Archive for August, 2010

Great Rehearsal Dinner Asian Style

Posted by: Chris Campbell

August 30th, 2010 >> Events, Weddings

It was a fun evening at the Kluzak residence when The Abbey Catering threw a rehearsal dinner party with an Asian theme. On the menu we offered traditional fried rice, pad Thai, salmon and chicken skewers. All of which were served in original Asian take out boxes, with chop sticks of course. The client and guests were very happy with the originality and quality of the food, many of which came back for seconds. The bride-to-be was so pleased she gave Petr the coordinator and myself a huge hug at the end of the night. Thus proving we can provide exceptional service and food for any event.

If you are interested in tasting the best The Abbey has to offer, contact us here.

The Abbey's famous tasty treats Asian Style

A candle-lit dinner for 70

The San Diego 10News A-List Awards are here.

Posted by: Chris Campbell

August 29th, 2010 >> Other

The local San Diego tradition of the 10News A-List Awards is here again.  The Abbey Catering & Event Design is again nominated in the Best Caterer category and we would love to have your support.

There are lots of different things that can contribute to a company, such as The Abbey, rising to the top of the list.  First and foremost of those things would have to be Food, Food, Food. With years of culinary training and expertise among our many chefs, and the guidance and genius of our  Founder, Zapher Dajani, the Abbey Catering has a wide range of menu selections.  From south of the border, to across the pond, to the far east…The Abbey Catering & Event Design has the food that San Diegan events want.  Choosing from the freshest local ingredients, our cuisine is tailor made for each client’s needs and desires.  With a growing demand for organic fare, The Abbey is continually striving to stay on the cutting edge of what is happening  in the world of organic cooking.

Another true mark of a great catering company is its service.  Service is what sets a company apart from the rest and keeps them going for years and years.  The Abbey Catering has worked hard at developing and maintaining a sterling reputation in the San Diego wedding industry.  From planning, forethought, communication and  execution, our staff is diligent at making sure your day is as memorable as ever.

Finally, passion is the driving force behind the great companies of the world.  We’ve all heard that old saying, “Love what you do and do what you love”.  Without a love and passion for making the best events out there possible, we here at the Abbey would really not be of any lasting benefit to our clients.  To us, clients become friends and friends, with time, become family.  Endeavoring to stay in touch with past clients is not only a pleasure, it’s a privilege.

So as the voting for the 10News A-List awards comes to a close on September 3rd, we would like to take this opportunity to ask for your support in making us number one on the list.  Below you will find the links to vote for us and some of our preferred partner venues.  Thank you so much for letting us be a part of your lives and for helping us grow as a business, and a family.

Vote here by clicking on each of the links below:

The Abbey Catering & Event Design

The La Jolla Woman’s Club

The La Jolla Cove Suites

La Jolla Cove Suites and rooftop memories.

Posted by: Chris Campbell

August 27th, 2010 >> Preferred Venues, Weddings

The Abbey provided another hand picked fresh selection of our famous appetizers, the amazing New England Blue crab cakes with lobster Aioli that had been crisped to perfection and served over fresh picked greens. A favorite of fresh fish from the sea on top of crunchy piece of cucumber are dices of Ahi tuna poke with sesame oil that really refreshes your pallet. The variety of taste in one bite is the outstanding tri-colored brochette on a toasted sliver of baguette. The main course started with our famous Abbey house salad topped with crumbled feta and chopped walnuts with dried cranberries topped off with tangy raspberry vinaigrette. The main course was prepared to perfection, the Chianti braised Angus beef with a creamy beef gravy over it served with fresh grilled assorted vegetables with a side our delicious truffle and rosemary mashed potatoes. It was a taste to remember on another beautiful day in La Jolla day, stop by to schedule your tasting that will change your mind, and please your taste buds.

The La Jolla Cove Suites has great value, top notch accommodations and world class views. To speak to one of our event specialists about touring the rooftop venue or how The Abbey All Inclusive Package can fit your needs, contact us here.

The Abbey Catering & Event Design

Custom Wedding Program Keepsakes

The Abbey Catering Wedding Menu Selection

A feast fit for King and Queen

The Abbey Catering Full Bar

The Abbey Catering Full Bar

Rooftop at La Jolla Cove Suites

A Father's Pride and Joy

The Abbey Catering Cake

A Wedding Cake Tradition Lives On

Photos courtesy of Julie Buchta Davis Photography

Two friends join hands and join hearts.

