New England Blue Crab Cakes

Abbey Filet Wellingtons

Appetizers are the first taste of food the guest have, so here at The Abbey we make sure they’re delicious. There are so many appetizers we have created and fine tuned, and I would like to share some of them with you.

Crab cakes are a huge hit at every party site we go to. The flavors blend together so well and once they are sautéed in a touch of butter the golden color makes them look and taste spectacular. Fresh cilantro, Dijon mustard, old bay and many other ingredients make our crab cakes a definite crowd pleaser.

Our new and improved shrimp skewers have been grabbing much attention as well.  These skewers are paired with marinaded bell peppers and onions, char-grilled and finished with a freshly made spiced apricot glaze.

Next up are our Filet Wellington bites; a puff pastry shell that is stuffed with filet, garlic, cheese and upon request, bacon. There is so much flavor packed inside these bite size appetizers, and once topped with a homemade roasted garlic red wine reduction sauce most people just can’t eat one.

The last appetizer I would like to share with you is our Ahi Poki wontons.  Minced mangoes and soy sauce, fresh herbs and much more are served on top of a flash-fried wonton round.  When you let these flavors marinate overnight it brings together a colorful, delicious and satisfying appetizer.

There are so many more to speak about, so be sure to check back on our blog to see what the kitchen is making next week!

Chef Matt and the kitchen team are always cooking up new and fascinating menus. To be part of a tasting, contact us now and have your needs catered for!

Ahi Poke Wontons

Marina Village – with all its charm and attraction, can accommodate small intimate affairs of 60 guests or grand weddings of 350. For Saturday receptions, rental rates start at $600.00 for the “Nautical Room”, which holds 60 seated guests and the Saturday price is still low at $2600.00 for the “Baja Room”, a room which holds an amazing 350 guests.  Rental of a suite includes a 5 hour period to hold your event, and you can setup and breakdown, at any time of the day, the dance floor or complimentary tables and chairs.  Each room is only rented out once per diem, so you can come in to decorate as early as 9:00am and even rarer for San Diego event venues – your event does not have to end until midnight!  Still another bonus is a costless and vast parking space available for you and anyone you are so inclined to invite.

Consider having your wedding ceremony in a beautifully landscaped lawn, the birds humming perfectly pitched tunes, the wind blowing soft curls through your hair and all for $600.00, renting a prime locale on the best day of the week – Saturday, for only six benjamins the beauty of this experience could be yours to remember.  The $600 covers a liberating 3 hours, an arch and a hundred white wood chairs. If you book the ceremony and reception through The Marina Village, you can look forward to a $100 discount.

If any of the above intrigued you, The Marina Village is located on 1936 Quivira Way and stays open 7 days a week.  Feel free to check out their website to find some wonderful pictures and an array of information at their website or you could pick up a phone to schedule a visit by dialing (619) 222-1620.

We have always enjoyed working with The Marina Village and if you also require culinary expertise our phones and doors are always open – we offer cash saving specials on catering and event design with this beautiful venue.

Do you dream of spicing up this magnificent venue? What details can we help arrange for the celebration of your special day…

The Abbey Catering Photo Booth for fun, personal videos and pictures.

If you are anything like the team at the Abbey, we know you like to have fun, either acting goofy with your friends and family or making lasting memories in which you can look back on and laugh about later.  So, guess what?  We decided to get a fully functional, state of the art photo booth, with  video capture and access to upload your photos to facebook almost instantly!

You can imagine your surprise as your friends, family and guests take candid shots of which they can share on their facebook instantly or you can have as we conveniently store all the videos and photos onto a usb flash drive, while they get to have the proofs.  This is a great way to entertain everyone as you have some genuine fun making goofy faces, and recording special messages for a seasonal party, wedding, or corporate event, and it makes a great ice breaker as you share the photos you have taken over food, drinks, and a great all around time. You can even come in and check it out for yourself. Oh! And did i mention that the themes can be fully customized for any event, and its mobile, meaning it can be brought to any events catered by the Abbey…now how’s that sound for a little added fun?

