The night before the wedding should be relaxed, social and fun. A paella rehearsal dinner from Real Paella Catering is exactly that: guests gather around the paella pan while it cooks, there is plenty for seconds, and nobody is stuck waiting at a table. We cater rehearsal dinners and welcome parties across North Florida, at venues, rental houses, parks and backyards.
Why paella works for rehearsal dinners
- Brings everyone together. Both families and out-of-town guests mingle around the cooking, which breaks the ice.
- Easy on the hosts. We bring everything and need no kitchen, water or electricity, just a flat outdoor area of at least 10′ x 10′ (more for larger parties) and truck access.
- Feeds a crowd generously. One paella pan, seconds for everyone, and leftovers stay with you.
- Small groups welcome. Within about an hour of Tallahassee our minimum is just 15 guests; farther away it is 50.
- Everyone can eat. Naturally gluten-free paella, a vegan option, and allergy accommodations.
A popular rehearsal dinner menu
Paella mixta or a mix of seafood and vegan paella, Spanish salad, tapas and sangria. Add dessert, licensed bartending and live flamenco or classical guitar for a complete evening. See the catering menu.
How it works
We arrive about 2 hours before dinner, set up our pans and a tent, and cook while your guests arrive. We serve straight from the pan or plate it to the tables with servers. If cooking on-site is not possible, we cook nearby and deliver it fresh, ready to warm and serve. Full details on how it works.
What families say
“The Real Paella company was perfect for our Rehearsal dinner in Santa Rosa beach! The paella was exceptional and a BIG hit with our guests! The service was professional and efficient! Will definitely book the Real Paella company again!”
Real Paella rehearsal dinner client
“We used real paella for our rehearsal dinner and they knocked it out of the park. They showed up on time with everything they needed. They are very personable and friendly. I can emphasize how they practice proper food safety and are very clean. The food, was absolutely fantastic.”
Real Paella rehearsal dinner client
“We used them for a Welcome Party the Night before our sons wedding. They came early set up and even brought plates and utensils. Everyone enjoyed watching Juan make the Paella and the smell was amazing! After everyone was served they put the remaining Paella in containers and cleaned up the area.”
Real Paella welcome party client
Rehearsal dinner venues we’ve catered
We have catered rehearsal dinners at Dorothy B. Oven Park in Tallahassee, Pebble Hill Plantation in Thomasville and The Chapel of 30A. Read about a rehearsal dinner in Santa Rosa Beach.
Where we cater rehearsal dinners
All of North Florida, including Tallahassee, Thomasville, Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Gainesville, Pensacola, Destin and 30A, Panama City and Apalachicola.
Rehearsal dinner questions
Can you cook at a rental house or private home?
Yes, as long as there is a flat outdoor area of at least 10′ x 10′ (more for larger parties) and direct access for our truck and trailer.
Can you cater both the rehearsal dinner and the wedding?
Yes, with a different menu each night if you like. Mention both dates when you request your quote.
How long does it take?
About 2 hours from setup until we are ready to serve.
Do you provide plates and utensils?
Yes, on request: compostable plates, napkins and utensils, or porcelain plates and stainless steel forks for an additional charge.
Planning the big day too? See our wedding catering.