Business Details
37 Years
experience
Your Trusted Catering Partner for Weddings & Events in San Diego
For over three decades, Rita's Catering has been a trusted provider of full-service catering solutions in San Diego County. Specializing in both authentic Mexican and contemporary American cuisine, we serve weddings, quinceaeras, corporate events, and private parties across El Cajon, La Mesa, Santee, and surrounding areas. Our commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures every dish meets the highest standards of flavor and presentation. Owner Rita Aguilar personally oversees kitchen operations and collaborates with clients to design customized menus that align with their vision and budget. As the exclusive caterer at the El Cajon Elks Lodge, we combine decades of experience with a passion for creating memorable culinary experiences. Our team of award-winning chefs and professional staff deliver seamless service, from initial consultation to event execution, ensuring stress-free planning and exceptional guest satisfaction.With a proven 4-step process for weddings and flexible catering formatsincluding buffet, family-style, and plated diningwe accommodate diverse event needs while maintaining affordability. Our reputation for reliability and gourmet-quality food has made us a preferred choice for thousands of local residents. Whether hosting an intimate gathering or a large-scale celebration, clients can rely on our expertise to transform their events into unforgettable occasions. Our dedication to personalized service and attention to detail sets us apart as a leader in the catering industry.
Services
Wedding Catering
Quinceaera Catering
Holiday Parties
Summer Picnics
Private Parties
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of experience in San Diego wedding and event catering.
- Owner Rita Aguilar personally supervises kitchen operations and client consultations.
- Our menus feature fresh, high-quality ingredients for authentic Mexican and American dishes.
- We are the exclusive caterer at the El Cajon Elks Lodge with flexible venue options.
- Our 4-step wedding planning process ensures customized solutions within your budget.
Services
Wedding Catering
Rita's Catering delivers tailored wedding reception solutions with gourmet Mexican and American cuisine. Our 4-step planning process ensures personalized menus, budget alignment, and seamless execution. With decades of experience catering hundreds of weddings, we handle logistics from venue setup to plated service, guaranteeing stress-free celebrations that reflect your unique vision.
Quinceaera Catering
We specialize in quinceaera events with authentic Mexican dishes and flexible service options. From buffet-style meals to full-service venue coordination, our team ensures memorable celebrations with customizable menus and professional execution. Clients can opt for food-only packages or comprehensive catering with rentals and staffing.
Holiday Parties
Our award-winning chefs create festive menus for Christmas, Thanksgiving, New Year's, and other holidays. Services include buffet setups, plated dinners, and full-service coordination for corporate or private gatherings. We handle food preparation, service, and cleanup, allowing hosts to enjoy stress-free holiday entertaining with gourmet-quality meals.
Summer Picnics
Rita's Catering provides casual and upscale picnic solutions for corporate events or private parties. Options range from rotisserie chicken buffets to premium beef tenderloin dishes, with full-service staffing and cleanup. We accommodate both backyard gatherings and large-scale summer events with customizable menu selections.
Private Parties
We cater intimate dinners and large private events with diverse menu options spanning five-course meals to casual barbecues. Our team offers 30+ hours of planning support, interactive food stations, and on-site management to ensure flawless execution. Services include venue coordination, rentals, and complete post-event cleanup.
People
Rita Aguilar
Owner
Rita Aguilar founded Rita's Catering in 1989 and oversees all kitchen operations. With decades of experience in the catering industry and ownership of a popular San Diego Mexican restaurant, she brings culinary expertise and personalized service to every event. Rita works directly with clients to design customized menus and ensure flawless event execution.
Questions
What types of events does Ritas Catering specialize in?
We specialize in weddings, quinceañeras, holiday parties, summer picnics, private parties, and corporate events across San Diego County.
How does Ritas Catering handle wedding planning?
Our 4-step process includes consultation, option presentation, proposal drafting, and menu tasting to create customized, budget-friendly weddings.
Can Ritas Catering accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, we offer customizable menus with options for vegetarian, gluten-free, and other dietary needs upon request.
Do you provide service staff for events?
Yes, we offer full-service staffing including servers, on-site managers, and cleanup for all catering formats.
Are there minimum guest requirements for catering?
No, we cater events of all sizes from intimate gatherings to large celebrations.
Can I schedule a menu tasting?
Yes, we encourage in-person tastings to finalize menu selections and event details.
