by Christine Pesout

You’re charged with selecting the venue for your next corporate lunch, presentation or cocktail party, and, of course, you’re on a tight deadline. Where to turn? Somewhere you can rely on friendly service, exceptional food and trusted accommodation. Such is the reputation Kemoll’s has built over the years for its private dining as well as corporate services.

“We have tremendous repeat business,” explains Ellen Cusumano, director of sales and marketing. “People book events here because they can say, ‘I talk to the same people, I know what exceptional service and food and I will get, and I know they will make me happy.’”

A St. Louis tradition for 77 years, Kemoll’s is a fourth-generation family owned and operated business. Cusumano and her siblings grew up in the restaurant, each fulfilling various roles, from purchasing to training to sales. Her brother Mark now owns the restaurant and conducts the overall management, while her brother Doug is responsible for purchasing and general management. Originally located on Grand Boulevard, Kemoll’s relocated to the Metropolitan Square building in 1989.

Well known for its private dining, Kemoll’s has also become a favorite for business clients because of its versatility. It offers five private dining rooms in the restaurant for groups of 10 to 110. With screens available for rental, and four rooms that can be completely closed off and darkened, it is the ideal place for audiovisual presentations, says Cusumano. Table placement and room configurations are negotiable; for instance, reserving two of these rooms can fulfill a need for separate cocktail reception and dinner party accommodations.

For larger gatherings, and for that extra bit of novelty, companies may treat clients and employees to an event at the Top of the Met, located on the 42nd floor of the building. Complete with its own kitchen and staff, the venue offers magnificent views of the city as well as traditional Kemoll’s Italian and continental fare. Opened one year ago, the space was recently topped off with a finishing detail — white rope lighting to accentuate the elegant crown molding.

In addition to the view and impressive architectural features, the practicality of the space appeals to many businesses booking an event at the Top of the Met. “For evening events, we offer complimentary parking, and tons of it,” says Cusumano. “We know parking is a concern for any downtown event, and ours is enclosed, convenient and free.” The room accommodates up to 275 people, with a minimum of 150 guests on a Saturday night and more flexibility during the week.

Finally, for those clients who want to serve the taste of Kemoll’s in their workplace, the restaurant offers boxed lunches for groups of three to 300. They include a “well-dressed, hearty sandwich, pasta salad, and cake baked on the premises,” promises Cusumano. All menus are posted on Kemoll’s Web site for planning convenience.

With its range of options for corporate gatherings, from intimate negotiations to all-inclusive celebrations, Kemoll’s offers businesses the right venue and atmosphere for any event. It has attracted a loyal mix of private and business dining clientele, which Cusumano concludes is “a testimony to our personal service and outstanding food.”

BACK TO NETWORK HOME

From informal to extravagant, Kemoll’s offers a variety of services for any business gathering.

 

---

---