Grove and Pier 22, two sister restaurants celebrated for their culinary excellence, have left their mark on the world of event catering through the Pier 22 Catering Company over the past 45 years. Under the expert guidance of Kim Straw, the Director of Events and Catering, the company has become a leader in creating unforgettable, bespoke events. Kim’s passion for event planning, coupled with her dedication to client satisfaction, ensures that every event is meticulously planned and flawlessly executed, reflecting the client’s vision down to the finest detail.
Kim Straw brings years of experience and a keen eye for detail to every project she undertakes. Known for her ability to craft unique and personalized experiences, she has been instrumental in the growth and evolution of Grove / Pier 22’s catering services. Her approach is deeply rooted in her belief that every event should not only meet but exceed client expectations.
The versatility of Grove / Pier 22 Catering is evident in the range of options they offer. Clients can choose to host their events in the elegant private dining rooms or the expansive ballroom at Grove, or opt for catering at an offsite location of their choice. These flexible options make it possible to cater to various event types, from intimate family gatherings to large-scale weddings and corporate functions. The catering services include everything from custom menus and buffet-style dining to an extensive selection of hors d’oeuvres, chef-attended stations, and full bar service, all tailored to meet the specific needs and preferences of each client.
One of the standout features of Grove / Pier 22 Catering is their ability to accommodate a wide range of dietary restrictions and preferences. With a from-scratch kitchen, the culinary team can easily customize menus to suit gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, or culturally specific needs. This level of personalization is critical in today’s diverse dining landscape and ensures that every guest feels included and catered to, no matter their dietary requirements.
Since joining Pier 22 and Grove, Kim has played a pivotal role in expanding the company’s catering operations, which includes a state-of-the-art 11,000-square-foot kitchen capable of handling events of virtually any size in Lakewood Ranch at Grove. Whether it’s a small, intimate gathering or a large-scale celebration with thousands of guests, Grove / Pier 22 Catering has the resources and expertise to execute events flawlessly. Kim finds particular excitement in working with new clients, venues, and ideas, while also cherishing the opportunity to strengthen longstanding relationships within the community.
The event spaces at Grove are designed to offer flexibility and style, with room capacities that can accommodate everything from small private dinners to large ballroom events. The ballroom, which can host up to 300 guests, is equipped with advanced audio/visual systems and features a private entrance and restroom, providing an exclusive and comfortable experience for all attendees. Smaller rooms like Fever Tree Hall and the Live Oak Room offer a more intimate setting for gatherings of 40 to 50 guests.
The holiday season is an especially busy time for Grove / Pier 22 Catering, with Thanksgiving and Christmas events being among the most anticipated of the year. The venues are beautifully decorated, with the ballroom featuring two 12-foot Christmas trees and other festive adornments. These seasonal touches, combined with Kim’s dedication to creating seamless and enjoyable events, make the holiday celebrations at Grove and Pier 22 truly special.
Grove / Pier 22 Catering, under Kim Straw and Executive Chef Greg Campbell's leadership, offers more than just food and service; they provide an experience crafted with passion and precision. Whether hosting a corporate function, wedding, or family celebration, clients can trust that every detail will be handled with care, resulting in an event that is as unique and memorable as the people it’s designed for.
"Kim Straw ensures every event reflects the client’s vision down to the finest detail."