Philadelphia-based Brûlée Catering joins Rhubarb Hospitality Collection

US-based entertainment group Oak View Group has announced the merger of Rhubarb Hospitality Collection (RHC) and Philadelphian foodservice business Brûlée Catering.

The North American stadium operator reportedly acquired RHC for over £100m in 2023.

As part of the deal, the Brûlée Catering brand will be retired immediately, with all staff and clients joining the RHC portfolio.

London-based RHC has been trading for nearly 30 years and operates restaurants, bars and event spaces across London, New York and Berlin.

Its listed venues include the Historic Royal Palaces, the Royal Albert Hall and the Hamptons in the USA.

RHC entered the Philadelphia market in 2024 through exclusive partnerships with Ensemble Arts Philly, including the Kimmel Centre for the Performing Arts, Academy of Music and Miller Theatre.

The merger is expected to bolster Oak View Group’s luxury event offering in Philadelphia.

Ken Gaber, president of OVG Hospitality, said: “The unification of RHC and Brûlée creates an extraordinary hospitality business that blends decades of local expertise with RHC’s international reputation for excellence. We’re excited to introduce a fresh, premium approach to Philadelphia’s events, further strengthening our impact in this key market.”

Katie Harel, vice president of marketing at RHC, added: “By merging Brûlée’s heritage with RHC’s global vision, we are redefining luxury hospitality in Philadelphia – delivering world-class, tailor-made experiences that captivate and inspire.”

Oak View Group was founded by Tim Leiweke and Irving Azoff in 2015 and now offers venue development, management and hospitality services across four continents.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed.