
Gladys story is a reminder of the importance of soul food restaurants in African American communities. They are not just places to eat; they are cultural hubs that provide a sense of belonging and connection. Gladys' Luncheonette was a prime example of this, and Gladys contributions to the culinary and cultural landscape of Chicago will not be forgotten.
Month of Love
A Sweet Valentine's Day:
We hope you all had a wonderful Valentine's Day filled with romance and delicious treats! We were so honored to cater many special occasions, from intimate dinners to grand gatherings. Thank you for choosing Outside the Box Catering to be a part of your celebrations. We loved creating menus that perfectly captured the spirit of the day.
Congratulations to the Newly Engaged!
To all the couples who got engaged this Valentine's Day, a huge congratulations from the entire Outside the Box Catering team! Planning a wedding is an exciting journey, and we'd love to help you create a truly memorable celebration.
Your Dream Wedding, Catered to Perfection:
At Outside the Box Catering, we specialize in crafting unique and personalized menus for weddings of all sizes and styles. Whether you envision a formal sit-down dinner, a casual buffet, or a creative food station experience, our team will work closely with you to bring your culinary vision to life. From passed appetizers to decadent desserts, we'll handle every detail so you can relax and enjoy your special day. Visit our website https://outsidethebox.catering/wedding-catering to learn more about our wedding catering services and schedule your wedding tasting. Let's create a wedding feast that your guests will be talking about for years to come!
February Catering Specials
To further celebrate this important month, we're offering some delicious February catering specials guaranteed to impress your guests and colleagues.
These specials are available for a limited time, so be sure to book your catering order today!
Make giving gifts easy!
Perfect for friends, family members, associates, clients and business associates!
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