Press Releases

2024 Barrack's Hospitality annouces new event facility available for booking

Barrack’s Hospitality Group is delighted to announce that we have partnered with Olive & Oak Wedding and Events, previously Kickapoo Winery located at 6417 N Smith Rd , Edwards, IL to become a preferred caterer at this upcoming venue.

The venue has fantastic aspirations and a desire to offer the wedding and corporate events market something unique yet affordable and we are excited to be playing a major part in this.

Our partnership over the years with Michelle & Jerry Heeren, owners of the upscale wedding venue: Venue Chisca (located in the new warehouse district in Peoria) and her new venue has created much enthusiasm amongst the staff and our Event Coordinators, as we look forward to building a stronger relationship with the venue.

Barrack’s is thrilled to introduce an exciting range of innovative food concepts and menus for all types of budgets in a causal, but trendy location offering indoor and outdoor events.

Olive & Oak Wedding & Events is set to open in October 2024.

2024 Barrack's Hospitality receives proclamation from the Peoria County Board recognizing 90 years of excellence in the food service industry in Central Illinois.

Summary: On May 9th, Barrack's was invited to the Peoria county board meeting where the proclamation was presented to Jim & Lana Barrack for 90 years of excellence in the food service industry.

2019 Barrack's Receives the Journal Star Best of the Best Award for Caterer!

Summary: Barrack's was honored to have been voted in the category of Caterer as as "Best of the Best" for 2019. Over 20,000 votes were cast from online readers for this award.

Recipients will be honored at a banquet held at the Peoria Civic Center on October 10th. The top three vote recipients, in each category, were invited to the banquet.

The Journal Star 2019 Best of the Best Awards, previously known as the Reader's Choice Awards, are annually decided by the public and are awarded to businesses based on a variety of categories.
Thank you to all our patrons who voted for us and to our great staff for their hard work and commitment to serving our clients.

2019 BARRACK'S RECEIVES Viewers Choice Award for 'Best Caterer"

Barracks Hospitality Group recently received the 2019 Viewers Choice Award for "Best Caterer". The awards given are voted on by viewers of WEEK and HOI. Nearly 11,000 nominations were submitted and 20,000 votes after nominations for all Viewers Choice Awards.

In addition to their own banquet facility and full service catering in the Peoria Area, Barrack's frequently caters to other meeting and banquet facilities which include: East Port Banquet Center, Ravina on the Lakes, Stoney Creek Inn, Gateway Building, Packard Plaza, the Peoria Riverfront Museum. Venue Chisca, among many others. Barrack's annually caters approximately 1600 events yearly feeding over 150,000 people.

2017 OUTSTANDING SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD
The Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce announced the two winners of the Outstanding Small Business of the Year Awards at its Annual Meeting on November 16, 2017. Two local firms: Barrack's Hospitality Group (26-150 employees) and Hasselberg Grebe Snodgrass Urban & Wentworth (1-25 employees) were selected. Winning firms must be members of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce and demonstrate a track record of growth in sales and/or job creation, exhibit integrity and ethics in all business dealings and be involved in community activities supporting the Peoria area.

In addition to their banquet facility, Barrack's frequently caters to other meeting and banquet facilities which include: East Port Banquet Center, Ravina on the Lakes, Stoney Creek Inn, Riverfront Gateway Building, Packard Plaza, Trailside Event Center, and the Riverfront Museum. Barrack's annually caters approximately 1600 events feeding over 150,000 people.

2017: Barrack's Receives the WEEK Viewers Choice Award for "Best Caterer"
PEORIA, IL (October 2017) Barrack's was selected as winner of Viewers Choice Award for "Best Caterer" in the Catering category of the 2017 "Best of the Best" Awards. Votes were cast from online readers for this award and is sponsored by WEEK.

2017: Barrack's Receives the Journal Star 2017 Best of the Best Award!

PEORIA, IL (Thursday, May 11th) Summary: Barrack's was honored to have been selected "Best Caterer" in the Catering category of the 2017 Best of the Best Awards. Over 20,000 votes were cast from online readers for this award.

Peoria-area businesses were honored recently at a banquet held at the Par-A-Dice Hotel. The top three vote recipients, in each category, were invited to the banquet.

2016: Barrack's Selected as the Caterer for the Packard Plaza

PEORIA, IL (Thursday, August 29th) Summary: Barrack's is honored to have been selected as the caterer for the newly re-opened Packard Plaza, located at 211 NE Adams Street in Peoria. The facility is located next to the Mark Twain Hotel and is highlighted by a beautiful scenic view of the Illinois river. The Packard Plaza Ballroom can accommodate up to 350 guests and is available for weddings, banquets, conferences, meetings, and party type events. A first floor meeting room is available for groups up to 125.

