People Taking Care of People

You’ve probably seen Alltown Fresh catering manager, Phil Corona, hustling during events. Whether executing the menu he created, setting up the space, providing direction, or making guests feel welcomed; hospitality is in Phil’s DNA. His vast and decorated background may have played a part in getting him prepared for this world of ‘hustle,’ which includes over 20 years of service serving some of the most prestigious clients in the world.

One of Phil’s most memorable clients and experiences was with former President Barack Obama. Background checks, NDAs, and security sweeps were now the new norm. Phil would be the one allowed in the room with the president while his team would be locked away in a room with the Secret Service. “I’m that guy. Moving around the room, taking care of the select few a part of this very intimate dinner.” Phil states invisibility is key. There are so many things that are said and heard but never leaked.

He reiterates the importance of being invisible when catering to Boston athletes. You hear who’s hurt, who is being traded, and of course, all the locker room talk. There is a level of trust that coincides with catering for high-profile clients and events, and you don’t want to break it. Your reputation is everything.

With that solid reputation of trust and anonymity, Phil also was let into the tight-knit world of musicians, which is always an unexpected adventure. “I remember one event where all of the hired waitresses were in flight attendant outfits wearing roller skates while hanging out with the singer-songwriter in the green room,” said Phil, “It just becomes normative.”

For Phil, his philosophy all comes down to getting the job done; no matter who the guest is. He prides himself on also giving the teams he works with everlasting and memorable experiences. “Those are the things that stand out to me. The fact that they had such a unique experience and still talk about it today.”

Interestingly enough, his transition to Alltown Fresh hasn’t changed between working with high-profile clients or having life-fulfilling experiences. In fact, Phil has expanded his array of events due to the unique clientele that Alltown Fresh serves. “That exposure and intimacy is priceless,” he said.