In more than two decades as caterer to the stars, Wendy Pashman has earned a reputation for food that’s equal parts pretty and palatable. Her high-end hospitality group, West Loop–based Entertaining Company, has cooked for the likes of Robert Redford, Hillary Clinton, and President Obama, and last fall launched a retail arm specializing in handpicked table toppers. “I travel a lot for inspiration,” says the 60-year-old New Jersey native. “It helps me buy things with a story, whether it’s where they’re from or how they’re made.” Her zest for narrative objects is on full display in the converted Lincoln Park grocery store she shares with her husband, Michael Patrizio. Here are some of her favorites.
Silk wrap
“I bought this at a Paris boutique years ago. No matter what I forgot to pack, I can throw it on and feel immediately dressed.”
Royal Copenhagen tureen
($975, royalcopenhagen.us)
“My favorite wedding gift. It makes even a humble stew look sublime.”
Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel
($54, strandbooks.com)
“Fashionista, editor, curator, inspirator, and the most fascinating boss I ever had.”
Alessi cheese grater
($100, alessi.com)
“I’m married to an Italian. We go through lots of cheese.”
Saint-Louis crystal champagne glass
($190 for similar, Kneen & Co., 399 W. Fullerton Pkwy.)
“This coupe makes even orange juice seem festive. I pull one out whenever I need a lift.”
Her grandmother’s opera glasses
“Afternoons at the opera with my Grandma Charlotte taught me to be a close observer.”
Serpui clutch
($230, Ikram, 15 E. Huron St.)
“It says ‘I’m going to have fun.’ ”
Belgian Shoes flats
($390, belgianshoes.com)
“Handmade by the same shop for 300 years. It feels like I’m wearing something magically crafted in another time and place.”