Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1531276
wbjournal.com | January 13, 2025 | Worcester Business Journal 15 Simply Delicious Catering S E R V I N G F A M I L I E S & B U S I N E S S E S w w w . s i m p l y d c a t e r i n g . c o m Unique Menu Items Quality Equipment, Service and Food Experienced Chefs and Professional Staff Transparency and Clear Communication A Passion for Food & Event Planning TIMELESS COMMITMENT TO CATERING EXCELLENCE Streamline your event planning experience C a l l ( 5 0 8 ) 8 3 9 - 1 9 1 1 o r S c a n t o B o o k Y o u r D a t e : & Events F O O D & D R I N K B E S T O F B U S I N E S S presentation, and personalized service. Peppers has taken steps to maintain sustainability and provide fresh ingredients grown in its own farm. In 2025, the business is working to advance partnerships, create more tailored unique experiences, and elevate event standards across the community. Website: www.peppersartfulevents. com Top executive: Owen Wiggins, owner Founded: 1987 Employees: 50 Editor's Note: Struck Catering in Worcester received the most votes in this category, but since Struck closed for good on Dec. 15, the award was given to the caterer with the second- most votes: Peppers Artful Events. n BEST AFTER-WORK BAR Winner: The Mercantile Rooftop Restaurant & Bar*, in Worcester Notable runners-up: Sonoma Restaurant, in Worcester; Quinn's Irish Pub, in Worcester; Breen's Cafe, in Worcester The Mercantile offers two floors of dining, including an outdoor rooftop seating area and two bars. Multiple TVs and a projector allow guests to watch sports or host business events. The Mercantile stays responsive to guest feedback and adapts its menu to reflect current trends and meet evolving tastes and preferences. Website: www. themercantileworcester.com Top executives: President Joey Arcari, CEO Stephen DeSousa, VP Business Development Renato Valentim Founded: 2004 Employees: 100 n BEST BREWERY Winner: Greater Good Imperial Brewing, in Worcester Notable runners-up: Tree House Brewing, in Charlton; Wormtown Brewery, in Worcester; Cold Harbor Brewing, in Westborough; Seven Saws Brewing, in Holden With its small and dedicated team of long-standing employees, Greater Good Imperial Brewing is committed to being a leader in high-alcohol, imperial-style beer. The brewery focuses on maintaining premium quality and highly-rated products, along with strong relationships with distribution partners, including Auburn-based Atlas Distributing, which Greater Good's leaders attribute to their success. Website: www.greatergoodimperials. com Top executives: J.T. Ethier, business director; Pat Fahey, operations director Founded: 2016 Employees: 25 n BEST MARIJUANA COMPANY Winner: Bud's Goods & Provisions, in Worcester Notable runners-up: Major Bloom, in Worcester; The Botanist, in Shrewsbury and Worcester Bud's Goods and Provisions works to deliver good quality accessible cannabis at an honest price. As the company expands into new markets, it aims to stay grounded in its mission of serving hard-working people in New England and keeping cannabis simple and true to its roots. Website: budsgoods.com Top executive: Alex Mazin, president and CEO Founded: 2020 Employees: 132 total; 22 based in Worcester n The Mercantile Rooftop Restaurant & Bar Bud's Goods & Provisions