“Thyme and Honey is more than just food and color to me,” says Cat Shapiro, “it’s about human interactions—the togetherness in which food brings all cultures and walks of life together. It’s the memories and feelings that a thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented dish can evoke.”
Thyme and Honey is a gourmet food company that specializes in catering and events. Creative charcuterie and cheese boards, nosh boxes, and in-home personal or private chef services compose their offerings. Headed by chef and owner Cat Shapiro, Thyme and Honey started in 2017 as a catering and meal-prep business serving Metro Detroit. “We specialize in a playful and colorful culinary experience. Our ingredients and dishes are health-conscious, made from scratch, and we strive to support Michigan farmers and makers,” says Cat.
No matter what a client requires, Thyme and Honey seeks to make their dreams come true. “Our mission is to always provide at least four things to our catered events—a delicious, colorful, wholesome, and gourmet experience, no matter your budget. Many of our events start with elaborate grazing tables offering everything from cured meats and artisan cheeses to small bites and shooters, along with custom menu creations for weddings and large corporate productions,” notes Cat. Thyme and Honey works extensively with their customers to bring their culinary vision to life and work their magic around the space. “We see food through rainbow-colored glasses, often receiving compliments that it is too beautiful to eat. But it never fails that once our food hits your plate, you’ll be back to the grazing table for seconds!”
Cat’s favorite selections depend on the season and type of event. “This summer I’ve been really obsessed with coming up with new salad creations from stone fruits such as peaches and plums or making the most of this incredible tomato season, taking a note from those rich colors to make savory dishes,” says Cat. “However,” she adds, “some of our most popular items will always be my favorites—mezze platters, chicken and waffles, or bagel and lox creations for brunch. The list goes on and on!”
“I have always been a chef, even back when I wasn’t certified as one,” muses Cat. “It’s in my heart.” Fascinated by cooking and spending time in kitchens, it was no surprise that she decided to take the leap toward becoming a professional. “About 10 years ago I decided to make my passion official and went to culinary school at Schoolcraft College, truthfully the best decision I could have made.” Since then, Cat has had the opportunity to work for chefs across Michigan, help launch notable restaurants and cafes, and develop recipes for national brands.
The future is exciting for Thyme and Honey as well. “We recently signed a lease on a storefront that will become our Café + Bodega in New Center in Detroit and are excited to bring new and enhanced offerings to the city and beyond this winter,” says Cat.
With Thyme and Honey, Cat hopes to show the next generation, including her children, that “food doesn’t have to be something that just nourishes you. It can create an everlasting impact and memory, even with the simplest ingredients.” Bringing a bit of beauty into the world sustains us, and Cat is proud to do her part.