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Elite Personal Chef Services: Celebrate Your Special Occasion with Culinary Excellence

About this Experience

What you'll do:

Elevate your next private event with Plates by Payne, where culinary art meets unforgettable experiences! Imagine indulging in a beautifully curated menu created just for your group, all while enjoying it in the comfort of your vacation property. As your chef, we handle every detail—from the shopping and prepping to cooking, serving, and cleaning up—so you can focus on what truly matters: making memories with your guests. We do the work, you create memories!

*We cater to all guests' needs and are dedicated to creating a personalized experience. We will craft a menu that accommodates all dietary preferences, including but not limited to gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. Whatever your requests, we've got you covered.

Why we love it for your party:

  • Custom curated menus (Enjoy a menu tailored specifically to your group's tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring a memorable dining experience for everyone)

  • Convenience and comfort (Celebrate in the comfort of your vacation property, eliminating the hassle of travel and allowing you to fully enjoy your gathering)

  • Personal chef attention (With a dedicated chef at your service, you receive personalized attention, allowing for a unique and engaging culinary experience)

  • Flexible dining options (Whether you prefer a formal sit-down dinner, casual family style, or an incredible grazing display, we will create a culinary experience to enhance your special occasion) 

  • Unforgettable experiences (Our goal is to create not just a meal, but an unforgettable experience that adds joy and richness to your celebration)

About this experience partner:

Nathan Payne, the creative force behind Plates By Payne, embarked on a 20+ year global journey with renowned musical acts as an audio engineer. After the birth of his daughter, he found a new rhythm that led him to blend his passion for culinary artistry with his love for creating unforgettable experiences. Nathan's keen sense of detail and dedication to perfection have seamlessly transitioned from the stage to the kitchen. His travels exposed him to a myriad of flavors and cultures, shaping his distinctive culinary style that's as eclectic as the concerts he once engineered. His journey from the world's stages to your dining room table is a testament to his passion for creating memorable moments and celebrating the rock star in all of us.

Additional information:

  • The Let's Batch per person price includes the groceries needed for our pre-set menus. Personalized menus maybe subject to additional grocery charges.

  • 20% gratuity is included in the final price. 

Check Availability

Book Your Experience

  • Family-Style Dining Experience

    Starting at$115per person

    3hr

    • Choose from our curated seasonal menu featuring fresh, high-quality ingredients.

    • Personalized menus available to meet all dietary needs. *Subject to additional grocery costs

    • Ideal for groups of 8-50 guests, ensuring a seamless dining experience.

    • Enjoy a family-style or buffet service tailored to your event.

    • Kid-friendly options available to accommodate all ages.

    • Designed for effortless group gatherings, so you can relax and enjoy quality time with your guests.

    • A Server is provided for parties of 8 or more.

  • Multi-Course Plated Dining Experience

    Starting at$145per person

    3hr

    • Custom-curated menu tailored to your unique tastes and preferences. *Subject to additional grocery costs

    • Ideal for intimate gatherings of 6-20 guests, creating a cozy, memorable atmosphere.

    • Professionally printed menus for a sophisticated touch.

    • Elegant table settings and decor are available to enhance your dining experience.

    • Designed to provide an unforgettable and seamless event experience.

    • A Server is provided for parties of 8 or more.

  • Boards and Bites

    Starting at$95per person

    2hr

    Discover the ultimate in effortless elegance with our Boards and Bites service, a premier event experience curated to make any occasion unforgettable. Whether you're hosting an intimate gathering or a lively celebration, our seasonal menu offers a variety of beautifully crafted, flavorful options that are sure to impress. Perfect for groups of 8 to 50 guests, this service provides personalized grazing boards and stunning grazing tables that serve as the centerpiece of your event, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

    Enjoy a selection of small bites passed around or station-style setups, that encourage mingling and conversation. Our carefully curated grazing boards, tables, and small bites are customizable to suit your theme and preferences, ensuring a personalized touch that elevates your event to the next level.

    Whether it’s a wedding reception, corporate gathering, or milestone celebration, Boards and Bites by Plates By Payne transforms any occasion into a memorable experience—delicious, stylish, and effortlessly sophisticated. Let us bring the art of grazing to your next gathering and leave your guests raving about the unforgettable flavors and presentation.

    • Choose from our seasonal menu, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients.