2016: Barrack's Receives the Journal Star 2016 Best of the Best Award!

PEORIA, IL (Thursday, May 17th) Summary: Barrack's was honored to have been voted First Place for "Best Caterer" in the Catering category of the 2016 Best of the Best Awards. Over 20,000 votes were cast from online readers for this award.

Peoria-area businesses were honored recently at a banquet held at the Par-A-Dice Hotel. The top three vote recipients, in each category, were invited to the banquet.

The Journal Star 2016 Best of the Best Awards, previously known as the Reader's Choice Awards, are annually decided by the public and are awarded to businesses based on a variety of categories. 380 guests attended the ceremony.

Thank you to all our patrons who voted for us and to our great staff for their hard work and commitment to serving our clients.

2015: Peoria City Council Presents Barrack's Hospitality Group with Peoria Small Business Excellence Award!

PEORIA, IL (Tuesday, December 8th) Summary: Barrack's was honored to have been selected from the City of Peoria to receive the Peoria Small Business Excellence Award for 2015! James Barrack, President, and members of his staff received the award from Mayor Jim Ardis and Councilman Casey Johnson.

Congratulations to our entire Barrack's team for a job well done!

2013: COURTYARD ESTATES OF PEORIA Selects Barrack's Hospitality Group to provide meals for residents

PEORIA, IL (February 18, 2014) Summary: Barrack's Hospitality Group has been selected to provide foodservice for 100 residents at Courtyard Estates of Peoria. The facility builds a vital bridge of independence between living alone and on-site nursing care assistance. Residents enjoy a sense of peace and fulfillment while knowing they have access to the highest quality nursing care 24 hours a day as well as a wide range of other all inclusive services and amenities. Barrack's will provide lunch and dinner meals daily for the residents.

2013: Barrack's Hospitality Group Celebrates 80 Years Of Catering And Food Service To Central Illinois By The Barrack Family AWARD"

PEORIA, IL (February 18, 2013) - Barrack's Hospitality Group is celebrating its 80-year anniversary this year. The family business was started by current owner Jim Barrack's grandparents, Jim and Mary Barrack, at the Chillicothe Confectionary in 1933. From there, Jim and Mary opened their own restaurant in Peoria, operating a variety of eateries at different locations, but always in the business of bringing good quality food and personalized customer service to Central Illinois.

2011: BARRACK'S RECIPIENT OF "BUSINESS & INDUSTRY AWARD"

PEORIA, IL (February 3, 2011) - Barrack's Hospitality Group received the Heart of Illinois Hospitality Association's "Best in the Midwest" Business & Industry Award for 2010. The award was presented at the HOI Hospitality Association's annual Winterfest banquet on Monday, January 31, 2011. Over 300 guests were in attendance. This award recognizes a company who has demonstrated hospitality industry leadership and noteworthy achievement and has made a lasting contribution to the advancement of the industry.

2010: Barrack's Hospitality Group Makes INC Magazine's 'Top 5000 List' of Fastest Growing Private Companies for the Second Year in a Row.

Summary: Barrack's Cater Inn's 11 percent growth over the last four years earns it a ranking in the Inc. Magazine 2010 Inc. 500|5000 for the second year. Barrack's ranks 144th in the Food and Beverage listing, and 4756 th in the Revenue listing.

PEORIA, IL (September 9, 2010) - Barrack's Hospitality Group has announced that they are included on Inc. magazine's 500|5000 annual ranking for a second year in a row.

Inc. magazine announced its 28th annual Inc. 500|5000 ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in the United States. With over 27 million businesses registered in the United States, the Inc. 5000 list represents the top-tier businesses in America today. In 2010 Barrack's Hospitality Group was ranked at number 144 in the Inc. 5000 Food & Beverage category, number 4756 in the overall Inc. 5000 list. This compares with their 2009 rankings of number 104 in the Inc. Food & Beverage category, number 4314 in the overall Inc. 5000 list.

The 2010 Inc. 500|5000 is ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2006 through 2009. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by the first week of 2006, and therefore able to show four full calendar years of sales. Additionally, they have to be U.S.-based, privately held, for profit, and independent -- not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies. Barrack's growth in the 4-year period ending in December 2009 was 11 % as compared with 38.4% growth in the previous listing.

