In the heart of Cummings Research Park, the Jackson Center isn’t just another meeting and event venue—it’s a place where premium hospitality, world-class culinary artistry, and exemplary service come together to create unforgettable experiences.

For more than a decade, Daniel LaBoudiere has been the driving force behind the Jackson Center’s reputation for excellence. Originally hired as Director, Daniel quickly found himself back in the kitchen when the Center’s chef departed six months into his tenure. With a deep background in culinary arts and high-end hospitality, LaBoudiere stepped into the kitchen without hesitation and never left.

“I spend 90% of my time in the kitchen,” LaBoudiere said. “The heart of this business is the food. We cook from scratch, by taste, with no recipes—because every event deserves something unique.”

For LaBoudiere, the challenge is part of the reward. If a dish isn’t difficult to execute, it’s not worth doing. He thrives on the complexity, knowing that with so many things that could go wrong, the moment everything comes together offers instant gratification—like climbing Mount Everest every day.

While he could easily remain in a purely director role and hire a chef, LaBoudiere knows he would lose the hands-on control that ensures every plate meets his exacting standards. For him, stepping back risks falling into routine, producing food that’s ordinary rather than distinctive and unique.

A Unique Culinary Philosophy

At the Jackson Center, sauces can take up to eight hours to perfect. Chicken Piccata is made from the pan scrapings moments before serving. Steaks arrive perfectly medium-rare—not held in a hot box for hours. Every plate is touched, checked, and plated with precision.

“We plate to serve,” LaBoudiere explained. “Nothing here sits in a warmer. That’s why our food tastes fresh—and why this is as close to a restaurant experience as you’ll get in a banquet facility.”

Even the presentation is part of the experience. Desserts and salads are artfully plated in advance, garnished, and displayed so guests are impressed before the first bite. Fresh flowers on the tables aren’t a special add-on—they’re simply part of how the Jackson Center does business.

A Convenient Location

The Jackson Center’s central location in Research Park is a major advantage for busy professionals, offering easy access from anywhere in the city. Guests enjoy abundant free parking and the convenience of three exit routes, making it simple to avoid congestion and get back to the office quickly after an event.

“When people come for a monthly luncheon or breakfast, they don’t want to waste time in traffic,” LaBoudiere said. “Here, they can be in and out and back to work.”

Hospitality That Feels Like Family

LaBoudiere’s leadership style is rooted in respect for every role in the operation because he’s worked them all, from dishwasher to general manager. The Jackson Center team has remained remarkably consistent over the years, with much of the team working together for many years and falling effortlessly in sync.

This stability means clients see the same faces at every event, served by people who know them by name. “Eighty-five percent of our business is repeat,” LaBoudiere said. “When you work with us, it’s like working with family.”

That philosophy extends beyond clients. Leftover food is never wasted—it’s given to staff to take home or donated to Manna House, a local nonprofit serving those in need.

Why the Jackson Center Stands Out

The Jackson Center is Huntsville’s premier event venue, offering seating for up to 560 guests for plated dinners or buffets, paired with elegant European-style service led by captains at the front of the room. Every menu is custom-created to match your event’s theme, preferences, or occasion, ensuring a personal touch that guests will remember. All cuisine is prepared from scratch—never mass-produced or held in a hot box—so every plate arrives fresh and flavorful. Behind it all is a professional, tight-knit team dedicated to making your event a memorable success.

Whether you’re hosting a high-level board meeting, a monthly luncheon, a multi-day conference, or a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, the Jackson Center offers more than a venue. It delivers a carefully curated experience that leaves guests feeling welcomed and valued, and coming back for more.

“Our goal isn’t to give you the best meal you’ve ever had,” LaBoudiere said. “It’s to make sure you walk out feeling good—because you’ve enjoyed great food, great service, and a great atmosphere. That’s what we strive for every day.”