    • Ideal for groups of 8-50 guests, ensuring a perfect fit for your event.

    • Customized grazing boards and tables for a delightful, shareable experience.

    • Serve small bites, either passed around or stationed for your convenience.

    • Perfect for any occasion, making your gathering both delicious and memorable.

    • A Server is provided for parties of 8 or more.

  • Elegant Brunch Experience

    Starting at$85per person

    2hr

    Start the day in style, Plates By Payne, is dedicated to providing an elegant brunch experience right in the comfort of your home. Imagine the joy of waking up to a beautifully prepared, gourmet meal without lifting a finger—our expertly crafted seasonal menu features fresh, high-quality ingredients designed to delight your palate and impress your guests. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a luxurious weekend brunch, our service is perfect for vacation rentals, family gatherings, baby showers, bridal showers, bachelor and bachelorette parties. Let us turn your event into a memorable, effortless celebration filled with delicious food, elegant presentation, and exceptional hospitality. Elevate your next gathering—experience the convenience and sophistication of Plates By Payne and make every moment truly special.

    • Enjoy an elevated brunch experience, right in the comfort of your own home.

    • Choose from our thoughtfully crafted seasonal menu.

    • Ideal for vacation rentals, family gatherings, baby showers, bridal showers, and more.


Location

San Diego, CA

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Stay right where you are because this party's coming to you!

Cancellation Policy

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moderate Cancellation Policy

50% refund on cancellations with 7+ days notice. No refund within 7 day window.

Reviews

See All

5 (13 Ratings)

KS

Kate S.

August 2025 • Bachelorette Party

Chef Nathan catered a private dinner for a bachelorette party of 8 gals in San Diego and he was incredible! Communication was easy, his menu options were all so tempting we had a hard time choosing and he was prompt and timely the day of the event. We started with the most amazing grazing board I've truly ever seen and then his entree and sides spread was over the top in the absolute best way. But the star of the show was the ice cream sundae bar for dessert featuring homemade chocolate sauce, fresh fruit, dozens of toppings and a few fun surprises that knocked our socks off (I won't ruin for any future clients). I cannot recommend Chef Nathan and Plates by Payne enough. He is a must book - I promise you won't be sorry! Kate S

A

Alexa

July 2025 • Other Party

Plates by Payne catered my bridal shower, and wow — they absolutely crushed it. The food was incredible (seriously, people are still raving about it, especially the romesco sauce) and everything looked as good as it tasted. The team was super friendly, professional, and made the whole experience so easy. Nathan put together a delicious menu of food that complied with my dietary restrictions and during the event Rachel was always there with a friendly smile, refilling mimosas before we even had a chance to realize we needed a refill. They handled everything with such care and made my guests and I feel totally taken care of from start to finish. And they nailed the lavender shortbread cookie I made a special request for. Nathan even made a few in the shape of the first letter of my name as take away gifts for my guests. And the best part? We actually got to relax and enjoy the party without worrying about a thing. They even cleaned up the kitchen before they left. If you’re hosting any kind of event and want to impress your guests without the stress, Plates by Payne is the way to go!

DE

Dana E.

July 2025 • Bachelorette Party

Chef Nathan was an excellent choice for our private dinner at a short-term rental in La Jolla! Nathan and his team pulled off a great, multi-course plated dinner for our bachelorette group of seven. The theme was "off the market" and the menu matched that perfectly. Amazing produce, beautiful presentation. Nathan was so helpful during the menu development, suggesting surf and turf for our entree, which was an epic surprise for the bride. We really appreciated the lengths they went to source the fish. We were a persnickety group with many preferences and restrictions, and the team made a delicious low-gluten, dairy-free, soy-free meal that accommodated pescatarians and omnivores alike. On top of all of that, Nathan prepared two mocktail bases (fruit purees and herbal simple syrups) for us to mix ourselves the following morning for an 'elixir bar.' YUM. We initially said that we'd do the tablescape, but the Plates by Payne team swooped in and did it all for us. The dinner service was attentive and seamless so I could simply spend the evening celebrating with friends. Our airbnb kitchen was tiiiny, but this dinner was a HUGE win.

KM

Katie M.

