MNR Catering – The Realization of a Lifelong Dream

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

“Love always wins. I want to spread it. I want to show people that God is working in my life.”

MNR Catering stands as a purveyor of luxury Caribbean culinary experiences, specializing in Jamaican and wider Caribbean cuisine. They differentiate themselves through an unwavering commitment to authenticity, using time-honored recipes and the freshest ingredients to create dishes that transport their clients to the heart of the islands. They cater to discerning palates seeking not just a meal, but an immersive cultural experience, offering bespoke menus and unparalleled service for: private events, corporate gatherings, and community celebrations.

On January 5^th, 2025, MNR Catering proudly celebrated six years of delivering authentic Caribbean flavours to Toronto and beyond. This milestone represents not just the growth of their business, but also the celebration of Caribbean culture and the communities that have supported them along the way.

MNR Catering is the realization of a lifelong dream for founder and head chef, Michelle Rochester. Growing up immersed in the vibrant culinary traditions of Jamaica, Michelle developed a deep passion for sharing the authentic flavours of her heritage. She envisioned a catering company that would not only showcase the richness and diversity of Caribbean cuisine, but also provide a platform to celebrate the culture and community that shaped her.

 “We want people to say, ” We HAVE to have MNR cater our event!”

Many entrepreneurs talk about a “defining moment,” a point where they realize, “This is it. This is really happening?” Michelle shares with the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper when that moment was for her.

“I started this business as a grief and coping mechanism. My grandfather died in a car accident. I didn’t grieve. It was very shocking for me. I met some family members at the funeral, and I invited them over for dinner. My grandfather died in September, and then I had them over for thanksgiving. They were so impressed, and they encouraged me to start something that would showcase my cooking. I had doubts of course. December is my grandfather’s birthday, and it was around this time that I said to myself, ‘This is it.’ It was a bittersweet anniversary, but from loss comes great things sometimes.”

The relationship that Michelle had with her grandfather was a special one, and for good reason. Her story left me speechless.

“When I wear my chef jacket, I feel so close to him. Who knew it would grow to this. I was in the system from the age of 13 to 21, and my grandparents found me. I went to church one day with my foster mom, and my grandmother was there, so that was how I was able to connect. They pulled some strings so that they could take me on the weekends. That was when my love for food grew.”

“I actually went to school to study law; cooking was a passion, something that connected me to my family. This business has forced me to grow.”

“The most challenging part was getting my store front, and balancing work. It became so overwhelming, I had to leave the firm because my business was crumbling. If I were to do it again, I wouldn’t do it this way. I would do a lot more research. Like I said, it was a challenge, but I finally opened my store front (​​462 Dawes Road, East York, Ontario) in May 2023.”

MNR Catering is are not just building a business; they are building a legacy with regular and full catering services:

Taste of Quality: Individual, single dinners. flavour, spices, authentic meals.

Beverly Nelson Bakery: Their specialty: spice buns. “We have been selling them for five years.”

Rochester’s Choice: Event Rental Service: Centerpieces, Floral, Ipad Photo Booth.

All You Can Eat Gala: They are now bringing the importance of taking care of mental health into this unique event. “It is not just about food; we are going to be talking about important topics. Our next one is September 27^th, 2025.”

Her advice to someone with a burning passion, but hesitant to take the leap into entrepreneurship, particularly in the food industry. “If you have a burning passion, follow your spirit. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Seek guidance from mentors in that industry. See your future self in that person.”