Some caterers serve food. Others create experiences. Then there's Pinch Food Design—a crew that turns every event into theater, every bite into a conversation starter, and every gathering into something guests will dissect for years to come.

The Art of Culinary Rebellion

"We have nothing against conventional catering, it's just not what we do." This isn't just a tagline—it's a manifesto. As top-tier NYC culinary veterans with extensive experience in event catering, they believe their clients deserve a taste of something new and unpredictable, an experience that leverages the best food with never-before-seen presentation.

Led by chef Bob Spiegel, Pinch Food Design was the first catering company to be featured in Food & Wine magazine, and they released their cookbook, Inspired Bites, with Abrams in 2014. But accolades tell only part of the story. What makes Pinch remarkable isn't just what they create—it's how they think about the entire experience.

The Theatrical Approach

Seriously not your average catering crew, Pinch brings a playful, almost theatrical vibe to party food presentation. Events hosted by Pinch are notable for their open chef's tables where guests can watch and taste the caterer's creations, interactive food stations, bite-sized buffets, and beautiful plating.

Their signature innovations include:

• P-shaped plates designed to rest atop cocktail glasses, allowing diners to use a fork while holding their drink
• Custom-designed utensils that combine multiple functions
• Interactive food stations that turn dining into participation
• Open chef's tables where preparation becomes performance

The Prestigious Client Portfolio

When institutions that shape culture need catering that matches their vision, they call Pinch. Their preferred partners include Museum of Modern Art, IAC, Metropolitan Pavilion, Skylight Group, Glass Houses, Center 548, Christie's, and the Foundry.

These aren't just venues—they're tastemakers. MoMA doesn't trust just anyone with their events. Christie's doesn't work with caterers who think small. When you're hosting in spaces where million-dollar art hangs on the walls, your food needs to be equally conversation-worthy.

Notable institutional relationships:

• Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) - Where contemporary art meets contemporary cuisine
• Christie's - The world's leading art business trusts Pinch for their most important gatherings
• IAC - Corporate events that need to match the innovation of their host
• Glass Houses - Architectural gems that demand equally stunning culinary presentation

The Goop Stamp of Approval

Goop has endorsed Pinch, which means something in the world of curated experiences. When Gwyneth Paltrow's team—notorious for their exacting standards—gives you their blessing, you're doing more than just catering. You're creating moments that fit into a lifestyle philosophy.

Beyond the Five Boroughs

While they typically frequent the 05 boroughs of New York City, they have been as far as Maine, Colorado + even India! This isn't just geographic reach—it's proof that great ideas travel. When someone wants the Pinch experience for their Colorado wedding or their event in Mumbai, they make it happen.

The Dietary Democracy

They are able to customize fully vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, nut-free + Kosher-style menus. Should you require Halal or Glatt Kosher meals, they would outsource to ensure perfection. This isn't about checking boxes—it's about making sure every guest feels considered.

The David Burke Endorsement

"Bob has the gift of taste, presentation, fun, and sophistication all wrapped up into one." -David Burke Coming from a James Beard Award-winning chef who revolutionized American cuisine, this isn't just praise—it's recognition from a peer who understands what it means to push boundaries.

The Pinch Philosophy

Pinch Food Design transforms every event into a curated culinary experience. They reimagine how to gather by creating food with intention and designing experiences your guests will never forget.

What makes Pinch distinctive:

• First catering company featured in Food & Wine magazine
• Published cookbook with Abrams
• Trusted by world-class institutions like MoMA and Christie's
• Theatrical presentation that turns dining into entertainment
• Custom-designed serving pieces that solve real problems
• Global reach with local expertise

The Bottom Line

When you hire Pinch, you're not just getting catering—you're getting co-conspirators in creating something memorable. They understand that the best events are the ones where food becomes part of the story, not just fuel for the conversation.

For Pinch Food Design's co-founder Bob Spiegel, provocation + whimsy are essential ingredients of the catering trade. In a world where most caterers play it safe, Pinch plays it smart—smart enough to know that the most memorable experiences come from taking calculated risks.

Located at 545 W 27th St in New York's Chelsea neighborhood, Pinch Food Design brings their unconventional approach to events throughout the city and beyond.

Learn more about them on their website.