Joe Monastero Jr., born and raised in the Chicagoland Area, thrives on his passion for the catering industry. Joe is the eldest and only son of Chicago Restaurateur Joseph Monastero Sr., co-founder and owner of Monastero’s Ristorante & Banquets.

At a very early age, Joe Monastero Jr. began his road through the restaurant and catering industry at Monastero’s, learning every aspect of the business. From bussing tables to being the dining room maitre’d while attending Loyola Academy College Prep, to banquet operations and sales while earning a double degree from Loyola University Chicago in Marketing and International Business, Joe has immersed himself in the industry. In 1999, he assumed the role of General Manager of Monastero’s. As General Manager, Joe has overseen the day-to-day operations of the restaurant, gaining extensive experience in operational procedures, menu development, sales, budgeting, and client relations.

After more than fifteen years of “doing it all”, Joe realized his true passion and talent for the business lay in the planning and preparation of private events. With the knowledge and operational experience learned from his father Joe Sr., and uncle, Monastero’s co-founder Salvy Monastero, in the areas of fine cuisine and management, combined with the invaluable experience learned from his mentor in the catering industry, Marlene Leone (former Director of Catering of The Ritz Carlton Chicago for 28 years), Joe launched JOSEPH S. MONASTERO PRIVATE EVENTS in the fall of 2005.

In addition to pursuing his passion for event planning, Joe also sits on the board of the Bel Canto Foundation for Young Opera Singers as Treasurer/Fundraiser and the board of the Catering Executives Club of America as Sergeant-at-Arms. To give back to the community, Joe has donated his time and services to local non-profit organizations and has lectured to the next generation of potential catering professionals at the University of Illinois Chicago and the Solomon Elementary School.