The Abbey has plenty of ideas to help add more excitement to your event day and we value your thoughts on how we can make it better. Click here and share your ideas…

They don’t just groom you for weddings either….whether its a night on the town, or a photo shoot, they come to you in the privacy of your own home and they even do spray tanning, which drys instantly, doesn’t smell, changes the topical layer of your skin so you actually tan underneath…It goes on easy, sets in 15 minutes, and last 6-12 days. And it actually feels good during the process….what can you say to that guys? But don’t worry gents, they can also do woman too. Its 100% confidential, and in a totally comfortable atmosphere. And ladies if your reading this, now he has no reason to not look his best, as PROJECT – M grooms his physique and relaxes both mind and spirit making sure you both look your best for your pictures.
Last but not least, and this is the best part, you can get all your grooms and brides-maids done too!

Project M has different packages to cater to all your needs, and it’s part of The Abbey’s All Inclusive Package.

Contact us here to find out more about The Abbey’s All Inclusive Package options.

 Where to my delight the beautiful aroma of flowers wafted through the air welcoming me as I entered this scene of fantastic art and floral display. Many mingling and merrily refreshed onlookers wandered amidst surroundings which emanated an ambiance of an enchanted garden. It was In that moment I could feel this was an event put together with style, class and soul. Chilled martini glasses hung as forbidden fruit among orange and ruby roses which transitioned nature and play in a heavenly style, as if they were apples asking to be picked and savored.

As I turned from the menagerie and martini tree toward other delectables I was enticed to find the flavor of the artists and the flavor of the fine dining were in perfect harmony. Each taste from my avant-garde mashed potato martini possessed and mused with the visual taste of the décor and design. While each sip of my classic martini fulfilled my desire while I pondered the magic involved and thirsted for more time among this spellbinding Walk through the Arts. Unknowingly I came to the San Diego Museum of the Arts with an fantastical hunger and left full of wonder, filled in spirit, and rich in taste.

San Diego Museum Of Man

It boasts a majestic tower and tiled dome when lit up will delight your guests as they marvel at the seamless flow of the Rotunda which is ideal for mingling or as additional seating for your day. Your guests can meander through exhibits as they engage in good food , cocktails, and good times. This is a destination Venue at the front door of Historic Balboa Park that is not to be missed.

San Diego Museum of Man

San Diego’s Balboa Park has much to offer you and your event if seeking history and beautiful structures and landscaping, is this what you seek or more…….

Hall of Champions

The Abbey Catering had the Honor of Representing Equality California at the Hall of Champions on April 30, 2011 for their San Diego Equality Awards Ceremony honoring Equality, Leadership and Justice.   At a sit down dinner for 300 guests, that was sponsored by over 30 companies who also supports Equality California, the featured entertainment was Mango and Dango.

Banquet Dinner Setting

The Awards recognized distinguished compatriots who went above and beyond their duties while facing challenges and over coming obstacles. Equality California was founded in 1998, and has helped many individuals throughout its inception and continues to do so in present time. The Abbey Catering was one of the biggest contributors to Equality California and we were proud to represent them at their Awards Banquet with delectable dishes of savory food and scrumptious desserts.

Equality California Awards Speaker

Hall of champions Awards Banquet

Also please LIKE us on facebook.com and stay current on upcoming events, specials, and blogs.  Click here to find out how The Abbey Catering can make your corporate event a success.

Puerto Vallarta Silent Auction

Congrats to the Winner of our Silent Auction for a trip to Puerto Vallarta.

Scott won a trip sponsored by The Abbey Catering during our Equality

California Event hosted by the Hall of Champions located in Balboa Park.

Like us on Facebook to have a opportunity to enter and win at other

upcoming events sponsored by us.

Britt Scripps Inn wedding catering venue and party planning spot.

RSVP Robert(Wedding Planner/Event Coordinator) 1-866-535-8949 ext 728

The Abbey Catering

RSVP to the event now by clicking ahead and get complimentary engagement photos….

The Abbey Event Catering gets involved.

The Abbey appreciates all the good fortune we have received through all our patronage given from the community of San Diego County and those surrounding it.  We give our all so that each event is special to those that attend and the best compliment we can receive is a friend or family referral to use our services.

Through such patronage, we are proud to give back to the community which include such organizations as National Association of Catering Executives, the American Red Cross Haiti Earthquake Fund, the Mercy Outreach Surgical Team, Equality California Organization, the Rob Benzon Foundation, the GLBT Historical Society, the San Diego Museum of Man, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the St. James by the Sea Church, Riviera Magazine, and many more.