Jim Barrack, President/CEO of Barrack's Cater Inn commented on the Inc. 500|5000 ranking, "While our growth has slowed some compared to the 2009 ranking, the fact that we grew significantly in a time period that includes a recessionary year is outstanding. We are grateful to our customers and proud of our staff for their help in achieving this ranking!"

In 2009, Barrack's Cater Inn catered nearly 2000 events feeding over 150,000 people. The business employs approximately 50-55 full and part-time employees. The business boasts over 1500 company/organization patrons and countless individual patrons. Off-premise catering accounts for about 80% of the company's total sales. As a result of their tradition of fine food and personalized service, Barrack's Cater Inn has seen an amazing growth of over 1000% in the past 21 years.

About Barrack's

Barrack's Cater Inn has evolved over three catering generations beginning with a small confectionery in 1930, to the present full service caterer available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Barrack's Cater Inn Banquet Center and Catering is currently located at 1224 W. Pioneer Parkway. This facility accommodates up to 400 guests. Barrack's offers many facilities to meet your needs for corporate and social events including conferences, banquets, open houses, weddings, receptions, theme events, outdoor events, picnics, and other event needs.

In addition to the banquet facility Barrack's consistently caters to other meeting and banquet facilities, which include: EastPort Banquet Facility, Ravina on the Lakes, Stoney Creek Inn, Gateway Building, Five Points Washington, SpringHill Suites, The Cornerstone Building, and to clients home or business. Daily food operations also include St. Augustine and 2 Bradley Sororities.

In April 2010, Barrack's Hospitality Group of Peoria was honored to be chosen as the caterer for Sarah Palin's visit to Five Points in Washington,Illinois at a banquet for 460 guests.

In March, 2010, Barrack's was selected as one of five Midwest finalists for the national Achievement in Catering Excellence Award (ACE Award) which recognizes noteworthy achievement in the catering industry through culinary, business, community and professional development at the annual Catersource Catering Conference in LasVegas.

Awarded from the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce in 2002, for "Outstanding Small Business of the Year Award," Barrack's has demonstrated hospitality industry leadership. Noteworthy achievements also include but not limited to being featured in the national trade publication, CATERSOURCE, the same year.

2010: BARRACK'S HOSPITALITY GROUP CATERS FOR GOV. SARAH PALIN

PEORIA, IL (April 21, 2010) - Barrack's Hospitality Group of Peoria was honored to be chosen as the caterer, for Sarah Palin's visit to Five Points in Washington, IL, on April 17, 2010.

Governor Palin personally expressed her appreciation to our staff several times throughout the event. She also took a moment to pose for pictures with our staff and guests. James Barrack also had the honor of personally serving the Governor and guests seated at the head table.

The menu the banquet for 460 guests included:

Fresh strawberry spinach salad with poppy seed dressing and sliced almonds.
Filet mignon with mushroom bordelaise glaze.
Grilled garlic shrimp.
Tri-color roasted potatoes with garlic, lemon and rosemary.
Fresh blend of vegetables.
Fresh baked diamond rolls with butter rosettes and fresh parsley sprig.
Dessert trio garnished with edible flowers: vanilla bean mousse shot topped with fresh raspberry, milk-chocolate dipped strawberry with white chocolate drizzles, and lemonberry jazz dessert triangle.

A private VIP reception was held backstage for 42 distinguished guests.

2010: BARRACK'S HOSPITALITY GROUP FINALIST FOR NATIONAL AWARD

PEORIA, IL (March 17, 2010) - Barrack's Hospitality Group has announced that they were selected as one of five finalists for the national ACE Award for the Midwest Region. ACE stands for Achievement in Catering Excellence.

The annual Catersource ACE Award recognizes companies that have shown noteworthy achievement in the catering industry through culinary, business, community and professional development. Five winners are chosen each year to represent the best of the best in each of five geographic regions: Midwest, South, East, West and International. The finalists and award recipients were recognized in front of 4000 attendees at the annual Catersource Catering Conference, which was held in Las Vegas, March 7-11, 2010.2009: BARRACK'S HOSPITALITY GROUP HITS INC. MAGAZINE TOP 5000 LIST: 104TH IN FOOD AND BEVERAGE, NO. 4314 IN REVENUE
[inc 500]

PEORIA, IL (September 1, 2009) - Barrack's Hospitality Group has announced that they have received a ranking on the on Inc. Magazine's 500|5000 annual ranking.

Inc. magazine announced its 28th annual Inc. 500|5000 ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in the United States. With over 27 million businesses registered in the United States, the Inc. 5000 list represents the top-tier businesses in America today. Barrack's Hospitality Group reigned in at no.104 in the Inc. 500 Food & Beverage category, no. 4314 in the overall Inc. 5000 list.

