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2011 First Crush Charity Gala Shines at Tempe Center for the Arts

Santa Barbara Catering Company catered the 2011 First Crush Charity Gala on Friday, October 21, 2011 at Tempe Center for the Arts.   Lauren Guthrie, President of the Tempe Community Action Agency Board, and Director of Sales & Event Production at Santa Barbara Catering Company had this to say about the successful fundraising event “Santa Barbara Catering is thrilled to be a Sponsor of TCAA’s First Crush Gala. This fabulous event raises valuable funds supporting the great work TCAA does in our community, and helping thousands of families every year!”

The profitable event drew over 250 attendees, and raised over $41,000 in funding for programs that help children, seniors, homeless individuals and working-poor families in Tempe.

Lobby

North Patio

The festive setting at Tempe Center for the Arts allowed guests to mingle and dine inside the Lobby, and outdoors on the North Patio beside the sparkling Reflecting Pool.  The views of the newly-opened, brilliantly-blue Tempe Town Lake Pedestrian Bridge made the perfect backdrop to showcase this event.

Tempe Town Lake Pedestrian Bridge

Music was provided by renowned musician Alice Tatum and her Jazz band.

Alice Tatum Jazz Band

Guests were delighted with the menu featuring four food stations with ingredients inspired by Native American, Mexican and Southwestern cuisine, as well as a focus on local Arizona ingredients. Guests enjoyed:

- Pork, Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas made Tableside
- Dos Equis-Braised Beef Short Ribs and Poblano Whipped Potatoes Topped with Baby Arugula and a Dollop of Mexican Crèma

Sautéed Sweet Mexican Shrimp with Smoked Tomato Grits

- Sautéed Sweet Mexican Shrimp Served atop Smoked Tomato Grits and Petite Cilantro

Nopales Fritters with Chipotle Aioli

- Nopales (Cactus) Fritters Topped with Chipotle Aioli
- Sweet Potato & Green Chili Tamales with Ancho Braised Pork
- Sweet Corn Tamales with Queso Fresco
- Grilled Salmon Skewers with Lavender Butter Sauce
- Grilled Vegetable Platter, Finished With a Honey Glaze
- Local Tepary Bean Purée with Grilled Breads

Butternut Squash Soup Sips with Shredded Beef Empanadas

- Butternut Squash Soup Sips presented in Espresso Cups and Topped with Toasted Coriander and Crème Fraîche, and served with Shredded Beef Empanadas
- Local Citrus Fruit Salad including Tangerines, Tangelos, Oranges,
Grapefruit and Blood Oranges

Pecan, Brown Sugar and Sweet Potato Empanadas

Southwestern Dessert Minis:
- Pecan, Brown Sugar, and Sweet Potato Empanadas
- “Farmer’s Cheese” Organic Cheesecake Bites
- Tres Leches
- Caramel Pot De Crème
- Local-Date Cake

A very special thanks to the vendors who contributed to this event:

Action Wine
Alice Tatum Jazz Band
Aztec Specialty Produce
European Imports, Ltd.
Four Peaks Brewery
Pro Em Professional Event Management
Shamrock Foods

For information about being a First Crush Event Sponsor or volunteering at the Tempe Community Action Agency:

Tempe Community Action Agency (TCAA)
2150 E. Orange Street, Tempe, Arizona 85281
Telephone: 480 350 5822
bethf@tempeaction.org
www.tempeaction.org

Posted in Charity Involvement, Community, Events, Tempe Center for the Arts |

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Two Art Galleries Equal a Memorable Urban Garden Wedding

“Modern Twist on a Garden Wedding” was the theme of a festive, floral-inspired
wedding held last month at two separate art galleries in Phoenix, all seamlessly
catered by Santa Barbara Catering Company.

The festivities began at the historical 1918-built Bentley Projects, a 22,000
square-foot venue with soaring bow-trussed ceilings and clerestory windows
located in downtown Phoenix. The bride and groom were married in front of a
custom backdrop featuring a Manzanita Tree, decorated with gorgeous hand-
selected flowers.

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After the ceremony, guests noshed on:

Raw Seasonal Vegetable Shooters Served with Pesto Sauce

Edible Porcelain Spoons filled with Spicy Tuna Tartare, Micro Arugula and Wasabi Aioli

Mini Panini’s served on a Baguette with Prosciutto, Soprassata and Fontina Cheese

Tempura Squash Blossoms Filled with Herbed Goat Cheese and Pine Nuts in a Broth of Roasted Tomato Sauce

Plus, an exquisite Fruit and Cheese display.

