ABOUT US

Our Story

Welcome to the rich history of Paella Valenciana, Southern California's premier paella catering company since 1977. Founded by Juan Pomares, a native of Spain, Paella Valenciana has been delivering authentic, unique, and aromatic paella experiences across San Diego, with Los Angeles, Orange County and Temecula considered for groups of 50+.

Known affectionately as "The Paella Man," Juan Pomares introduced the flavorful delight of paella to San Diegans in the 70s, bringing his Mama's Paella Recipe to life. Now, the legacy continues with the next generation as Juan's niece, Lizette manages the business, bringing to the table the same delicious Flavor of Spain.

Chef Lizette Rodriguez

MEET THE OWNER & CHEF

Lizette Rodriguez

At Paella Valenciana, we pride ourselves on using only the finest and freshest ingredients. Chef Lizette guarantees that you'll not only love our paellas for their delectable taste but also for the aromatic anticipation they evoke, adding to a fantastic atmosphere at your event. Located in San Diego, California, we stand ready to serve you the best paella in the world, any time, any day.

SAN DIEGO PAELLA CATERING

Our Catering

For your upcoming party or special occasion, look no further for a reliable caterer providing only the best foods. Paella Valenciana offers a diverse menu of paellas cooked to perfection, showcasing the traditional flavors of Spain. Our paellas feature a delightful mix of chicken, seafood items like shrimp, calamari, mussels, clams, scallops, crab, lobster, and vegetables such as red bell peppers, garlic, tomatoes, and green peas.

Cooked with expertise and passion, our paellas are prepared in the iconic "paella pan," using olive oil and the exquisite spice of saffron. With over four decades of experience, we can guide you through various authentic paella variations, ensuring a culinary experience that meets the tastes and preferences of all paella lovers.

Whether it's weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, business and corporate functions, or any special event, our San Diego paella catering services promise to elevate your celebration with the unparalleled flavors of Paella Valenciana.

Team - Paella Valenciana
Chefs cooking paella on site - Paella Valenciana

Our Services

Bride and groom holding plates of paella at an outdoor wedding reception

Weddings

A full hour of service, tastings before you book, and a pan sized to the room. San Diego, with Los Angeles, Orange County and Temecula considered for groups of 50+.

Wedding packages
Server handing a plate of paella to a guest beside a large paella pan at a corporate event

Corporate events

Over forty years of company parties, fundraisers and production catering, from 25 people to over a thousand on a single site.

Corporate packages
Guests gathered around a paella station with the chef at a backyard celebration

Parties & celebrations

Birthdays, anniversaries, graduations and backyard gatherings. The station becomes the centre of the evening.

Party catering

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Your Ingredients Ethically Sourced?

Certainly! We are dedicated to ensuring that our ingredients are ethically sourced. Paella Valenciana is committed to supporting responsible and sustainable practices in every aspect of our culinary journey to ensure a delightful and memorable dining experience for your events. We shop locally for all our events. 

What Should I Expect The Catering Process To Look Like?

Our Chef(s) will arrive 2-2.5 hours prior to Paella serving time for set-up and to start on-site cooking. We cook from scratch and serve your paella buffet style. Paella is served promptly at that designated time. About 45 minutes Serve Time; extra time may be added for a fee. Weddings 1 hour Serve Time.

Do You Offer Gluten Free or Vegetarian Options?

Yes, we proudly offer gluten-free and vegetarian options to accommodate various dietary preferences and restrictions. While we are not certified gluten-free, our paella is cooked with rice, olive oil, and our saffron seasoning, which does not list gluten as part of the ingredients. Note: our prep facility is not gluten-free or nut free.

Can You Help Us Find Party Rentals, Bartenders, Staffing, & Entertainment?

Yes! We have worked with various party rental companies, skilled bartenders, professional staffing, and entertainment solutions that do great work. Contact us with your requests and we'll be happy to provide some recommendations.

Ready To Taste The Flavor of Spain?

Mailing Address

Shared Kitchen Commissary

San Diego, CA

Office Hours

Monday - Friday 10am - 4pm

We are frequently out catering and shopping for our clients events!

While we aim to answer our calls & emails as quickly as possible, please allow us 24-48hrs to respond.

© 2026 Paella Valenciana. All Rights Reserved.