Outpost Spotlight

The Gulf Coast Outpost business recognition program is part of the 2016 Nature-Based Tourism Plan for Coastal Mississippi. It was developed for the Heritage Area by stakeholders in the industry. Business owners and operators are recognized through a checklist that focuses on training, sustainability and stewardship. The program is aimed at those companies whose primary business is dependent on the natural environment in Mississippi’s six coastal counties. This includes businesses such as eco-tourism companies, locally owned outfitters, charter boat operators, tour guides, eco-lodges and agritourism entities.

Words by Andrew Barrett

In this addition of the Gulf Coast Outpost (GCO) Business Spotlight, we are featuring a business out of Ocean Springs, Miss., called Food, Booze & Hiccups. With such a unique name, it should be expected that the owners, too, have a unique mindset and innovative approach to their business model. Owners Stephanie and Michael Paoletti do in fact bring a sort of unparalleled modus operandi to their ever-evolving line of businesses in the culinary arts and under the Food, Booze & Hiccups banner, a multitude of dining adventures awaits.

Although they offer catering services for almost any occasion, to say Food, Booze & Hiccups is simply a catering company would be an injustice to the Paolettis’ creative venture and culinary passions. What makes their company so extraordinary is the pure number of inventive options in both locale and in-menu items.

One popular option for dining is their outdoor pop-up restaurant called “The Lot.” Situated in downtown Ocean Springs at 1401 Government Street, The Lot is ideal for executing an exquisite menu in a laid-back, picturesque atmosphere. Food, Booze & Hiccups incorporates both locally sourced and exotic ingredients and serves on some beautiful, locally crafted pottery by Gulf Coast artists. Think of it as fine dining that’s a little UN-refined. Guests can select a date and book their own private party or select one of their themed events.

Another ingenious alternative is their “Belly Up Beach Chairs” experience for dining on the beach. Food, Booze & Hiccups will arrange the beach chairs, queue up the music, set up a charcuterie and even provide the bonfire. All you have to do is show up, relax and enjoy some of the best views along the coast. They even pull all the permits. This service comes with options for menu items, and they have recently added a “Brunch on the Beach” for those looking for a daytime outing.

In addition to the previously mentioned options, Food, Booze & Hiccups will travel to your chosen location. Whether it’s a private dinner at your home, a huge wedding or a fun and funky birthday party, Food, Booze & Hiccups can provide a catering experience for your gathering that will leave a lasting impression on you and your guest.

For those of us with a sweet tooth, Food, Booze & Hiccups has a brick-and-mortar location in Ocean Springs called Sweet Enchantments. Located at 1056 Thorn Avenue, Sweet Enchantments is a scratch bakery that specializes in occasion cakes, macarons, cookies, confections, ice cream, allergen-free products and even grab-and-go breakfast and lunch. Future plans for a Butcher Baker shop in a European tradition are in the works and, coming soon, meats cut from whole animals, cured meats and cheeses will all be available under the Food, Booze & Hiccups offerings.

If all that isn’t enough for you, Food, Booze & Hiccups can even provide cooking classes in a one-on-one setting at their Sweet Enchantments locations or at a venue of your choice. So, if you are in the market for a unique dining experience, in need of a first-rate caterer or simply want to learn a few culinary cues from the very best, Stephanie and Michael Paoletti at Food, Booze & Hiccups can definitely deliver. To learn more about their many offerings, visit fbhos.com/, the Sweet Enchantments Facebook page at facebook.com/ SweetEnchantmentsCakes/ or call 228-382-0970 or 601-299-3152.