The Inc. 500|5000 is ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2005 through 2008. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by the first week of 2005, and therefore able to show four full calendar years of sales. Additionally, they have to be U.S.-based, privately held, for profit, and independent -- not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies. Barrack's growth in the 4-year period was 38.4%.

About Barrack's

In 2008, Barrack's Cater Inn catered nearly 2000 events feeding over 150,000 people. The business employs approximately 50 full and part-time employees. The business boasts over 1500 company/organization patrons and countless individual patrons. Off premise catering accounts for over 70% of the company's total sales. As a result of their tradition of fine food and personalized service, Barrack's Cater Inn has seen an amazing growth of over 900% in the past 20 years; including a 10% increase this past year.

In addition to the banquet facility Barrack's consistently caters to other meeting and banquet facilities, which include: EastPort Banquet Facility, Ravina on the Lakes, Stoney Creek Inn, Gateway Building, East Peoria Event Center, Five Points Washington, SpringHill Suites, and to clients home or business. Daily food operations also include St. Augustine and Sigma Kappa Sorority.

2009: BARRACK'S CATER INN LEASES EASTPORT BANQUET CENTER FOR 3 MORE YEARS

PEORIA, IL (March 1, 2009) - Barrack's Cater Inn has announced that they have entered into an agreement to lease EastPort Banquet Center for an additional 3 years from Cullinan Real Estate Holdings, LLC. EastPort Banquet Center is located at 701 Mariners Way, East Peoria, IL. The facility, which is located at EastPort Marina, is highlighted by a beautiful scenic view of the Illinois river and the Peoria skyline.

The facility, which can accommodate up to 250 guests, is available for weddings, banquets, conferences, meetings, and party type events. A small private meeting room is available for groups up to 50. The facility consists of a banquet room with a bar and an outside multi-level deck. The outside deck is also available for wedding ceremonies.

2008: BARRACK'S CATER INN LEASES EASTPORT BANQUET CENTER

PEORIA, IL (March 11, 2008) - Barrack's Cater Inn has entered into an agreement to lease EastPort Banquet Center from Cullinan Real Estate Holdings, LLC. EastPort Banquet Center is located at 701 Mariners Way, East Peoria, IL. The facility, which is located at EastPort Marina, is highlighted by a beautiful scenic view of the Illinois river and the Peoria skyline.

2008: BARRACK'S CATER INN RECIPIENT OF "BUSINESS & INDUSTRY AWARD"

PEORIA, IL (January 23, 2008) - Barrack's Cater Inn received the Heart of Illinois Hospitality Association's "Best in the Midwest" Business & Industry Award for 2007. The award was presented at the HOI Hospitality Association's annual Winterfest banquet. Over 300 guests were in attendance. This award recognizes a company who has demonstrated hospitality industry leadership and noteworthy achievement and has make a lasting contribution to the advancement of the industry.

2007: BARRACK'S CATER INN RECIPIENT OF PEORIA JOURNAL STAR 2007 READERS' CHOICE AWARD

Peoria, IL (Nov. 5, 2007) - Barrack's Cater Inn has been chosen, yet another year for the Journal Star Readers' Choice Award. Eight years in row Barrack's has been recognized as the "Best Banquet Facility." Outside of Barrack's Cater Inn Banquet Center located on Pioneer Parkway, Barrack's provides quality food and service at several other locations including availability at your home or business.

This year Readers' Choice Award was presented to Barrack's for the Best Banquet Facility out of 76 other business categories. Journal Star Readers' Choice Award had 799 entries this year.

2007: BARRACK'S CATER INN RECEIVES "FIRST PLACE" AWARD

PEORIA, IL (March 30, 2007) Barrack's Cater Inn was the recipient of the "First Place Award" for their booth design at the Business Showcase Trade Fair on March 27th at the Peoria Civic Center. The Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce sponsors the trade fair. The show consisted of over 200 booths and was attended by more than 5,000 business professionals.

The booth featured an ice sculpture of a "Martini Ice Luge" set up in front of a twinkle light backdrop. Pomegranate raspberry juice was poured through the ice into miniature martini cups. The booth was decorated in red and lime green satin tablecloths with floral accents of Gerber daisies and mums. An appetizer of goat cheese tapenade served on clear Asian spoons was enjoyed by attendees.

