Business Details
44 Years
experience
Your Trusted Catering Partner in Vallejo, CA
Rafaels Catering was founded in 1982 by Rafael and Ester Santos, combining decades of culinary expertise with a commitment to quality service. Rafaels 21-year US Navy career in mess hall management laid the foundation for our buffet-style catering, which has served the Bay Area for over 40 years. In 2005, our operations expanded under Rafaels son Joe, who introduced new menu innovations. By 2019, Joes wife Frankie joined full-time, strengthening our family-driven approach alongside three generations of the Santos family and dedicated teams. We specialize in creating memorable dining experiences for weddings, baptisms, quinceneras, cotillions, birthdays, retirements, and corporate events.Our menus blend classic American and international dishes, offering customizable options for events ranging from 50 to 225+ guests. Delivery services include setup and equipment, with pricing tailored to group size and location. Our reputation for exceptional food and service is reflected in testimonials from satisfied clients across social media and review platforms. We prioritize transparency, with detailed pricing, clear policies, and a 20% non-refundable deposit to secure event dates. With a focus on family values and culinary excellence, we remain a trusted choice for Bay Area events.
Services
Buffet Catering
Wedding Catering
Corporate Events
Menu Substitutions
Delivery Services
Tasting Appointments
International Cuisine
Classic American Menus
Event Setup
Custom Quotes
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- We offer over 40 years of catering experience in the Bay Area.
- Our family-owned business ensures personalized attention to every event.
- Delivery services include setup, equipment, and heating fuel.
- Customizable menu substitutions available for all packages.
- Testimonials highlight exceptional food quality and service reliability.
What people say
Hidden gem
Great food
Outstanding service
Spectacular event
Confident in service
Services
Buffet Catering
Our buffet-style catering features 711 menu items for 50225+ guests, with classic American and international dishes. Customizable options include substitutions and dietary accommodations. Pricing starts at $18 per person, with delivery services available.
Wedding Catering
We specialize in weddings with tailored menus and full-service delivery. Packages include setup, heating equipment, and serving utensils. Testimonials highlight exceptional food and seamless execution for ceremonies and receptions.
Menu Substitutions
Clients may substitute menu items from our substitutions list, including dishes like Chicken Adobo, Salmon in Lemon Butter, or Vegan Options. Additional charges apply for premium items.
Delivery Services
Delivery includes setup, heating fuel, and equipment pickup for events with 50+ guests. Charges vary by location, ranging from 15% of total cost to $325 for areas beyond 45 miles.
Tasting Appointments
Sample our dishes during Saturday appointments (11 AM2 PM) for $30. Tastings help clients finalize menus, with dietary options available upon request.
People
Rafael Santos
Founder
A 21-year US Navy veteran with expertise in mess hall management, Rafael established the catering business in 1982, laying the foundation for its 40+ years of success.
Ester Santos
Co-Founder
Co-founded the business with Rafael, contributing to its early operations and family-driven ethos that continues today.
Joe Santos
Operator
Took over operations in 2005, expanding the menu and modernizing services while maintaining the companys commitment to quality and tradition.
Frankie Santos
Operations Manager
Joined full-time in 2019, managing day-to-day operations and enhancing client communication and service delivery.
Questions
Can I pick up my order instead of delivery?
Yes, orders under 100 guests can be picked up at 616 Nebraska St, Vallejo. Larger orders require delivery.
What areas do you deliver to?
We deliver within 60 miles of Vallejo. Inquire for areas beyond this radius.
Do you offer vegan or vegetarian options?
Yes, select dishes can be made vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free upon request.
Do you provide desserts or appetizers?
No, we focus on main course buffet-style catering and do not offer desserts or appetizers.
Can I customize my menu?
Yes, substitutions are allowed from our substitutions menu, with potential price adjustments for premium items.
