Puff ’n Stuff Catering—one of Florida’s leading full-service catering and event companies—has expanded to Greater Miami. The company opened a commissary kitchen in Coral Gables and brought on veteran Miami Chef Dewey LoSasso to lead its South Florida culinary operations.
Puff ’n Stuff President Tracy Vessillo will discuss the company’s growth and operating strategy at the upcoming Florida Restaurant Show in Orlando in a session with CFE News Editor-in-Chief Sara Perez Webber.
Building on Its Central Florida Roots
Since establishing its Florida roots in Tampa and Orlando more than two decades ago, Puff ’n Stuff has grown into one of the state’s most established off-premise catering and events companies, with operations across multiple Florida markets. The company was named Orlando Magazine’s Best Caterer, earned six The Knot Best of Weddings awards and was inducted into The Knot Best of Weddings Hall of Fame. Puff ’n Stuff–helmed by owner and CEO Warren Dietel–is a member of Elite Catering + Event Professionals (ECEP).
At the heart of the Puff ’n Stuff experience is food and beverage designed to be part of the celebration. From luxury weddings and milestone celebrations to galas, corporate events, meetings and large-scale social functions, Puff ’n Stuff has built its reputation by pairing chef-driven menus with elevated design, polished service and the operational expertise to execute events at scale.
New Miami Kitchen and Culinary Leadership
The Miami expansion gives Puff ’n Stuff additional production capacity, culinary staff and equipment to serve events throughout South Florida while maintaining what the company describes as the high-touch approach of a boutique event partner.
“Miami is a natural next chapter for Puff ’n Stuff,” said Vessillo. “It’s a dynamic market with an incredible hospitality culture, a world-class events scene, and clients who value creativity and memorable experiences.”
LoSasso is a Culinary Institute of America-trained chef and member of Miami’s pioneering “Mango Gang”—chefs known for their use of tropical fruits and innovative Florida fusion cuisine. His career has included serving as personal chef to Donatella Versace and leading kitchens at restaurants including The Forge and Tuscan Steak in Miami Beach, and the Hudson Hotel in New York City. He also served as corporate executive chef at Miami’s Bill Hansen Catering.
“Miami has been an important part of my culinary journey,” LoSasso said. “There’s an incredible energy to events here. You have to deliver outstanding food, but you also have to create an unforgettable experience.”
Vessillo to Appear at Florida Restaurant Show
Puff ’n Stuff’s expansion will provide a timely backdrop for Vessillo’s appearance at the Florida Restaurant Show, taking place Oct. 25–27 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando. During “Scaling Hospitality: Lessons from One of Florida’s Largest Caterers,” CFE News’ Webber will sit down with Vessillo to discuss the company’s growth, operations, evolving menu and presentation trends, and how changing client expectations are reshaping the catering business. The session takes place on Oct. 25 at 12 pm.