We, at The Abbey Catering, offer our event design and catering services all throughout San Diego County all the way up to some parts of LA County including communities like La Jolla, Mission Bay, Mission Hills, Rancho Santa Fe, Coronado, Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach, Encinitas,  Hillcrest, Mission Beach, Camp Pendleton, San Marcos, San Luis Obispo, Vista, Bird Rock, Downtown, and most other districts throughout San Diego.

Giving back to your community benefits you as well as your community.  If you wish do a benefit and help your community, join with us, click ahead and give back to your community….

The Abbey Catering will also be chauffeuring guests from the parking structure to La Jolla Cove Suites in San Diego’s longest limo… just one of the fourteen options in our custom All-Inclusive Wedding Package.

Aerial View of LJCS in the heart of La Jolla

La Jolla Cove Suites Entrance

La Jolla Cove Suites

San Diego''s Longest Limo found at The Abbey Catering

Dreaming of a Romance by the Sea? Then click ahead and follow those dreams, see what possibilities are instore for you….

Feeling Eco-Conscience?

Birch Wood

For all of you Eco-conscience, earth friendly bride and grooms, or any one that cares about the planet and of leaving little or no carbon footprint, The Abbey Team wants to let you know that  many of our Clients trends are moving towards a Greener , Lower Carbon Emission Event. The Abbey is Eco-Minded and offers these clients alternatives to customize their day and set their minds at ease. Two ways this is being facilitated are by recycling to reduce trash to landfills and using Eco-Friendly products on Event Site.  Recycling makes sense  regardless on your stance for climate change. From kitchen product to the bar, recyclables are separated and disposed of properly. It’s a small thing but it does make a difference. Eco-Friendly Products have been a trend for years and the Abbey has partnered with several companies so that we can offer these items to our clients.  One popular new product is flatware made entirely of birch wood. They are sourced from sustainable forests and trees are replanted to account for loss. Prepared in a completely Carbon Neutral facility without any harsh products and sanitized by steam. Impress your friends with your care for the future by taking advantage of this and many other new  options for your next Event. For an additional charge, your birch flatware can even be personalized with your logo. Go Green-Go Abbey!

The Abbey would love to help you plan your big day, while looking out for the environment and making your wedding dreams come true.

The Abbey catering served the most amazing & signature hor dourves, on silver platters. Just to name few, Ahi’ Poke’ served on cucumber rounds, Beef Sliders, miniature Beef Wellington Bites and more were a hit that won’t be forgotten for a long time, all 75 guests raved about the food and service. Spectacular drinks mixed by Best Beverage Company kept the party going and champagne pouring. Even on a rainy day, The Abbey was able to put together a spectacular event that pleased all!   We wish Drew many happy years and celebrations to come and we are grateful for making us a part of day, it was nothing short of perfection.

Beef Sliders

Ahi Poke served in cucumber rounds

Click here to find out more about how The Abbey can help make your birthday wishes come true by giving you a perfect event in which you and your friends will be raving about…

tree with fruit infused champagne

You are such  true professionals. You made every idea I had about the wedding come true and exceeded every expectation I had.  Every time we spoke, you made me feel like I was the only bride you had as a client even though I know you were always in high demand! You genuinely cared about our wedding and went to every length to ensure our satisfaction.  I cannot express my thanks to you enough; you honestly gave us perfection.The entire Abbey experience was amazing.  Every single person that had a hand in our wedding made it as special as if it were their own.  I felt so calm and confident knowing that every detail was taken care of by the Abbey staff.  I can honestly say that I was never “stressed” about any part of the wedding planning or the actual day because of the trust I had in the Abbey and the vendors I had chosen.  It is clear that everyone takes pride in their work and is shows in every wedding they do.  So thank you to Robert, Rob,  Arturo, Randy, Blake, Tande, Babycakes and all the service professionals for making our day perfect.