2006: BARRACK'S CATER INN RECIPIENT OF PEORIA JOURNAL STAR 2006 READERS' CHOICE AWARD

Peoria, IL (November 2, 2006) - Barrack's Cater Inn has been chosen, yet another year for the Journal Star Readers' Choice Award. Seven years in row Barrack's has been recognized as the "Best Banquet Facility." Outside of Barrack's Cater Inn Banquet Center located on Pioneer Parkway, Barrack's provides quality food and service at several other locations including availability at your home or business.

This year Readers' Choice Award was presented to Barrack's for the Best Banquet Facility out of 84 other business categories. Journal Star Readers' Choice Award had 866 entries this year. Barrack's thanks all of its patrons and as always, welcomes new and returning guests.

2006: BARRACK'S CATER INN RECIPIENT OF "BUSINESS & INDUSTRY AWARD"

PEORIA, IL (February 3, 2006) - Barrack's Cater Inn received the Heart of Illinois Hospitality Association's "Best in the Midwest" Business & Industry Award for 2005. The award was presented at the HOI Hospitality Association's annual Winterfest banquet. Over 300 guests were in attendance. This award recognizes a company who has demonstrated hospitality industry leadership and noteworthy achievement and has make a lasting contribution to the advancement of the industry.

2005: BARRACK'S CATER INN RECIPIENT OF PEORIA JOURNAL STAR 2005 READERS' CHOICE AWARD

Peoria, IL (Nov. 5, 2005) - Barrack's Cater Inn has been chosen, yet another year for the Journal Star Readers' Choice Award. Six years in row Barrack's has been recognized as the "Best Banquet Facility." Outside of Barrack's Cater Inn Banquet Center located on Pioneer Parkway, Barrack's provides quality food and service at several other locations including availability at your home or business.

This year Readers' Choice Award was presented to Barrack's for the Best Banquet Facility out of 76 other business categories. Journal Star Readers' Choice Award had 799 entries this year. Barrack's thanks all of its patrons and as always, welcomes new and returning guests.

2005: RAMADA & CONFERENCE CENTER SELECTS BARRACK'S CATER INN AS PREFERRED CATERER

PEORIA, IL (September 8, 2005) - Ramada & Conference Center has selected Barrack's Cater Inn as their preferred caterer. Ramada offers more than 12,000 square feet of flexible meeting/banquet space in 8 meeting rooms, including their giant glass atrium. The spacious conference facilities can accommodate functions up to 1,400 people.

2005: "BEST OF SHOW" AWARD GIVEN TO BARRACK'S CATER INN

PEORIA, IL (March 24, 2005) – Barrack's Cater Inn was the recipient of the "Best of Show" award for their booth design at the 19th Annual Area Business Connection Trade Fair on March 23rd at the Peoria Civic Center. The Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce sponsors the trade fair. The show consisted of 211 booths and was attended by more than 5,000 business professionals.

The booth theme was Aphrodisiac Foods and featured a heart ice sculpture, rotating raised platforms on a buffet station with a variety of food items considered "aphrodisiacs". The featured item was a Belgium chocolate Dipping Fountain where attendees could dip items such as strawberries, pineapple chunks, grapes, and pretzels into the dark chocolate.

2005: CITY OF PEORIA SELECTS BARRACK'S CATER INN

PEORIA, IL (March 15, 2005) – The City of Peoria has selected Barrack's Cater Inn as one of three exclusive caterers for the Riverfront Gateway Building. Previously customers have had a choice of approximately 40 caterers & foodservice vendors to choose from. Barrack's Cater Inn was chosen for their experience and commitment to producing outstanding catered events.

The Gateway's Grand Ballroom seats up to 290 and is available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner rentals. This elegant room opens onto a full-length balcony that offers a breath-taking view of the Illinois River. The Gateway's 2nd floor meeting & banquet rooms seat up to 90 guests.

The Gateway Building is designed to allow for a variety of dining options whether simple or extravagant hors d-oeuvres and cocktails to a buffet or an elegant sit-down dinner. The Gateway building is equipped with state of the art audio-visual, telephone service w/ modem capabilities, a portable dance floor, bar, and podium.

About Barrack's

In 2004, Barrack's Cater Inn catered over 1950 events feeding nearly 131,000 people. The business employs approximately 35 full and part-time employees. The business boasts over 2200 company/organization patrons and countless individual patrons. Off premise catering accounts for 65% of the company's total sales. As a result of their tradition of fine food and personalized service, Barrack's has seen an amazing growth of 700% in the past 18 years.

