The Vision Behind the Menu
At Viridian Catering, we believe that world-class dining belongs in the intimacy of your home or your most cherished venues. Led by Chef Andrew Brennan, our approach is built on the belief that a menu should be as unique as the event it celebrates. We don’t just provide food; we craft culinary experiences that allow you to step away from the kitchen and fully immerse yourself in the moment. We prioritize seasonal, fresh ingredients and organic sourcing to ensure every dish is vibrant and flavorful. From multi-course estate dinners in Barrington Hills to nourishing wellness retreats in Woodstock, our menus are 100% tailored to your specific dietary needs and culinary preferences. Whether you require Mediterranean-inspired plates, Northern Indian flavors, or traditional European classics, each menu is a custom collaboration between the Chef and the client.
Our Commitment to the Community
Excellence extends beyond the plate. Our professional team is trained to provide seamless, attentive service that anticipates your guests' needs before they arise. As a modern catering company, we are also deeply committed to sustainability. By limiting waste through precise ingredient sourcing and eco-conscious service items, we strive to ensure that your flawless event leaves a positive impact on our local environment.
Meet Chef Andrew
Executive Chef and Co-Owner
With over 16 years of culinary leadership and two decades in the hospitality industry, Chef Andrew is dedicated to exceeding expectations through both taste and artistry. From intimate estate dinners in Barrington Hills to expansive galas across the North Shore, his attention to detail and ability to anticipate a client’s needs make him an invaluable partner in event planning.
Andrew’s philosophy is rooted in the seasons. He meticulously tests every recipe and curates tailored menus that take inspiration from the local environment. His goal is simple: to ensure every plate is as beautiful as it is delectable, leaving your guests nourished and inspired.
Viridian was founded on a shared passion for hospitality. Andrew is the co-owner and founder alongside his partner, Aleksa Lederer. Together, they have built Viridian into a premier catering choice for those who value fresh, organic ingredients and professional, seamless service.
To discuss your event and ideas with Chef Andrew, contact us today!
Aleksa Lederer
Founder and Co-Owner
Aleksa Lederer's relentless creativity and unwavering support are the bedrock of Viridian Catering. With over two decades of experience spanning business and arts, she is pivotal to the company's long-term vision and continued expansion. Affectionately referred to by Chef Andrew as his culinary muse, Aleksa's joy in creating new culinary experiences drives Viridian Catering's client-based approach and is an endless source of inspiration for our continually evolving menus.
Mary Salvo
Lead Event Coordinator
With a distinguished career spanning 33 years in the hospitality industry, Mary brings an unparalleled wealth of knowledge to the Viridian Catering leadership team. Having successfully executed hundreds of high-profile events, she possesses a master-level understanding of the logistics and nuances required to deliver a flawless guest experience.
Mary is dedicated to building lasting relationships through a process of close communication and proactive planning. Her "knack" for developing event strategies doesn't just meet a client's needs—it anticipates them, ensuring that every detail is accounted for long before the first guest arrives. Her clients consistently cite her dependability and calm, professional demeanor as the stabilizing force behind their most important celebrations. For those planning an estate dinner or a multi-day retreat, Mary is the dedicated advocate who ensures you can step away from the details and simply remain present in the moment.