With warmest regards

We really enjoy making people happy…whether planning events, and weddings or just taking care of the little things…At The Abbey you’ll never have to sweat the small stuff…

Robert Battoe

Brides & Grooms recently engaged…the planning has begun. What is the first thing you do?  The dress, venue, catering?   No, the first order of business is to come up a realistic budget. I often tell my brides that this is a project in itself and certainly, a learning experience. With a show of hands, how many have planned a wedding before?  Ummm….i see!  Well, standards in the industry are constantly changing so what is the best method of determining an accurate budget? First things first, what is the number one most important thing to you that you will not waiver on? Answer that and then make a list of all of the elements to your design and vendors you want to see present i.e. florist, cake, photography, catering. Research that list and come up with 3 options per and then investigate their products. I say 3 because any more will overwhelm. For the photography, for example , we will need to get an estimate on everything you want from engagement photos to extra per hour charges from each candidate. Use the internet to read their reviews. Everybody has happy client testimonials but don’t neglect Yelp.  Be confident when asking for the bottom line and estimated additional costs. I offer my clients the opportunity to review their other proposals, and often they are not itemized and spelled out fully when they are reviewing them.  Find someone with a passion for what they do. Is that a personal plug?  Yes! I have references and I’m not afraid to use them . I’m of the Miracle On 34TH Street mind-set and if the Abbey’s not the best choice, I will tell you and offer you suggestions on what might be the best fit for your aesthetic or budget. This is an important day to you, and to me. Let’s make it the best it can be!

The Abbey would love to help you have the perfect picnic wedding, if you need help or tips and preparing your budget, our Team is more than happy to help you.

Picture it, a grassy field, a setting anyone could enjoy that brings you back to the good old days. Custom blankets in your bridesmaids colors lay out before you adorned by Floral Displays on small custom tables at every site. Servers tending to you as though it were a formal sit-down dinner, but the kids can come, run around , and so can the adults. Seated on your blanket, you will enjoy the luxury of the Seated Dinner Service, but have the laid back mentality of your childhood. Set up a lemonade bar to complete the vision, offer seating for Mom & Dad, Grandparents too but the mass of your guests will be completely emerged in a throw-back that will excite and delight children of all ages.

Every Guest satiated, we move to the big dance. Stand and walk to a clearing set with the dance floor and resplendent with twinkling lights that dress the day like fireflies. You wanted something completely unique, you wanted something to allow all of your guests to let their hair down but still enjoy the finer things. Do yourself a favor and paint this picture for your day- you will not be disappointed!

The Abbey would love to help you have the perfect picnic wedding, bringing you back to a memorable time when things were simple and carefree but with a classically luxurious feel.

Please feel free to contact Rob Leszewski directly at (619)204-1192 or rob@theabbeycatering.com to take advantage of this wonderful special or for any more information.  We’ve got plenty more to offer and please feel free to mention this blog posting for an extra discount on your custom proposal as well.

We’re always running specials and discounts to better accommodate, and currently we’re also offering them for preferred venues.  Just give me a call or email and I’ll be sure to do my best.  Thanks in advance!!!

Table with White Chavari Chairs

Chavari Chairs in Mohagany

Gold Chavari Chairs with white cushions

The Abbey would love to help you add more elegance to your already beautiful day with our signature Chiavari chairs, ask the team for details.
 

Something Old

Sometimes couples want a different type of wedding.  A little change from the norm.  Most weddings have structured tables and chairs, seating for all guests, and the usual.  Not to say that’s a bad thing… that’s how my wedding was for over 300 guests.  But now “flow reception’s” are becoming much more popular.  There are no rules really, just whatever you want and envisioned for your reception.

LoungeSeating

Typically, we’ll arrange for seating for approximately 25-50% of your guest count.  I can arrange for assorted sized tables from 48″ cocktail tables to seat 4-6, 60″ dining tables to sit 8-10, and Belly Bars to accommodate the rest of your guests standing comfortably with drinks and food.  We can also arrange lounge furniture which is a HUGE hit at these type of events.

Something Borrowed and Blue

For the food, we try to go with the same theme.  Tray-passed appetizers for the Cocktail Hour, Stations with a variety of options served in smaller portions so your guests can continue from one station to the next.  All in all everything’s ultimately up to you and we’re here to accommodate in any way.  It’s YOUR wedding after all.

Appetizers to Die For!

Appetizers Galore

Specially Catered food for all your guest

The Abbey would love to help you plan your big day, and we work with many of the top venues in San Diego and other locations to make your wedding dreams come true.

