ABOUT US

We are a full-service culinary company, providing high-end catering, private chef offerings, cooking classes, artesian craft bar services, corporate + production catering management for all Southern California.

Several pink cocktails in martini glasses labeled 'Grateful Catering' with a small red heart above the text.

A man in a blazer and blue shirt, sitting on a white table near a window, holds an award plaque with a sunset view of a harbor with boats in the background.

Emanuele Ponzo

FOUNDER & CEO

Born in Rome, Italy from a Sicilian father and Calabrese mother. His passion for a farm-to-table lifestyle cultivated at the age of three, at his grandparent’s farm where he would help his grandma with a homemade dish, while also being playful in the kitchen.

After a back injury, young Emanuele had to let go of his passion of playing soccer as a professional athlete and pursued his educational degree in Law and later focused on a successful career in Italy. After having met his lovely wife, Olga, they decided to move to the United States when they were about to have their first baby. The transition—although groundbreaking, was not as easy migration. Language barriers and the unfamiliarity of a new environment were some obstacles that Emanuele and his family have been able to overcome throughout the years. Through the hardship, he has gained various experiences and with extreme dedication and persistency, Emanuele was able to learn English, studied the market, and make strong business connections, to conceive Crateful Catering in 2015.

A smiling young woman in a black dress holding a tray with three glasses of champagne at night.

CRAFTING MEMORIES

VISION

We’re here to create dining experiences that are both unique and deeply thoughtful. As a family-oriented, multicultural, and creative team, our mission is simple: to bring you a memorable, tasteful, and truly stress-free event—no matter the scope or budget.

CUISINE

With just a few select ingredients, we can craft extraordinary dishes. Quality and simplicity go hand in hand, allowing our talented culinary team to add their personal, creative twist to each plate. By blending your event’s theme with culturally inspired flavors, we tell a story through each dish, creating a harmony between food, atmosphere, and ambiance.

PHILOSOPHY

We believe in being both elegant and authentic. Our events radiate a love for humanity that you can feel, with energy that’s both inviting and fun, design that’s exquisite, and a commitment to inclusivity. We embrace and celebrate racial, cultural, and gender diversity, fostering a sense of unity and community within our team and beyond. We also invest in our staff’s growth through regular training, ensuring a safe and supportive work environment.