The on-site catering department at the Highland Conference Center is operated by Pirogues Catering.

Jim Tipton is the Executive Chef. Jim's culinary excellence has grown in his 27 years of catering groups of 10-500. Jim's passion for flavor comes from his southern roots of growing up near New Orleans, Louisiana in the heart of Cajun Country.

Jim met his wife Dorothy while both serving as cooks in the Military. They have four children together and have been running catering businesses and restaurants together all of their life.  They relocated to South Dakota 17 years ago where Jim enjoys preparing Midwest Cuisine with a southern kick. They opened Pirogues Restaurant in downtown Mitchell in 2004 and later decided to dedicate their talents exclusively to catering.

Their middle son, Andy is the Assistant Chef and other sons; Josh and Jimmy both help out with catering when needed. Their daughter, Ashley is a Freshman at USD. Jim and Dorothy recently become grandparents for the first time. They welcomed their first grandchild, Torrence in October. They are excited for the arrival of their second grandchild in February. 

The Tipton's create original menus featuring only the highest quality ingredients. Everything is prepped fresh daily and prepared on-site. Your guests are sure to be delighted with their banquet meal when the Tipton's are in the kitchen.