Tapping into the Rainier Valley's culinary talent

Rainier Valley offers a multitude of catering opportunities. If you are planning a wedding, office meeting, private party or just want to have some friends over for that last great summer meal, I've listed a few catering options that you can find right here in Rainier Valley. Next time you are looking for a catering option look in your own backyard and find some really friendly, professional caterers that can make an impression at your event.

Private Chef, Inc. is a local Seward Park business that started offering home delivered dinners in 1998. Chef Carole Chancler has expanded her business and now offers boxed lunches, catering and cooking classes. The catering menu offers themed menus like Russian, Italian, Caribbean, French and many more.

Chancler has a degree in food science and nutrition from the University of Washington and has continued to study cooking techniques in many foreign countries to expand her talents. Her husband is a fireman, private caterer and chili cook-off champion in his own right. They live in the Seward Park neighborhood and for years subleased kitchens around Seattle until they found the perfect spot for their business located on Wilson Avenue South. Now they can work, live and play in the same great neighborhood. For more information about Private Chef, check out their website at www.privatechefonlone.com.

Seasoned in Seattle continues their business even though the Sound Transit construction outside their window is in full swing. This local caterer has worked on events large and small. You can arrange the menu and pricing to fit your needs. Their website offers sample menus, pricing, event resources and more.

Co-owner and executive chef Kai Schrade grew up in Germany and has traveled extensively, which brings an international flair to his cuisine. Andy Celli is co-owner and the senior event coordinator at Seasoned in Seattle. Celli has over 16 years experience in the hospitality industry. Both owners live in the Rainier Valley and have been operating their business for the last seven years on Martin Luther King Jr. Way South.

You may have tried their offerings at events by Microsoft, Starbucks, Sound Transit, Boeing or the University of Washington. They have also catered some of the Rainier Chamber luncheons and I know they cater at some of the local elementary schools for special events. Check out their website for more information www.seasonedinseattle.com.

Many residents may remember Chef Naomi Andrade Smith of Villa Victoria Catering from her Madrona retail and deli take out shop. The retail business was closed for a few years, but Smith has resurfaced in the Rainier Valley with her catering business.

Smith and her husband live and work in the Rainier Valley and have brought the business close to home. She is currently retailing some of her products at the Metropolitan Market and rumor has it that she may be opening a retail shop in Rainier Valley in the coming months.

Smith was born and raised in Los Angeles. Her mother was from Michaocan, Mexico and so Smith was immersed in Mexican culture and cuisine throughout her early years. Smith began to travel in Mexico and to study the cultural influences that flavor Mexican cuisine. It is this unique perspective that sets Chef Smith's food apart. Smith has been in business for about eight years, and her followers are very loyal. You can find out more about Villa Victoria Catering at www.villa-victoria.net.

Upcoming Events

The Community Renewal Act is possible legislation that would affect property owners, developers and business owners in the Rainier Valley.

You are invited to two different forums to learn more about the Community Renewal Act and voice your opinion. The Business Breakfast Forum will be held on Sept. 21st from 7:30 - 9 a.m. at the Eritrean Association of Greater Seattle located at 1954 South Massachusetts Street.

The General Public Forum will be held on October 19th at the Rainier Valley Cultural Center located at 3515 South Alaska Street from 6:30 - 8 p.m. For more information contact Angela Tara at 850-6110.

Tiffany Crosby manages the Rainier Chamber of Commerce. She may be reached via editor@sdistrictjournal.com.[[In-content Ad]]