Barrack's Cater Inn received the "2002 Outstanding Small Business of the Year Award" by the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce. In 2004, Barrack's was featured in a National trade magazine and was also selected for the 5th year in a row as a recipient of the Journal Star 2004 Readers' Choice Award for "Best Banquet Facility".

For more information on Barrack's Cater Inn visit www.caterinn.com

2004: BARRACK'S CATER INN RECIPIENT OF JOURNAL STAR 2004 READERS’ CHOICE AWARD

PEORIA, IL (November 2, 2004)- Barrack's Cater Inn has been selected for the 5th year in a row as a recipient of the Journal Star 2004 Readers’ Choice Award for “Best Banquet Facility”.

Barrack’s Cater Inn overwhelmingly received the most votes in its category. 1011 entries were received from Journal Star readers who selected the top central Illinois businesses in 107 categories. The top three in each category received recognition of the award.

In 2003, Barrack's Cater Inn catered over 1800 events feeding nearly 158,000 people. The business employs approximately 35 full and part-time employees. The business boasts over 2200 company/organization patrons and countless individual patrons. Off premise catering accounts for 65% of the company’s total sales. As a result of their tradition of fine food and personalized service, Barrack's Cater Inn has seen an amazing growth of 700% in the past 17 years.

Barrack's Cater Inn received the Outstanding Small Business of the Year Award” by the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce. In 2002, Barrack’s was a finalist for the Central Illinois Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award recognizing companies that maintain a solid commitment to conducting their business practices in an ethical fashion.

For more information on Barrack’s Cater Inn www.caterinn.com

2004: BARRACK'S CATER INN SELECTED AS EXCLUSIVE CATERER FOR RAVINA ON THE LAKES

PEORIA, IL (May 18, 2004) – Barrack's Cater Inn has been selected as the exclusive caterer for Ravina on the Lakes. Barrack’s Cater Inn, with over 40 years in catering experience, will provide food & beverage service for weddings, banquets, company picnics, meetings, and theme events. Ravina, in its 22nd year of service, is located at 5326 W. Charter Oak Road. They havenaturally beautiful 120-acre private park, with two lakes surrounding two modern banquet facilities.

The banquet facilities accommodate up to 600 guests and 4,000 including the entire park grounds. About Barrack’sBarrack's Cater Inn Banquet Center and Catering is located at 1224 W. Pioneer Parkway.

The facility accommodates up to 400 guests. Off premise catering is available anywhere in Central Illinois. Catering events include meetings, banquets, open houses, receptions, picnics and outdoor events, weddings, theme events, and other party type events. Food service is available 7 days week, 24 hours a day. Barrack’s Cater Inn is known for their exceptional food quality, presentation, and fine service.

Barrack’s Cater Inn was selected for the 4th year in a row as a recipient of the Journal Star 2003 Readers’ Choice Award for “Best Banquet Facility”. For more information on Ravina on the Lakes visit http://www.ravinaonthelakes.net/

2004: Barrack's Cater Inn was featured in the May issue of CATERSOURCE

May 28, 2004

[CATERSOURCE MAG]

Barrack's Cater Inn was featured in the May issue of CATERSOURCE, a national trade magazine for professional caterers. Over 25,000 copies are distributed to subscribers in the United States, Canada, London, & the Philippines.

The article highlighted a successful catering business in a smaller market, including sales volume, menus, types of catering, marketplace size, staffing, etc.

Barrack's Cater Inn Banquet Center and Catering is located at 1224 W. Pioneer Parkway. The facility accommodates up to 400 guests. Off-premise catering is available anywhere in Central Illinois. Catering events include meetings, banquets, open houses, receptions, picnics and outdoor events, weddings, theme events, and other party type events. Food service is available 7 days week, 24 hours a day. Barrack’s Cater Inn is known for their exceptional food quality, presentation, and fine service.

In 2003, Barrack's Cater Inn catered over 1800 events feeding nearly 158,000 people. The business employs approximately 35 full and part-time employees. The business boasts over 2200 company/organization patrons and countless individual patrons. Off-premise catering accounts for 65% of the company’s total sales. As a result of their tradition of fine food and personalized service, Barrack's Cater Inn has seen an amazing growth of 700% in the past 17 years.

Barrack’s Cater Inn received the “2002 Outstanding Small Business of the Year Award” by the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce. In 2002, Barrack’s was a finalist for the Central Illinois Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award recognizing companies that maintain a solid commitment to conducting their business practices in an ethical fashion. Barrack’s Cater Inn was selected for the 4th year in a row as a recipient of the Journal Star 2003 Readers’ Choice Award for “Best Banquet Facility”.

