Founded by husband-and-wife team Ryan and Amanda Budd, Thyme Kitchen & Catering started with a simple goal: creating thoughtful food and memorable experiences that bring people together. Before opening their brick-and-mortar café in Merchantville, Thyme Kitchen & Catering was voted Best of Gloucester County Caterer in 2022, 2023, and 2024, building a loyal following throughout South Jersey for their chef-curated menus and personalized catering experiences.

Ryan is a graduate of the Academy of Culinary Arts with a concentration in pastry. Early in his career, he worked as a pastry chef for a premier wedding catering company, where he trained under friend and mentor La Tasha McCutchen, winner of Hell’s Kitchen. In addition to his catering background, Ryan also spent more than 10 years working at the United States Coast Guard base in Cape May, where he gained extensive experience in large-scale dining and food service operations. His background in pastry, catering, and high-volume kitchen execution helped shape the elevated yet approachable style Thyme is known for today.

Amanda leads the creative and community-focused side of the business, helping create the warm and welcoming atmosphere guests experience both in the café and at catered events. Together, Ryan and Amanda have built Thyme Kitchen & Catering around the idea that hospitality should feel personal. A major part of that philosophy is that either Ryan or Amanda is always present, whether at the restaurant or on site for catering events. Being hands-on in every aspect of the business allows them to personally connect with clients, maintain quality, and ensure every experience reflects the standards they have worked hard to build.

At its core, Thyme is truly a family business. Ryan and Amanda’s four young children occasionally make appearances around the café, especially on weekends or on days when one of them wants to “go to work with Dad.” Guests may spot them helping wipe tables, greeting customers at the register, or spending time with their parents behind the scenes. Creating a business their children can grow up around has always been an important part of the vision for Thyme, and that sense of family and community is reflected in the atmosphere they work hard to create every day.

Located at 177 S. Centre Street in Merchantville, Thyme Kitchen & Catering has become known for its chef-inspired breakfast and lunch menu, seasonal specialties, and full-service catering throughout South Jersey. From intimate private dinners and weddings to brunch service in the café, every detail is rooted in thoughtful food, genuine hospitality, and a true family-run approach.