Get ready to meet the dynamic duo behind one of New Jersey’s top gourmet catering and event planning companies! As they gear up to celebrate 30 years in business—a truly incredible milestone in a time when small businesses are becoming less common—Joseph and Stephen can’t help but reflect on what’s made their journey so special. They feel grateful for the dedicated, hardworking, and talented people who have joined them over the years. This team is not just made up of employees; many are friends and family who have become like family to them.
Since its founding in 1995, Falco’s Catering has been delighting taste buds and creating unforgettable events, all thanks to the culinary magic of brothers Stephen and Joseph Falco.
It's rare to see a business partnership last this long, especially between brothers. Joseph and Stephen have certainly faced their fair share of disagreements and the usual ups and downs of running a business. But to them, Falco’s Catering is more than just a job; it’s a passion, and giving up has never crossed their minds. They understood that working together with the support of their family was the best way to thrive, and that bond is something they take to heart.
At the heart of their success is a shared belief in putting their clients first, a value that every member of their team embraces.
Their secret sauce? A philosophy that places customer happiness and satisfaction at the heart of everything they do. Join us as we dive into the delicious world of Falco’s Catering and discover what makes these brothers the premier choice for gourmet catering in the Garden State.
What inspired you to start a catering business?
Joseph, who is six years older than Stephen, always had a passion for cooking. When Stephen turned 14, he began working for Joseph as his dishwasher and prep cook, and the two quickly realized they enjoyed working together in the kitchen. Their bond grew stronger over the years, especially after Joseph graduated from the Culinary Institute of America. They seized the opportunity to open their own business, and thus, Falco Brothers was born. After several successful years running their a la carte restaurant, another opportunity arose at The Renaissance. This new venture inspired them to transition from the restaurant business to catering, allowing them to bring their culinary expertise to a wider audience.
Can you share the story behind the name of your company?
When it came to naming their company, Joseph and Stephen decided to honor their family and Italian roots. While they could have chosen a more elaborate name, they felt it was important to maintain a sense of heritage and familiarity. Their recognizable name reflects the deep family values and traditions that influence their work, serving as a tribute to their upbringing and culinary journey.
What’s the most unusual request you’ve received from a client?
Over the years, Joseph and Stephen have received some unique and memorable requests from clients. One standout moment was when a groom asked for a peanut butter and jelly sandwich as part of his wedding meal, and of course, they delivered. Another interesting request came from a Bat Mitzvah celebration, where the hosts wanted both a bacon bar and an oyster bar. These unconventional requests showcase the duo’s commitment to making their clients' visions come to life, no matter how unusual they may be.
How do you come up with new menu ideas?
New menu ideas are born from a mix of personal creativity, client requests, and contributions from their staff. When they feel certain dishes have been overdone, they innovate with fresh concepts. Clients often challenge them with unique requests, some of which become popular enough to add to the regular menu. Additionally, their staff is encouraged to propose new ideas, many of which are incorporated into their offerings. This collaborative approach ensures a dynamic and ever-evolving menu.
What’s your favorite dish to prepare and why?
Stephen’s favorite dish to prepare is his grandmother’s soup, a simple yet nostalgic blend of chicken thighs, chuck beef, and miniature meatballs. This dish evokes cherished memories of cooking with his grandmother during the winter and holds a special place in his heart. Joey, on the other hand, loves preparing Chicken Murphy. This classic dish, while straightforward, delivers a sophisticated result that can impress in both casual and refined settings. Its depth of flavor and elegant presentation make it a favorite among their guests.
Do you have any funny or memorable moments from an event you catered?
With 30 years in the business, Joseph and Stephen have countless memorable stories. One particularly unforgettable event involved a microburst storm at an outdoor wedding. The storm blew the entire tent into the water, toppling tables, ovens, and more. Miraculously, the wedding cake and alcohol were untouched. Rallying their resources, they called in favors from friends in the restaurant business to deliver food. Once the storm passed, the sun came out, and the couple resumed their celebration indoors, turning what could have been a disaster into a night to remember.
What’s the biggest event you’ve ever catered?
Joseph and Stephen have catered numerous large events over the years, including BBQs for 2,300 people at a hospital, galas, and weddings for up to 400 guests. One of their most significant annual events is a spring gathering for over 700 attendees. These large-scale events demonstrate their capability to handle high volumes while maintaining exceptional quality and service.
How do you handle last-minute changes or requests from clients?
Handling last-minute changes and requests is part of the job, and Joseph and Stephen approach them as coolly as possible. As full-service caterers, they are responsible not only for the food but also for ensuring that events are set up correctly and that all vendors fulfill their promises. Their professionalism and calm demeanor help manage these situations effectively, ensuring that the event runs smoothly despite any unforeseen changes.
What’s your secret to making a successful event?
The secret to their success lies in meticulous preparation and comprehensive checklists. From the initial client call to the final team meeting before an event, every detail is carefully planned and rechecked. Their expert sales team, experienced kitchen prep staff, and thorough truck-packing process all contribute to the seamless execution of events. This level of preparation helps alleviate last-minute requests and ensures a smooth, successful event every time.
What’s the most rewarding part of running a catering business?
The most rewarding part of their business is the feedback from clients. Whether it’s a kiss from a bride on her wedding day or a hug from a couple celebrating their 50th anniversary, these moments of gratitude and satisfaction are priceless. Their greatest testament is becoming lifelong caterers for clients, witnessing and contributing to all their significant milestones. This enduring relationship with clients is the true reward of their hard work and dedication.
Every week, the Falco brothers have the privilege of celebrating life's big moments with other families. Their love for what they do is constantly fueled by the heartfelt gratitude and warmth their clients show after each event. The hugs and kind words they receive are a daily reminder of why they do what they do, and they inspire the brothers to keep pushing forward.
"...their success lies in meticulous preparation and comprehensive checklists. From the initial client call to the final team meeting before an event, every detail is carefully planned and rechecked."
"Their greatest testament is becoming lifelong caterers for clients, witnessing and contributing to all their significant milestones."