In March, the two remaining D’Amico & Sons restaurants in the Twin Cities ceased operations.

The move stemmed from a mutual decision in late 2024 between founders Larry and Richard D’Amico and their 40-year business partner, Paul Smith. Smith sold the brothers his stake in the restaurants and acquired sole ownership of the catering side of the business. Smith says the outcome was “the perfect way to complete four decades of close partnership.”

D’Amico Catering was rebranded as D’Amico Hospitality about a year ago.

“‘Catering’ is a word that’s indicative of food,” says marketing director Christie Altendor, “but our company offers so much more than that.” D’Amico’s roots are in culinary arts, but the company is pivoting into a hospitality company for special events and celebrations.

As part of the shift, D’Amico is growing its partnerships with venues. D’Amico Catering was the exclusive hospitality partner to nine venues; as D’Amico Hospitality, that count is up to 12, with Machine Shop, Woodland Glasshaus at Bavaria Downs, and Mill District Event Spaces joining the list. The company generated 5% growth in revenue and 10% growth in operating income from the additions.

D’Amico Hospitality was also recognized this year as Caterer of the Year by the International Caterers Association, which Smith says is a first for a Minnesota company.

In 2025, D’Amico brought on two new chefs. The company is investing in new positions for what is already the largest leadership team in company history, Smith says. Catering menus also will expand. “Under Paul’s leadership, we had probably the most successful year that the company has had, in 2025,” Altendorf says. “We’re really excited to see that momentum continue.”