Business Details
23 Years
experience
Award-Winning Catering & Event Services in Bluffton, SC
For over two decades, Downtown Catering Company has specialized in creating unforgettable culinary experiences that bring people together. Founded in 2003 as a local deli, our passion for hospitality evolved into a full-service catering and event planning business rooted in the Lowcountry. Our approach combines 20+ years of industry expertise with personalized service, ensuring every celebration reflects the client's unique vision. We source the freshest local ingredients to craft menus that balance tradition with innovation, from intimate gatherings to large-scale corporate events. Our team of seasoned professionals treats every client like family, offering seamless coordination from initial consultation to final execution. With Venue 1223, we've created a turn-key event space designed to elevate celebrations with modern amenities and southern charm.Our commitment to excellence has earned recognition from clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to local families, all united by their appreciation for exceptional food and service. We pride ourselves on anticipating every detail, from dietary accommodations to timeline management, allowing clients to fully enjoy their events. Our collaborative process begins with understanding client preferences and culminates in flawlessly executed celebrations that exceed expectations. This dedication to personalized service, culinary creativity, and operational excellence continues to make us a trusted choice for discerning clients across the Southeast.
Services
Catering Services
Event Planning
Venue Rental
Custom Menus
Deli Services
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of hospitality experience with personalized service
- Our team creates custom menus tailored to your specific vision
- Award-winning catering recognized for culinary excellence and service
- Venue 1223 provides a complete turn-key event experience
- We source fresh, local ingredients for exceptional flavor and quality
What people say
Delicious food
Professional staff
Stunning venue
Seamless planning
Exceptional service
Services
Full-Service Catering
Our full-service catering creates memorable culinary experiences for weddings and corporate events. With 20+ years of expertise, we offer customizable menus featuring locally sourced ingredients. Our team handles everything from menu design to on-site execution, ensuring exceptional presentation and flavor that exceeds expectations.
Venue Rental
Venue 1223 provides a sophisticated turn-key location for celebrations. This modern space combines southern charm with contemporary amenities, including climate-controlled interiors, outdoor courtyards, and all necessary event rentals. Our dedicated staff ensures seamless execution of your event from setup to conclusion.
Custom Menu Design
We create personalized menus tailored to your event's vision and dietary needs. Our culinary team collaborates with clients through tasting sessions, offering flexible planning up to 60 days before events. From traditional Lowcountry fare to innovative fusion dishes, we ensure every meal reflects your unique preferences.
Event Coordination
Our professional coordination service manages every detail from initial planning to event day execution. We provide timeline development, vendor recommendations, and on-site management to reduce stress and ensure smooth operations for your special occasion.
Deli Services
Our deli offers gourmet to-go options and smaller catering solutions. Featuring fresh, house-made ingredients and creative twists on classic dishes, this service extends our culinary expertise to casual dining and smaller events while maintaining the same quality standards as our full-service catering.
People
Ryan McCarthy
Executive Chef
With over 25 years of culinary experience, Ryan leads our kitchen operations. His expertise in Lowcountry cuisine and commitment to quality ingredients form the foundation of our exceptional catering services.
Leah McCarthy
Event Director
As co-founder and event specialist, Leah brings 20+ years of hospitality experience. Her attention to detail and client-focused approach ensure every event exceeds expectations while maintaining seamless operations.
Kristin
Catering & Wedding Specialist
Kristin specializes in wedding coordination with a focus on personalized service. Her organizational skills and industry knowledge help clients navigate the planning process with confidence and ease.
Olivia
Managing Director
Olivia oversees daily operations with a commitment to excellence. Her leadership ensures consistent quality across all services while maintaining the company's core values of hospitality and community engagement.
Brandi
Deli Manager
As deli manager, Brandi maintains the high standards of our to-go services. Her expertise in food preparation and customer service extends our catering excellence to casual dining options.
Questions
What areas do you serve for catering events?
We serve Bluffton, Hilton Head Island, Savannah, and Augusta with full-service catering and event planning capabilities across the Southeast region.
Can you accommodate special dietary requirements?
Yes, our culinary team creates customized menus to meet all dietary needs including vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options while maintaining exceptional flavor.
What is included with Venue 1223 rental?
Venue rental includes climate-controlled space, outdoor courtyard access, tables, chairs, linens, lighting, sound system, and dedicated staff for your event duration.
How far in advance should I book catering services?
We recommend booking 6-12 months in advance for weddings, with corporate events requiring at least 3 months' notice for optimal planning flexibility.
Do you offer menu tasting sessions?
Yes, we provide tasting sessions for up to four guests to sample menu options and finalize selections 60 days before your event date.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit cards and electronic transfers with flexible payment plans available for large events to accommodate budgetary considerations.
Reviews (4)
Lorenzo Padron
Dec 09, 2021
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Went for a wedding reception and it was ok. The food was not very good though. They kept the AC too hot as well.
Pam Cornforth
Apr 10, 2021
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We had my son's wedding rehearsal dinner at Venue 1223. It was the perfect place and Leah was so incredibly easy to work with. It's very nice and has an outside area with string lights where tables can be placed and games can be played. I couldn't have been better pleased with the delicious meal and now know why it's rated so highly. I DEFINITELY would use it again and I highly recommend this venue! Pam Cornforth
Kate Engler
Dec 26, 2019
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We had DTC cater a big family anniversary dinner. Ryan was awesome! He came to our beach house & brought everything with him, set up and prepared an amazing LowCountry Boil! So friendly & professional. The food was amazing! I would highly recommend Downtown Catering! They are the best!
Lisa Sulka
Nov 03, 2019
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I have had many experiences at Venue 1223 and the catering side to make a credible review. Both at the Venue and outside to other locations, when Downtown Catering was part of it, the food, service and overall experience was A+. Most recently I used them for my daughters wedding. They went above and beyond, starting with a sit down to go over what they expected and most importantly wanted to know what I expected.
The communication was on point, and using Maren as the wedding planner made everything go smoothly. I would recommend not only the catering side, but also consider the actual Venue 1223 as it is magical once everything is set up.
The communication was on point, and using Maren as the wedding planner made everything go smoothly. I would recommend not only the catering side, but also consider the actual Venue 1223 as it is magical once everything is set up.