March 2025 • Birthday Party

Do not hesitate to hire Nathan and his team for your next event. We hired Nathan for a birthday dinner. His follow through and attention throughout the process was excellent. He delivered a lavish celebratory meal for 11 guests. The food and service were perfect. Nathan and our server Rachel created a magical night for our guests. I look forward to hiring him again, treat yourself, hire Plates by Payne.

K

Katie

March 2025 • Birthday Party

Nathan is a talented chef, good communicator and excellent service provider. We hired Plates by Payne to cook for a birthday dinner in our home. From first contact to the day after the event, Nathan was attentive, timely and thorough. Nathan worked with us to create a fun and celebratory menu for the party, and he delivered. The food was creative, bright and delicious. The service was impeccable. We hosted an upscale lavish dinner party and did not lift a finger. Nathan and our server Rachel created a really magical night for our guests. I strongly recommend hiring Plates by Payne for your next event.

H

Helen

March 2025 • Birthday Party

Thank you Nathan for an amazing dinner for our friend's birthday. We thoroughly enjoyed each and every course you prepared for dinner. Brunch the next day was fabulous as well! We are still enjoying our left-overs. I am happy to recommend you and Kaitlin to anyone in the San Diego area.

J

Julia

March 2025 • Birthday Party

What fabulously delicious dinner and brunch. Thanks for answering our questions and being a delightful human being.

R

Rachael

January 2025 • Other Party

Nathan provided a fantastic Spanish/Tapas meal for our team of 5 in our Airbnb. From start to finish, his culinary skills and service were top-notch. The flavors were authentic, and the overall experience exceeded our expectations. Highly recommended for a delightful and hassle-free dining experience.

W

Winn

October 2024 • Bachelor Party

We used Plates By Payne for a group weekend away. Was blown away by the dedication and attention to detail. Presentation, taste, and accommodating preferences of the group were top notch. Plus, they left the kitchen immaculately clean! Felt like we were at a high end restaurant. Thanks Nathan!

S

Stewart

October 2024 • Bachelor Party

WOW! Book Chef Payne now! Every year, our group of 10 does an annual retreat where we hire a chef over 2 or 3 days to provide dinners. Chef Payne is insane - he's the whole package - everything from presentation to printed menus and flowers. Most importantly, the flavorful and filling set of meals and desserts. And maybe more specifically, the creative mix of flavors he and his team provided was exquisite! The investment for us is fully realized as they served, bussed, and cleaned up after dinner, allowing our group to connect fully and be with each other. Worth every penny - Book him now! Thank you so much Nathan!

M

Michael

October 2024 • Bachelor Party

Professional, attentive, and innovative. If your desire is to have a special night and experience new flavors, look no further than chef Payne

S

Sean

October 2024 • Bachelor Party

We loved the quality of the food and the excellent service of Chef Payne. We have a group of 10, and he hit a home run serving us dinner 2 nights in a row. Him and his staff are extremely attentive to the needs of every person in our group and any dietary restrictions. Can not recommend him highly enough.

C

Carolyn

April 2024 • Birthday Party

Chef Payne totally crushed it for my husband's 50th birthday dinner party! From the start, he helped to create a thoughtful menu that catered to the likes of the guests. He and his team were professional, served amazingly delicious food, and left the space cleaner than how they found it. Can't wait to do it again!

Check Availability

Book Your Experience

Family-Style Dining Experience

Starting at$115per person

3hr

  • Choose from our curated seasonal menu featuring fresh, high-quality ingredients.

  • Personalized menus available to meet all dietary needs. *Subject to additional grocery costs

  • Ideal for groups of 8-50 guests, ensuring a seamless dining experience.

  • Enjoy a family-style or buffet service tailored to your event.

  • Kid-friendly options available to accommodate all ages.

  • Designed for effortless group gatherings, so you can relax and enjoy quality time with your guests.

  • A Server is provided for parties of 8 or more.

Multi-Course Plated Dining Experience

Starting at$145per person

3hr

  • Custom-curated menu tailored to your unique tastes and preferences. *Subject to additional grocery costs

  • Ideal for intimate gatherings of 6-20 guests, creating a cozy, memorable atmosphere.

  • Professionally printed menus for a sophisticated touch.

  • Elegant table settings and decor are available to enhance your dining experience.

  • Designed to provide an unforgettable and seamless event experience.

  • A Server is provided for parties of 8 or more.

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