{From left, Gregory Ziegenfuss, Richard Nix Jr., Rob Schaefer, Samantha Gillstrom and Maggie Barton}
Butler’s Pantry said “I do” to exclusive catering operations at popular wedding and event venue The Coronado Ballroom & Meeting Facility. Butler’s Pantry takes over the lease held since 2000 by Steven Becker Fine Dining.
“Our lease was up in 2014, and we were not interested in signing another long term lease,” said co-owner Steven Becker. “We were very happy to do a smooth transition with Butler’s Pantry. They are the best candidate to handle the high-end clientele we have for weddings and corporate galas.”
Butler’s Pantry owner Richard Nix said he was excited to work at such a well-established event space. “Ballrooms like this are few and far between,” he said. “Our intent was to transition (Becker’s) current business with tremendous respect. We made sure we understood what people are looking for and respect the history and grandeur of the building.”
Nix plans to increase event options such as linens, after-hours affairs and drink offerings. The menu will also undergo renovation and will be “dedicated to seasonal items offered at the right time of year.”
To complete the transition, Nix will update the color palette and remove the lobby cafe to make a continuous space large enough to accommodate expanded cocktail and event options. Nearly $300,000 will go into The Grand Lobby renovations. Other improvements include upgrading the audio and visual technology in the ballrooms. Nix hopes to complete the projects by early summer without upsetting current commitments.
To ensure continuity of service during menu changes and renovations, Coronado’s director of sales Rob Schaefer will stay on in the same role.
For his part, Becker will continue to run his two area Nadoz Bakery + Cafes and move into the consulting business, taking his 35 years of experience and working with companies looking to do catering and banquets.
-photo by Sara Ketterer
This article appears in February 2015.