Business Details
26 Years
experience
Your Trusted Catering Partner in Central Coast
Since 2000, Trumpet Vine Catering has been dedicated to redefining the art of catering through exceptional culinary experiences. Our foundation lies in using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to craft menus that reflect each client's unique vision. With a team of classically trained chefs and seasoned event professionals, we specialize in creating unforgettable dining experiences for weddings, corporate events, and private gatherings. Our commitment to excellence is evident in every detail, from our seasonally inspired cuisine to our personalized service approach. We pride ourselves on being more than just catererswe are culinary storytellers who transform events into lasting memories. Our expertise spans multiple cuisines and dining styles, including plated service, buffets, and family-style meals.With operations spanning from Paso Robles to Santa Barbara, we combine California's agricultural bounty with sophisticated culinary techniques. Our team's collective experience in fine dining establishments and international kitchens ensures that every event receives both creative innovation and technical mastery. We maintain rigorous quality standards through direct partnerships with local farmers and producers, guaranteeing the freshest ingredients for every dish. Our dedication to client satisfaction is demonstrated through comprehensive event planning support, including site consultations and customized menu development. This combination of culinary excellence, personalized service, and local expertise has earned us recognition as a premier catering service on California's Central Coast.
Services
Custom Catering
Menu Design
Event Planning
Bar Services
Dessert Menus
Wine Pairing
Table Service
Buffet Setup
Food Stations
Tasting Events
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We offer 23 years of specialized catering experience on California's Central Coast
- Our team includes classically trained chefs with international culinary expertise
- We accommodate most dietary restrictions while maintaining culinary excellence
- We provide comprehensive event planning support from consultation to execution
- Our menus feature ingredients sourced directly from local farmers and producers
What people say
Exceptional food quality
Personalized service approach
Unforgettable dining experiences
Professional event coordination
Creative menu designs
Services
Custom Catering
Our custom catering service creates tailored dining experiences for weddings, corporate events, and private gatherings. We work closely with clients to develop menus that reflect their personal style and event theme. Using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, our team of chefs prepares each dish with meticulous attention to detail while accommodating various dietary requirements.
Menu Design
Our menu design service combines culinary creativity with practical event planning. We offer multiple cuisine options including rustic California, French, Mediterranean, and Tuscan styles. Each menu features seasonal ingredients and can be customized to match specific event aesthetics while ensuring optimal guest satisfaction through balanced flavor profiles and presentation.
Event Planning
Comprehensive event planning support covers everything from initial consultations to on-site execution. Our experienced event managers coordinate all aspects of food service, timing, and logistics. We provide site assessments, staffing recommendations, and rental coordination to ensure seamless event execution across various venue types.
Bar Services
Our premium bar services feature custom cocktail menus crafted by expert mixologists. We offer signature drinks tailored to event themes, including classic and contemporary recipes. The service includes professional bartending staff, appropriate glassware, and responsible alcohol service while maintaining exceptional presentation standards.
Tasting Events
We provide tasting events to help clients experience our culinary offerings before finalizing menus. Options include partial and full tastings for up to six guests with pricing based on guest count and menu complexity. Tastings allow clients to sample seasonal ingredients and discuss customization options directly with our chefs.
People
Nick Nolan
Chef, Owner
Nick Nolan, a Los Angeles native with culinary training from Santa Barbara City College, brings extensive international kitchen experience to Trumpet Vine Catering. He worked in Australia and under Farm to Table pioneer Chris Kobayashi before founding Trumpet Vine. His culinary philosophy focuses on elevated California cuisine using the finest local ingredients.
Erica Nolan
Co-Owner
Erica Nolan, a Cal Poly graduate in Wine and Viticulture, transitioned from marketing at Firestone Walker Brewing Company to co-owning Trumpet Vine Catering. She manages marketing and sales while combining her wine expertise with culinary events. Her background in beverage marketing enhances the company's pairing and hospitality offerings.
Brian Watson
Chef De Cuisine
Brian Watson, a Boston native with 30+ years of culinary experience, specializes in seafood and BBQ techniques. A Culinary Institute of America graduate, he brings East Coast expertise to the team after working in Puerto Rico and California. His nickname 'The Caribbean Cowboy' reflects his unique culinary background and approach.
Autumn Knapp
Event Manager
Autumn Knapp, originally from Santa Cruz, combines her event planning expertise with culinary passion at Trumpet Vine Catering. With experience from Kennolyn Events, she specializes in coordinating seamless dining experiences. Her background in wedding coordination ensures meticulous attention to detail for every event she manages.
Tony Tran
Marketing Manager
Tony Tran, a Cal Poly engineering graduate, transitioned from tech to culinary marketing at Trumpet Vine Catering. His expertise in branding and classic French cooking techniques enhances the company's marketing strategy. He combines design sensibilities with culinary passion to create compelling event narratives.
Questions
What is Trumpet Vine Catering's pricing structure?
Our catering services range from $100-$130 per person, including staff, equipment setup, and on-site management. This covers pre-ceremony beverages, hors d'oeuvres, dinner service, and post-event cleanup.
Do you offer alcohol service?
We provide full bartending services with custom cocktail menus, but clients must supply the alcohol. Our mixologists create signature drinks tailored to your event's theme and preferences.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
We accommodate most dietary restrictions and allergies. Our chefs work closely with clients to create alternative options that maintain the same quality and presentation as our standard menu items.
What rental services do you provide?
We coordinate rental requirements including kitchen equipment, tables, chairs, and linens. Clients are responsible for rental costs, which vary based on event size and venue requirements.
Do you offer menu tasting sessions?
Yes, we offer partial and full tasting sessions for up to six guests. Partial tastings start at $150 and full tastings at $300, with additional guest fees. Tastings help clients experience seasonal ingredients and menu options.
What service styles do you offer?
We provide plated service (1 server/10-12 guests), family-style (1/12-15), and buffet (1/20-22). Our staff-to-guest ratios ensure optimal service quality across all dining formats while maintaining presentation standards.