Posted by: Chris Campbell

August 25th, 2010 >> Preferred Vendors, Preferred Venues, Weddings

New York & Louisiana converged on the rooftop of the La Jolla Cove Suites, to the delight of our happy couple,  Kelly & Patrick.  Reverend Tuttle kicked it off with a sentimental and  joyous ceremony, that gave our couple and  guests a taste of good times to come. Classical guitar styling by artist Miles Moynier filled cocktail hour as everyone was treated to some of the Abbey’s finest appetizers. Led by Abbey Captain, Warren Carlyle, the team was extremely diligent and handled every guest with care and  good humor. Dinner service was fluid and offered a sampling of surf-&-turf with our own Chianti braised Black Angus beef and shrimp skewers to compliment the beach themed La Jolla landmark. DJ Randy delivered another stellar performance, energizing the crowd with an eclectic sampling of songs chosen by our happy couple. The topper to the evening was a delicately crafted creation by San Diego’s own Flourpower!  The cake was gorgeously accompanied by a beautiful bouquet designed by Kelly with our florist Arturo of ArtQuest Florals.  Brides, be sure to check out some of his creations, they are pure magic.  The evening came to a finale with a medley of upbeat songs including a special selection by Kelly’s father and a tribute by Mr. Sinatra. It felt as though I was amongst family that night.  The love for Kelly & Patrick was truly evident in every face present and  I was so pleased to be a part of it all. Enjoy Maui you two-I hope to see you soon!


The La Jolla Cove Suites has great value, top notch accommodations and world class views. To speak to one of our event specialists about touring the rooftop venue or how The Abbey All Inclusive Package can fit your needs, contact us here.

The Abbey Catering Preferred Venue

Oceanfront Rooftop Ceremony at La Jolla Cove Suites

San Diego Wedding Photography

A Kiss to Seal the Deal

The Abbey Catering & Event Design

Seaside Abbey Appetizers

San Diego Event Design The Abbey

Personalized Placeholders

La Jolla Cove Suites Wedding Cake

The Couple's Special Cake

The Abbey Catering & Event Design

Abbey Event Coordinator Robert Battoe and the happy couple.

Photos courtesy of Julie Buchta Davis Photography

Two souls with but a single thought. Two hearts that beat as one on the Sunset Cliffs.

Posted by: Chris Campbell

August 24th, 2010 >> Other

I was delighted to be a part of one of my dear friend’s very special day. The entire event could not have turned out any finer. The ceremony took place at the beautiful Sunset Cliffs in Point Loma, with a very festive mariachi band playing in the background. The reception was held at the lovely Thursday Club in Point Loma. Hot pink crushed linens with black and white runners and bright green satin linens made this wedding extraordinary and gave the whole room a modern, contemporary feel but was also warm and inviting. Three food stations with a variety of food were just outstanding and unique.  I am so proud of how this wonderful event turned out for my dear friend and will remember this day for years to come.

For more on The Thursday Club and The Abbey Catering & Event Design, we would love to hear from you here.

San Diego's Sunset Cliffs Wedding

Bride and Groom at Sunset Cliffs

San Diego Bride's Maids at Abbey Catering Event

The ever faithful bride's maids.

San Diego Wedding with The Abbey Catering

The Bride and her Maids in San Diego

Party at The Thursday Club in San Diego

Party at The Thursday Club in San Diego

The Abbey Catering Famous Martini Tree

The Abbey Catering's Famous Martini Tree

Photos Courtesy of Gemini Photography

A Sunset Cliffs Affair for Two

Posted by: Chris Campbell

August 22nd, 2010 >> Events, Other, Preferred Venues, Weddings

The beautiful location on Sunset Cliffs in Point Loma was the location for the joining of Katie and Matt, as they started off on a new journey as husband and wife.  The reception was held at one of the most beautiful venues, The Thursday Club in Point Loma. The Abbey Catering &  Event  Design provided a fabulous appetizing menu compliments to our  Chef Matt Berardi. The tasteful menu offered a variety of the Abbey’s special dishes. The highest caliber food is always prepared by the Abbey and we would love for everyone to come  taste the difference and enjoy our assorted buffet menus, like our mouth watering spare ribs and our truffle mashed potatoes, which are only a few items off our great menu. I would just like to say congratulations again to Katie and Matt, and that this wonderful day could not have been possible without the special care of the Abbey staff.

For more on The Thursday Club and The Abbey Catering & Event Design, we would love to hear from you here.

San Diego Sunset Cliffs Abbey Catering

Adoring Groom & Blushing Bride in San Diego

The Abbey Catering San Diego Wedding

San Diego Bride & Groom at Sunset Cliffs Ceremony

San Diego Thursday Club Catered by The Abbey Catering

The Thursday Club Wedding Venue

San Diego's Abbey Catering

Abbey Chef attended stations.

The Thursday Club Dessert with The Abbey Catering

Sweets for the sweet couple.

Photos Courtesy of Gemini Photography

Whirlwind Wedding in Balboa Park

Posted by: Chris Campbell

August 20th, 2010 >> Events, Other, Preferred Venues, Weddings


Balboa Park was honored in celebrating the joining of Brian and Ally. Their event took place in three specially chosen locations throughout the park. The ceremony was located in the Casa del Prado patio. With the high arches and unique architecture this wedding was a beauty from the get go.  Afterward, the guests traveled down a long sidewalk that was bordered by a narrow water feature. The pond was inhabited by greenery, flower, and various forms of wildlife. Cocktail hour was sure to spark smiles, thanks to both the delicious hors d’oeuvres and stunning views. Later that evening guests were escorted to The Museum of Photographic Arts where their night would unfold with music, food, laughter, and joy. With over a hundred guests to witness, the bride grabbed the microphone and sang her love to her new husband. As all guests stared in awe and you couldn’t help but feel thankful to witness one of the most magnetic chemistry between two individuals.  Congratulations to the newlyweds.

