Dine and Discover Queens: Katerine Rodríguez - Empire Catering

It’s “Dine and Discover Queens” time! “Dine and Discover Queens” is a monthly spotlight on some of the best food and drink options from around the borough! This month, we are featuring Katerine Rodríguez, co-founder of Empire Catering LLC—a company renowned for its exquisite, thoughtfully curated menu designed to deliver an exceptional culinary experience. Katerine founded the company alongside her husband Daniel Astudillo.To learn more, go to https://empirecateringnyc.com

What inspired the creation of your business, and how did you get your start?

Empire Catering was born out of a shared passion for cooking and a desire to create something meaningful for our family and community. We started from our home, then created Empire Shop after realizing how much customers loved our sandwiches, salads, and smoothies. Soon, they started placing catering orders for family and corporate gatherings, so we decided to offer different menu options based on each type of event. We began adding hot buffet-style dishes full of flavor and love, and eventually became a fully registered catering business in Queens—bringing our flavors for any occasion.

Can you share a memorable moment as a business owner in Queens?

One of our most meaningful experiences was participating in a local community event where we had the opportunity to serve families from the neighborhood. Watching both kids and adults light up at the sight of our colorful, creatively presented dishes was truly heartwarming. It reminded us why we love what we do — not just preparing delicious food, but turning it into an experience. For us, the presentation is just as important as the flavor, and we take pride in making our food part of the visual celebration.

What makes your restaurant unique?

At Empire Catering, we’re more than just a restaurant—we’re a family-run culinary experience rooted in passion, creativity, and community. What sets us apart is the heart we put into everything we do. From handcrafted breakfast platters to beautifully curated spreads for elegant events, every dish is made with intention and care. We don’t simply serve meals—we tell stories through food and presentation, making each event feel personal, thoughtful, and unforgettable. Our attention to detail, warm service, and deep connection to the local community are what truly make us unique. When you choose Empire, you’re not just getting catering—you’re welcoming a team that treats your celebration as if it were their own.