Catch Hospitality Group – A Taste of Oakville
If you live in Oakville, you’ve likely visited one or more of Catch Hospitality Group’s five restaurants in the Bronte area, all located within walking distance of one another.
President Doug Greco was born and raised in the area and still resides just a few blocks away from the many establishments.
Greco fell into the industry at a young age, first as a dishwasher, then as restaurant operator for two decades. Despite overseeing the five restaurants and the catering company for the last two decades, he’s still “very hands on.” In fact, he creates menus and still hops on the line at any and all eateries if it’s busy.
If this sounds like a lot of work, it is, but Greco takes the pressure in stride.
“I don’t find the business as challenging as most think you should,” he says.
As the company expands, it’s important to “maintain your focus on hospitality,” he explains. Meeting and exceeding guest’s expectations and instilling the notion that “every customer could be the next great regular” remain top priorities.
Greco says that while some dynamics of the business have changed over the years, such as labour and rent, the fundamentals of the business remain the same – offering “great food, atmosphere, and service.”
Serving the community
Being such a large part of the Bronte community is also of importance to Greco. He holds an annual pay-what-you-want lunch with all proceeds going to The Salvation Army’s Oakville branch, and also actively supports the Darling Home for Kids. Plus, each summer, Catch Hospitality Group is a proud supporter of Oakville’s annual Canada Day celebration, providing catering, food vendors and beer tents to over 50,000 people.
Despite being so ingrained in the community and having such a warm, friendly and outgoing personality, don’t worry – Doug Greco has no interest in running for local office. His passion lies clearly in restaurants and hospitality.
Something for Everyone
Take a closer look at the diverse restaurants and catering branches under the CHG umbrella:
1. The Firehall Cool Bar Hot Grill – est. 2000
The neighbourhood staple for the last 17 years built their reputation on “great chicken wings and burgers,” Greco says, and continues to lead in “Best Wings in Oakville” competitions.
2. Cucci Modern Italian Cuisine – est. 2009
Greco says the food is made with “great Italian sensibilities and local ingredients.”
With a backdrop of white tablecloths, baby grand piano, award-winning wine lists, attentive service (“I put it against anyone in the industry,” he says), and innovative cuisine, it’s an impressive fine dining restaurant. Check out our FB page for more photos.
3. Plank Restobar – est. 2013
The inspiration for this restaurant was taken from Greco’s favourite city, Chicago.
The American tapas bar offers small plates and a long list of great bourbons.
The base of the bar is done with old red wine oak barrels. Reclaimed wood – much of which is salvaged by Greco himself – is used throughout the space.
4. Tavolo Pizza Pasta Wine – est. 2014
The casual Southern Italian restaurant offers pizza, pasta and wine for up to 230 guests in an award-winning space designed by Jump Branding & Design Inc.
The fun, relaxed environment makes it a must for families.
Pizzas are made with “really fresh ingredients” and cooked in pizza ovens from Italy.
5. Taste Marketeria – est. 2015
Enjoy a market, bistro, café and culinary academy all under one roof. There’s so much to see and do – visit the butchery, pick up fresh flowers and fresh daily made pasta and grab a meal in the open kitchen.
6. Catch Catering
Catch Catering offers world class catering for events. For weddings, corporate events and social gatherings, they draw from their group of expert chefs and event professionals to create the perfect restaurant experience in your own venue.
It doesn’t look like Greco’s slowing down either. “I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon,” he smiles.
It’s clear that despite almost two decades of Catch Hospitality Group, Doug Greco is just getting started.
Cool fact: Catch Hospitality Group’s six establishments makes it Bronte’s largest employer.
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Check out our Facebook page for a closer look at Cucci Modern Italian Cuisine.
https://www.yellowpages.ca/articles/catch-hospitality-group