Signing the contract

1. Why should I choose your All-Inclusive Wedding Package?

-Great question. Our All-Inclusive Package offers you the ability to one-stop-shop choosing from a diverse list of qualified Vendors. Each Vendor has been hand selected to deliver the highest quality product and communication. Our Vendors  offer a reduced rate through our All-Inclusive that translates into savings for you . Also, the level of communication and continuity is great with a well honed team of professionals.

2. What are my Captains responsibilities?

-Your Captain is your go-to person throughout the planning process. Their first duty is to the management of your food & beverage. They schedule a meeting with you 1 month prior to your day to discuss your floor-plan, timeline, rentals, and final menu. They arrive on-site 3 hours prior to your start time and manage their team to execute flawless service. They are also the last to leave to ensure that your Venue of choice is left in its original condition.

3. What are my Coordinators duties?

-If you elect to have a Coordinator, many of the Pre-Wedding Day responsibilities listed above are transferred to your Coordinator. The one major difference is that your Day Of Coordinator will be communicating with your Vendors to assure a seamless execution of the Time-line. They oversee your Captain and their team to guarantee your expectations are met.They will attend a Rehearsal and be your Personal Assistant on your Day.

4. For my All-Inclusive Package, will I have a choice of my Vendors?

-Yes, each option on your Package has several Vendors to choose from. For example, we work with 4 Photography Studios , 2 of which have multiple photographers. I recommend contacting them as soon as you confirm, to verify that you find the right person to fit your needs.

5. What is the price difference for a seated service versus a buffet?

-We don’t charge differently for a seated service. The one change would be a necessary addition of servers to accommodate your guests needs. This would be determined ahead of time but adjusted to your final guest-count.

6. What if my guest count changes after I confirm.

-Inevitably your guest count will change. Your final count is due 10 days prior to your Day so your Invoice will reflect your Final Guest Count, Rentals, and Updated Staff Count.

7. Are rentals included?

-No, the reason being that several venues do have some to offer you. This also allows you the option to fully customize your rental package to your needs. Ask your salesperson to get you an estimate for rentals and it can be added to your Invoice pending your final decisions.

8. When should I schedule my Tasting?

-This is entirely up to you. Many of our Clients elect to have their Tasting close to when their scheduling their Vendor Meeting. That way, everything is fresh in their mind just weeks before their Day.

9. What are the restrictions on the Limo in your Package?

- You get the Limo for a 4 hour period, on your Day, and it can be broken up one time. This allows you to get picked up, brought to your Ceremony, and delivered to your Reception. This is a good point for that break  to enjoy your reception and afterwards, hop in the Abbey Limo and be whisked away to your final destination. We have 1 Limo on staff, if you are interested in this as an Option, reserve it immediately.

10. My fiance and I love your Menu, we have a special dish that I don’t see, how can you help me?

- Many of our Brides and Grooms come from different family backgrounds. They want to see both Cultures represented on their day. The Abbey is a fully Custom Caterer that can produce dishes specific to your needs. With a stellar Team of Chefs, your day can be customized completely to please all of your guests.

Click here to find out more about The Abbey’s FAQs and how The Abbey can make your dream wedding a very magical, very special day..

Coastal Weather to die for

San Diego's Perfect Weather

San Diego is known throughout the United States as the city that has the best weather throughout the year.  Even with the minimal rain that we do get, it typically only comes a few months of the year.  With so many indoor and outdoor venues in the area, your options are truly endless.

Facts: The average warmest month is August.  The highest recorded temperature was 111°F in 1963.  On average, the coolest month is December.  The lowest recorded temperature was 29°F in 1949.  January is the average wettest month.

Average high and low temperatures and (rain fall in inches) in San Diego are as follows…

-January  66/50 (2.28)

-February 66/52 (2.04)

-March 66/54 (2.26)

-April 69/56 (0.75)

-May 69/60 (0.20)

-June 72/63 (0.09)

-July 76/66 (0.03)

-August 78/67 (0.09)

-September 77/66 (0.21)

-October 74/61 (0.44)

-November 76/54 (1.07)

-December 66/49 (1.31)

The Abbey would love to help you plan your big day, and we work with many of the top venues in San Diego and other locations to make your wedding dreams come true.