Fifty years and three generations

Seaview Caterers of the 5 Towns, Ltd.

Temple Beth El of Cedarhurst

46 Locust Avenue, Cedarhurst

(516) 295-3335

Founded by Paula and Jack Hockman in 1962, Seaview Caterers debuted at the Seaview Jewish Center in Canarsie. Thanks to their “family touch” and hands-on approach, the business thrived and grew. When it continued at the Manhattan Beach Jewish Center, Gayle and Robert Wilk, the Hockmans’ daughter and son-in-law, stepped in. Now the third generation, Traci and Russell Swerdloff, the Wilks’ daughter and son-in-law, have joined the firm as well.

Years of creativity, modernization and innovation, without compromising tradition or old world charm, have awarded them a fine reputation in the industry.  Since 1999, the home of Seaview Caterers has been Temple Beth El in Cedarhurst.  In April 2012, they will also become the Glatt Kosher caterers for the Inwood Country Club. All three families are active in the business. Jack Hockman, who is now 84, still comes into the office every day.

Seaview Caterers offers an exceptional culinary staff comprised of experts in international fare. Exquisite presentations can be found among the many cuisines they offer, including traditional Jewish, Russian, Italian, Middle Eastern and Pacific Rim. Among the staff are pasty chefs, sauciers and food artists. Foods and beverages are all under the strict rabbinical supervision of the Star-K. Meats are Glatt Kosher and there is a Mashgiach on premises at all times.

  The magnificent ballroom at Temple Beth El seats up to 470 people, with a Swarovski crystal chandelier overhead. Guests will dance on a 1,500-square foot dance floor, with a stage for live musicians.

  Since Gayle Wilk also owns Gala Event & Décor Artistry, and she can ease the planning and shopping of any event into a one-stop experience. Whether it’s a wedding, bar/bat mitzvah, fundraiser, shower, holiday party, product launching or another corporate event, festivities can be held at Temple Beth El or off premises at virtually any venue. Wilk has been planning events for nearly 30 years, her signature style being imaginative and fresh, yet warmly personal. Paying attention to every detail, she takes each client’s visions and personality and infuses them into every facet of the event.

  Dynamic themes like Timeless Romance, After Hours Chic, Black and White Glamour, or Playful Sophistication can be created beyond the imagination. Gayle and her team can help with invitations and other printing, favors and gifts, location scouting, lighting, custom furnishing, brand identity, tabletop and linens, floral design and more.

  Seaview Caterers and Gala Event & Decor Artistry will do their best to work within all budgets and means. Standards and tradition, they promise, will never be compromised.