| About Encore Catering |
Welcome to Encore Catering, the revenue generating arm of the non-profit Community Culinary School of Charlotte (CCSC). CCSC provides a free culinary arts training and job assistance program for adults who have experienced barriers to employment. Whether that barrier is lack of training, incarceration, homelessness or substance abuse, CCSC students are eager to enter the food service industry and change their life experience. Encore’s mission is two-fold: to offer jobs and opportunities to our students and graduates, as well as to generate funds to help support CCSC. With the exception of the catering chef and manager, all of Encore’s staff are students and graduates of CCSC. Located at 2401 A Distribution Street in Charlotte’s historic SouthEnd, Encore and CCSC share their professional kitchen with Friendship Trays, Mecklenburg County’s largest meals on wheels program. The three programs work together to train and feed thousands of people throughout the community on a weekly basis.
Catering Chef Eric Johnston oversees the kitchen production as well as works with the manager and clients to plan menus. Eric has a degree from UNC-C as well as the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. He has worked in a variety of settings, including country clubs and restaurants, and was also the first night class instructor for CCSC. Encore’s catering services include delivery, set-up and service, when needed. Catering Manager Elise Barksdale and Chef Eric Johnston look forward to helping clients plan successful events. Whether you need continental or hot breakfasts, gourmet boxed lunches, cold or hot buffets, or party hors d’oeuvres, Encore can meet all of your catering needs. We currently serve non-profit gatherings, corporate meetings and events, local schools and churches as well as private parties. Our food is beautifully presented, people love it, and the price is competitive. Treat yourself to a delectable experience and give back to the community at the same time. Contact the professional staff at Encore Catering, 704-790-8646, or email us: elise@encorecatering.org. A subsidiary of the Community Culinary School of Charlotte |
Catering Manager Elise Barksdale works with clients as well as staff, coordinating and planning all catering events. Elise has worked in a number of non-profit settings, including education and the church community. She has also served on a wide variety of local community boards, equipping her with the understanding of the non-profit mission.