2003: BARRACK'S CATER INN RECIPIENT OF JOURNAL STAR 2003 READERS’ CHOICE AWARD

Barrack's Cater Inn has been selected for the 4th year in a row as a recipient of the Journal Star 2003 Readers’ Choice Award for “Best Banquet Facility.” Barrack’s Cater Inn overwhelmingly received the most votes in its category. Nearly 700 entries were received from Journal Star readers who selected the top central Illinois businesses in 107 categories. The top three in each category received recognition of the award.

In 2001, Barrack's Cater Inn catered 1803 events feeding nearly 125,000 people. The business employs approximately 35 full and part-time employees. The business boasts over 2200 company/organization patrons and countless individual patrons. Off premise catering accounts for 65% of the company’s total sales. As a result of their tradition of fine food and personalized service, Barrack's Cater Inn has seen an amazing growth of 700% in the past 15 years.

Barrack’s Cater Inn received the “2002 Outstanding Small Business of the Year Award”by the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce. Also, Barrack’s Cater Inn was a finalist for the 2002 Central Illinois Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award recognizing companies that maintain a solid commitment to conducting their business practices in an ethical fashion.

2003: “MAIN STREET DINNER THEATRE SELECTS BARRACKS CATER INN”

Barrack's Cater Inn has been selected by the Main Street Dinner Theatre in Farmington to cater dinner buffets for their weekly theatre shows. The two upcoming comedy shows include “Nunsense” from October 10th thru November 9th, and The Farndale Ladies Christmas Carol” from November 21st thru December 28th. Performances are Friday & Saturday a t 6:30 PM, and Sunday at 12:30 PM. For more information call 245-2300.

About Barrack’s

In 2002, Barrack's Cater Inn catered 1803 events feeding nearly 125,000 people. The business employs approximately 35 full and part-time employees. The business boasts over 2200 company/organization patrons and countless individual patrons. Off premise catering accounts for 65% of the company’s total sales. As a result of their tradition of fine food and personalized service, Barrack's Cater Inn has seen an amazing growth of 700% in the past 15 years.

2003: “BEST OF SHOW” AWARD GIVEN TO BARRACK'S CATER INN

Barrack's Cater Inn was the recipient of the “Best of Show” award for their booth design at the 17th Annual Area Business Connection Trade Fair on March 25 & 26th at the Peoria Civic Center. The Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce sponsors the trade fair. The show consisted of 221 booths and was attended by more than 5,000 business professionals.

Barrack’s Cater Inn theme “Cateritaville” (Margaritaville) consisted of a beach type shack bar, beach chairs, palm trees, sand & shells. Jimmy Buffet’s “Margaretville” & the Beach Boy’s “Kokomo” added extra ambiance. Barrack’s booth also offered non-alcoholic margaritas and their famous gourmet turtle brownies. The catering staff complemented the booth by wearing red & khaki colored shirts printed with lobsters and crabs.

2002: BARRACK'S CATER INN RECIPIENT OF “BUSINESS & INDUSTRY AWARD”

PEORIA, IL – Barrack's Cater Inn received the Heart of Illinois Hospitality Association’s “Best in the Midwest” Business & Industry Award for 2002. The award was presented at the HOI Hospitality Association’s annual Winterfest banquet. Over 400 guests were in attendance.

This award recognizes a company who has demonstrated hospitality industry leadership and noteworthy achievement and has make a lasting contribution to the advancement of the industry.

Barrack’s Cater Inn received the “2002 Outstanding Small Business of the Year Award” from the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerceat the chamber’s annual meeting on May 23, 2002.

Also, in 2002, Barrack’s Cater Inn was a finalist for the Central Illinois Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award recognizing companies that maintain a solid commitment to conducting their business practices in an ethical fashion.

In October 2002 Barrack’s was selected for the 3rd year in a row as a recipient of the Journal Star 2002 Readers’ Choice Award for Best Banquet Facility. Nearly 1000 entries were received from Journal Star readers who selected the top central Illinois businesses in 107 categories. The top three in each category received recognition of the award.

2002: BARRACK'S CATER INN RECIPIENT OF JOURNAL STAR 2002 READERS’ CHOICE AWARD

Barrack's Cater Inn was recently selected for the 3rd year in a row as a recipient of the Journal Star 2002 Readers’ Choice Award for “Best Banquet Facility”. Nearly 1000 entries were received from Journal Star readers who selected the top central Illinois businesses in 107 categories.