The Abbey Catering & Event Design would love to help you plan you wedding at this preferred venue or any other one in San Diego.

Mopa san diego abbey catering

Museum of Photographic Arts, Balboa Park

John & Lauren’s Spectacular Seaside Wedding Day

Posted by: Chris Campbell

August 18th, 2010 >> Events, Other, Preferred Venues, Weddings

San Diego Wedding caterer The Abbey Catering

First walk as husband and wife.

La Jolla San diego catering the abbey

Dinner on the lawn.

The sun broke early at La Jolla Shores to welcome our happy couple & their guests. The La Jolla Bridge Club is a great space perched just above the beach with a perfect view of the ocean. Guests were greeted to the soulful tin-drum of Pat Burke and a bevy of sumptuous appetizers prepared by Abbey Chef & Founder Zapher Dajani. Lauren was an absolute vision & John very cool & dashing in his tuxedo. Lauren organized a magnificent candy bar which delighted her guests with sweet treats all through the evening. Our Abbey team worked diligently to satisfy every need and accommodate every request. As the evening wound down, I had opportunity to spend some time with Johns groomsmen and Laurens bridesmaids. All lovely and completely happy for our perfect couple. John, Lauren & I spent a few minutes at the close of their day chatting about the day. I have to say they are a wonderful couple & its a true pleasure to know them. Happy Honeymooning!

For more information about the beautiful La Jolla Bridge Club and The Abbey Catering & Event Design, contact us here.

La jolla bridge club abbey catering

A Seaside Kiss to seal the deal.

Photos courtesy of Julie Buchta Davis Photography

Sweets for the sweet

Posted by: Chris Campbell

August 16th, 2010 >> Other, Preferred Venues, Weddings

Last weekend, on a sunny day overlooking La Jolla Cove, Lauren and John sealed the deal with salt water taffy, jelly beans and M&M’s.  What a fitting homage to such a sweet love!

As friends and family readied themselves for what was sure to be a celebration “for the books”, they were greeted at the La Jolla Bridge Club with an open bar and tray-passed appetizers in a lovely sun-kissed garden.  Just over 100 thirty-somethings steadied themselves at the sight of both Stone IPA and Budlight on tap amidst a full alcohol and soda bar.  Tri-colored bruschetta, New England Blue crab cakes, coconut shrimp skewers and mini-beef wellington warmed the bellies of the enthusiastic guests as they raised a glass to honor the couple as they made their grand entrance to “Bitter Sweet Symphony” by The Verve performed on steel drums.

Inside, overlooking the magnificent Pacific Ocean, kids and adults alike, filled  themselves at a whimsical candy-bar that included old-time favorites such as salt water taffy, M&M’s, jelly beans, sour worms, jordan almonds and Swedish fish.

Dinner was an enthusiastically received, delectable, panko-crusted chicken breast and juicy, cut-to-order, Tri-tip that was served over cream cheese mashed potatoes and mixed veggies.  As guests were welcomed onto the dance-floor, they danced the night away to Journey, Lady Gaga, Stevie Wonder and the unforgettable, unmistakable musical stylings of  The Righteous Brothers.

The bride and groom were the last to leave and, as we hugged our goodbyes, they shared their excitement over a wonderful day and wonderful life to come.

The Abbey Catering & Event Design would be honored to help make your special day as memorable as Lauren & John’s day. Contact us here for more info.

San Diego La Jolla Caterer the Abbey Catering

The Beautiful La Jolla Bridge Club

San Diego La Jolla Caterer the Abbey Catering

A Garden Cocktail Hour

San Diego La Jolla Bridge Club Abbey Catering

Cheers to the happy couple.

San Diego La Jolla Caterer the Abbey Catering

Abbey Chef hard at work.

Photos courtesy of Julie Buchta Davis Photography

An Indian Wedding That Won’t Be Soon Forgotten

Posted by: Chris Campbell

August 16th, 2010 >> Other, Preferred Venues, Weddings

A wonderful event, for an equally wonderful family. With guests traveling from all over the world, this wedding was a simple, yet elegant affair. With crushed teal linens, gold Chiavari chairs, colorful floral displays, and teal uplights throughout it was the perfect ambiance for this festive affair. The cuisine was Indian inspired, and was phenomenal.

It was a pleasure to be involved in this day. The La Jolla Woman’s Club only helped with the theme. With the outdoor gardens, and cocktail tables and colorful belly bars stationed throughout, the setting was colorful, yet quaint, and turned out exactly how the clients envisioned.

The most important thing that I take from this event is the clients’ gratitude and appreciation for our services as a TEAM. Although, you may have your own visions and dreams for your wedding, we are here to turn YOUR vision in to a reality and will go to any length to accommodate.

We would love to help you plan and design your upcoming wedding at thus top notch wedding venue in La Jolla, CA.

La Jolla Woman's Club The Abbey Catering

Simplicity was the order of the day.

San Diego La Jolla Caterer The Abbey Catering

The Abbey Crew fast at work preparing for the event.