"Ethnic" Restaurants that Cater

[Produce Addict]

I'm looking to feed 50-60 people with tasy food. I am concerned that "caterer" means expensive and often means mediocre or boring food (especially for cheaper caterers). So I was looking for any suggestions for restaurants, particularly in Northern manhattan, that are reasonable priced and offer pick up catering (ie just a platter of food to go). Types of food I am thinking about are pan-latino (peruvian or columbian especially), italian, or middle-eastern; southern food might work too. Probably not interested in Indian or Chinese or African food. My hope is to spend around $30/person (I can spend more if they provide delivery, plates, servers, alchol, etc, but the time of place I am thinking of likely won't).

Northern Jersey or lower Westchester recs appreciated too but please post them here
http://www.chowhound.com/topics/408315

[RGR]

Cascina, on 9th Av., b/t 45th & 46th Sts., serves very good Italian food, is moderately-priced, and does catering.

http://www.cascina.com

[Produce Addict]

Thanks. It looks like the only do catering in manhattan between 14th and 59th and their take out catering is only monday through friday. Menu looks great though!

[RGR]

Brio, on Lex & 61st St., caters. We had lunch there, albeit not recently, and the pastas were excellent.

http://store3.geomerx.com/brionyc/ind...

A quick check of Menupages for southern/soul restaurants in northern Manhattan that cater shows these: Amy Ruth's, Copelands, and Miss Mamie's Spoonbread.

[kobetobiko]

Paladar on Ludlow Street does catering (on and offsite). I have been there for their Latin American tapas and drinks and they were quite good (but I am no expert in Latin cuisine, so I am not the best judge). You can try and give them a call.

http://www.paladarrestaurant.com/