Hello! I'm Darlene, the passionate owner and chef behind Catering by Darlene, where my love for authentic homemade Mexican cuisine comes to life.

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From my earliest memories, the kitchen has always been my sanctuary, a place where creativity and love intertwine. Growing up, I found immense joy in watching people gather around the table, sharing laughter and stories over a home-cooked meal. To me, food has always been more than just nourishment; it is an intricate art form-a way to express affection and bring people together. After years of experimenting with traditional recipes, I decided to share my passion with the Ventura County community. This led to the birth of Catering by Darlene - a dream come true that combines my love for cooking with my desire to create memorable experiences for others.

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I don't adhere to strict measurements or recipes; I embrace spontaneity in the kitchen. A pinch of this and a pinch of that. This intuitive approach allows me to create dishes that are not only delicious but infused with my passion. Somehow, by trusting my instincts, I always find a way to make dishes that taste just right. Each meal becomes a reflection of my emotions, a canvas where flavors blend and evolve. I am drawn to the magic that happens when food is served. It sparks conversations, creates connections, and cultivates cherished memories. Eating together is a creating a moment where we can all pause and appreciate the simple things in life.

I understand that events can be stressful, and my goal is to alleviate some of that burden by taking care of your catering needs. I believe that great food should be paired with great service, and I strive to make each event seamless and enjoyable for my customers and their guests. Over the past year, I have had the pleasure of serving families and businesses throughout Ventura County. The smiles and satisfaction of my customers are what inspire me to keep creating and innovating. My mission is simple - to bring delicious, authentic Mexican flavors to your table while making every moment a little easier, a lot more enjoyable and affordable all at the same time!  

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Darlene Gonzales