Santa Monica Catering Services

Santa Monica is where ocean views meet city sophistication — a place where celebrations feel both relaxed and elevated. At Crateful Catering, we capture that spirit by blending California’s freshest flavors with service that feels effortless, polished, and personal.

From beachfront weddings to rooftop receptions and private dinners overlooking the Pacific, our team brings thoughtful planning, imaginative menus, and seamless execution to every Santa Monica event. Since 2015, we’ve been creating experiences that are as memorable as the setting itself.

Santa Monica’s Culinary Experience, Redefined

Our catering goes far beyond simply preparing food. Every menu is designed to reflect the coastal lifestyle Santa Monica is known for — vibrant, seasonal, and full of flavor. Guided by Chef Emanuele Ponzo, Crateful combines Mediterranean roots with California creativity, resulting in dishes that are fresh, colorful, and unforgettable.

We specialize in:

  • Bespoke Menus inspired by the season and your vision.

  • Full Event Support with professional chefs, servers, bartenders, and event staff.

  • Private Chef Experiences for in-home dining or beachside celebrations.

  • Craft Cocktail Pairings featuring fresh herbs, fruits, and artisanal recipes.

  • Stylish Presentation that matches Santa Monica’s modern, coastal vibe.

Catering Services

Wedding Catering

There’s nothing quite like saying “I do” against the backdrop of a Pacific Ocean sunset. Our wedding catering captures that magic with menus and service tailored to your day. Whether you imagine a romantic beachfront ceremony, a sophisticated rooftop gathering, or a garden celebration, we deliver food and service that flow seamlessly from cocktail hour to last dance. Highlights include:

  • Fresh, farm-to-table menus designed around your theme.

  • Plated dinners, interactive food stations, or buffet service.

  • Specialty diets such as vegan, vegetarian, kosher, and gluten-free.

  • Partnerships with top Santa Monica venues and private estates.

Corporate Catering

With its mix of tech startups, creative agencies, and entertainment brands, Santa Monica is a city that thrives on innovation. Our corporate catering reflects that energy with bold flavors, flawless execution, and a touch of sophistication.

Perfect for:

  • Conferences, retreats, and executive meetings.

  • Product launches, premieres, and networking events.

  • Company celebrations, holiday parties, and team gatherings.

  • Fundraisers and nonprofit galas.

We help your team and clients feel appreciated while keeping your brand front and center.

Private Catering

Santa Monica is equally suited for intimate get-togethers and milestone celebrations. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or family reunion, Crateful brings restaurant-quality dining to your chosen space.

  • Private dinners on the beach or at home.

  • Cocktail parties and sunset receptions.

  • Bridal showers, baby showers, and graduations.

  • Exclusive in-home chef experiences.

Our goal is simple: make your guests feel special while you enjoy the moment.

Our Culinary Philosophy

Santa Monica inspires us to cook with freshness, color, and creativity. Every dish is crafted with:

  • Organic produce sourced from California farmers’ markets.

  • Sustainably sourced seafood and premium meats.

  • A fusion of Italian heritage and California innovation.

The result is food that looks beautiful, tastes extraordinary, and feels perfectly at home in Santa Monica’s vibrant, coastal setting.

Santa Monica Catering FAQ

  • Catering costs vary depending on guest count, menu selections, service style, and event length. A small private dinner might start around $100–$150 per guest, while large weddings or corporate events with full service, rentals, and bar packages may range from $175–$300+ per guest. Crateful provides customized proposals so you know exactly what’s included, from food and beverages to staffing and presentation.

  • Absolutely. Beach catering requires special coordination — from permits to sand-friendly equipment — but it’s one of our specialties. Whether it’s a sunset wedding, a yoga retreat brunch, or a corporate beach picnic, we bring full-service dining to the shoreline.

  • Definitely. Not every event is a big production — sometimes it’s about hosting a private dinner in your Santa Monica condo or entertaining guests at a beachfront home. Our private chef services are designed for intimate groups, so you can enjoy restaurant-quality dining without leaving your space.

  • Yes. For weddings and large events, we arrange tastings where you’ll meet our chef, sample dishes, and fine-tune your menu. For private dinners, we often create preview menus so you can select your preferred pairings before the event.

  • Because Santa Monica is a popular destination, weekends and summers book quickly. For weddings, 6–12 months in advance is ideal. For corporate or private events, 2–3 months is often enough — but last-minute bookings may be possible depending on the date.