The top three in each category received recognition of the award. Barrack’s Cater Inn received the “2002 Outstanding Small Business of the Year Award” by the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce at the chamber’s annual meeting on May 23, 2002. Also, Barrack’s Cater Inn was a finalist for the 2002 Central Illinois Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award recognizing companies that maintain a solid commitment to conducting their business practices in an ethical fashion.

Barrack's Cater Inn Banquet Center and Catering is located at 1224 W. Pioneer Parkway. The facility accommodates up to 400 guests. Off premise catering is available anywhere in Central Illinois. Catering events include meetings, banquets, open houses, receptions, picnics and outdoor events, weddings, theme events, and other party type events. Food service is available 7 days week, 24 hours a day. Barrack’s Cater Inn is known for their exceptional food quality, presentation, and fine service. In 2001, Barrack's Cater Inn catered 1803 events feeding nearly 125,000 people. The business employs approximately 35 full and part-time employees. On April 18 & 19, 2002, Barrack’s Cater Inn served over 6500 meals at the “2002 Biennial Conference For Women”. The conference was held at the Assembly Hall on the campus of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, IL.

The business boasts over 2200 company/organization patrons and countless individual patrons. Off premise catering accounts for 65% of the company’s total sales. As a result of their tradition of fine food and personalized service, Barrack's Cater Inn has seen an amazing growth of 700% in the past 15 years.

2002: BARRACK'S CATER INN CELEBRATES 3 ANNIVERSARIES

James Barrack, President, Barrack’s Cater Inn, announced today that on Thursday, August 29, 2002, Barrack's Cater Inn will celebrate 70 years of foodservice, 40 years of catering and 15 years at their banquet center on Pioneer Parkway in Peoria.

The Anniversary Party is planned from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Over 2000 invitations have been sent to local dignitaries, business clients, and associates. Special guests include US Rep. Ray LaHood, State Rep. David Leitch, Mayor David Ransburg, State Sen. George Shadid, City Council Members, and former Mayor Jim Maloof.

Barrack’s Cater Inn received the “2002 Outstanding Small Business of the Year Award”

On May 23, 2002, Barrack’s Cater Inn received the “2002 Outstanding Small Business of the Year Award” by the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce at their annual meeting. Barrack's Cater Inn Banquet Center and Catering is located at 1224 W. Pioneer Parkway. The facility accommodates up to 400 guests.

Off premise catering is available anywhere in Central Illinois. Catering events include meetings, banquets, open houses, receptions, picnics and outdoor events, weddings, theme events, and other party type events. Food service is available 7 days week, 24 hours a day. Barrack’s Cater Inn is known for their exceptional food quality, presentation, and fine service.

In 2001, Barrack's Cater Inn catered 1803 events feeding nearly 125,000 people. The business employs approximately 35 full and part-time employees. On April 18 & 19, 2002, Barrack’s Cater Inn served over 6500 meals at the “2002 Biennial Conference For Women”. The conference was held at the Assembly Hall on the campus of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, IL.

2002 OUTSTANDING SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARDS

The Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce announced the two winners of the Outstanding Small Business of the Year Awards at the 91st Annual Meeting on May 23, 2002. Two local firms: Barrack's Cater Inn and MTCO Communications, were selected. Winning firms must be members of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce; employ 150 people or less; demonstrate a track record of growth in sales and/or job creation; exhibit integrity and ethics in all business dealings; cannot be a subsidiary or division of a larger company; and be involved in community activities supporting the Peoria area.

There are two employment levels that are recognized with this award: companies employing 25 or fewer people; and companies employing 26-150 people.

Barrack's Cater Inn is the winner in the '25 and fewer employees' category. Spanning three generations, the Barrack family food establishments have evolved from a small confectionery in 1933 at Abington & Perry to the present day Barrack's Cater Inn Banquet Center & Catering at 1224 W. Pioneer Parkway.

In addition to their banquet facility Barrack's frequently caters to other meeting and banquet facilities which include: Stoney Creek Inn, Riverfront Gateway Building, AmeriSuites, and Sunset Hills Golf Club. In 2001, Barrack's Cater Inn catered 1803 events feeding nearly 125,000 people. As a result of their tradition of fine food and personalized service, Barrack's Cater Inn has seen an amazing growth of 700% in the past 15 years. Barrack's Cater Inn meeting and banquet facility provide accomodations for up to 350 guests, audio/visual equipment, DSL and modem capabilities, buffet or sit down service, room size flexibility and ample free parking.

James Barrack, President and C.E.O. of Barrack's Cater Inn, attributes the success of the business to maintaining the Barrack family tradition of excellence for serving fine food, offering persona