Crisp Catering
Our story
He is constantly developing new ideas, staying abreast of the latest trends, and ensuring that your event goes off without a hitch.
Joe has worked in a multitude of restaurant environments, including: fast food, deli, pizza, fine dining, oyster bar, quick service and bakery cafe. Prior to opening Gold Rush Grille, Joe was general manager and partner of the award-winning Ettore's Restaurant and European Bakery where he oversaw a multifaceted business that included a bakery, cafe, full service catering division, wholesale bakery, and wedding cake department.
Joe has made numerous television appearances on all the major cooking segments in Sacramento: KCRA, KOVR, KXTV and KMAX. Additionally, Joe has appeared on the Paul and Phil Show on KGBY radio and on the afternoon news on NewsTalk 1530 KFBK. He also has been sought out as a source for many publications such as The Sacramento Bee, Folsom Style Magazine, Sacramento Bride and Groom Magazine and CaterSource magazine. Additionally, because of Joe's easy-going-manner and culinary knowledge, he has been asked back year-after-year by the California State Fair for cooking demonstrations.
Under Joe's management, he has frequently overseen his restaurants' involvement in charity causes for some of Sacramento's most prestigious nonprofits, including Sacramento Children's Home, NPR radio, American Lung Association and Agency for Hearing. Joe is the past president of Eastern Little League.
Joe's education started with a certificate in Hospitality Management from the University of California, Irvine. He has expanded his education by being certified with the National Restaurant Association for Safe Food Handling Practices as well as Responsible Alcohol Service. Joe also graduated from the L.E.A.D. program established through the Alcohol Beverage Control Department of California. He has continued his catering education through CATERSOURCE UPDATE training classes in 1999-2004. These classes are attended by caterers from all over the country.
Joe and his wife Alison have two children, Joey and Autumn and a grandson named Bennett. The Thompson family makes their home in Sacramento.