Alison Awerbuch

Creative Containers = Unique Presentations

Using creative containers for unique food presentations is something that really differentiates us and creates a lot of buzz at our events. When we create new menu items, we focus equally on presentation as well as taste…since we do “eat with our eyes.” Creating the visual goes beyond the actual ingredients on the plate and how they are used. In addition to taking into consideration color, height, texture, temperature and the shape of menu components, we also look to showcase dishes in unique ways based on the plate, vessel or container the food is being presented on. We often scour garden centers, office supply stores, hardware stores, fabric stores, houseware departments or anywhere one-of-a-kind items can be found.

In some instances we have created a new menu item based around one special found vessel, like our monochromatic pastel parfaits…we use colored glass tea candle holders in which the color of the holder matches the color of the dessert: orange = peach amaretti crisp, served warm with icy apricot sorbet; lavender = wild berry lavender ginger parfait; green = pistachio key lime coconut trifle; pink = raspberry crème fraiche shortcake.

But in most instances, once the menu item is developed we search for the perfect way to showcase it. Examples of this include our miso glazed scallop sates served in acrylic lipstick tube holders and our smoked salmon brunch pannini which is served shingled and standing up in Lucite CD holder, which creates great eye appeal as well as functionality since they are really easy for guests to pick up.


Think out of the box and use your creativity when developing signature menu items…

How about using test tubes to serve a special, infused cocktail, conch shells to serve summer seafood gazpacho, chopsticks or lemongrass to skewer chili coconut glazed pineapple or golf tees standing in wheatgrass to hold white chocolate “golf ball” truffles? The ideas are endless and your clients and guests will be wowed when you feature unexpected creative presentations.

PROFILE

Company Name: Abigail Kirsch Catering Relationships

Owners: Abigail & Robert Kirsch, Jim Kirsch, Alison Awerbuch

Type of Company: Catering, Special Events Management

Years in Business: 35

City/State: Corporate Offices Tarrytown, NY

Facility Description: NYC, Brooklyn and Bronx, NY; Tarrytown, NY
Six dedicated event venues and an Off-Premises Catering division located throughout the Greater New York Area. In addition, operates four cafés at its dedicated venues.

Full-time employees: 350+

Website: www.abigailkirsch.com

Awards & Recognition: Modern Bride Top 25 Wedding Trendsetters, Biz Bash Best New Venue Award, Zagat Rated “NYC “absolute best” caterer”, The Knot – Best of Weddings Award

Company Description: For over thirty years, Abigail Kirsch Catering Relationships has defined quality and service excellence in creating memorable catering experiences. Whether hosting a party in one of their exclusive venues or at an Off-Premises Location, Abigail Kirsch Catering Relationships brings together their unique combination of superior cuisine, professional service and comprehensive event management. Whether producing corporate events, weddings and social gatherings or fundraising gala benefits, the Abigail Kirsch team orchestrates every aspect of an event to assure a flawless celebration.