Favorite Mocktails included a Lemon-Mint Spritzer topped off with a floating candied orange chip.

And a Hand Squeezed Citrus Mintade Garnished with a Sweet Glazed Fresh Pansy Flower.

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Guests were then shuttled up the street to the Phoenix Art Museum for the reception.  As they entered the museum, they were greeted by a floral “wall” and uniquely showcased seating assignments nestled in fresh orchids.

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Upon entering the Great Hall, guests were wowed by decked out twinkling white-lit trees, elegant tall floral bouquets, an array of vintage books, and modern leather lounge furniture surrounding an oversized dance floor.

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The happy bride and groom took their turn on the dance floor enjoying their first dance as a newly married couple.  Guests then enjoyed their first course:

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A Favorite of Breanne & Chris; the Deconstructed Chopped Salad was Served with a shot of House Made Italian Vinaigrette.

Toasts were made, stories were shared, and four unique “small plate” food stations opened for the main course, giving guests the chance to sample favorites of the happy couple as they made their way around the Great Hall.

Herb Roasted Chicken Breast Served with Fingerling Potatoes and Sautéed Seasonal Vegetables in a Natural Jus

Open Faced Ravioli made with Herbed Semolina Pasta, Sautéed Spring Vegetables, Goat Cheese, Oven Dried Tomatoes and Arugula Pesto Sauce

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Tenderloin of Beef with Whipped Potatoes and Wild Mushroom Sauce

Seasonal Station
Creamed Corn
Herbed Summer Risotto
Roasted Tomatoes
Grilled Asparagus with Sea Salt and Cracked Pepper
Seasoned Sweet Potato Spears
Sautéed Seasonal Vegetables with Olive Oil and Fresh Garlic

Guests ended the meal by dining on wedding cake, Mini Pies and of course a Chocolate Dipping Sauce for Petite Churros

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The celebration continued throughout the evening with dancing and photo booth pictures (with wild props!) captured for cherished memories of the beautiful event.

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This fabulous wedding was made possible by the dedication and talents of many vendors, including:

Wedding Coordinator & Event Décor:  Victoria Canada Weddings &  Events
Ceremony Venue:  Bentley Projects
Reception Venue:  Phoenix Art Museum
Florist:  Petal Pusher
Photography:  Melissa Jill Photography
Linens:  Wildflower Linen
Make-up:  Corinna Cooke
Cake:  Sedona Cake Couture
Calligraphy:  Jennifer Schmitt Calligraphy
Programs:  Celebrations in Paper
Ceremony Music:  String Serenade
DJ: Desert House Productions
Guest Transportation;  Ollie the Trolley
Rentals:  Classic Party Rentals
Videographer:  Bright Bokeh
Catering:  Santa Barbara Catering Company

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Posted in Community, Events, Phoenix Art Museum, Venues |

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Agave on the Rocks

We were happy to be invited to join the Agave on the Rocks Event again this year at the Desert Botanical Garden. The 2011 theme was Southwestern and Mexican dishes. Guests were greeted with specialty margaritas as they entered and visited all of the different booths. Everyone brushed up on their salsa dancing skills with Latin-inspired music and a special performance by Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers. We loved coming up with our booth’s concept and also debuted some of our new marketing strategies!

Agave on the Rocks
This year’s station featured stone ground corn hotcakes topped with spicy white bean dip, adobe pulled pork and roasted corn relish. Guests watched on as our chef’s flipped hotcakes and topped them off to order.

Agave on the Rocks
The SBCC team got into the spirit wearing custom made menu t-shirts that read “Hotcakes!!!” and “Chocolate, mmmm” as they passed out food to the 1400 attendees. (From left to right, Jake, Nicole, Melissan, Steve)

Agave on the Rocks
Amazing seasonal and local vegetable arrangements were the perfect touch to our station this year. Thank you to Tamara Noack from Petal Pushers for donating the beautiful arrangements.

Produce was locally sourced from Mclendon’s Select Farmers Market and handpicked by our owner, Pat. We were even able to use the produce after the event!

Agave on the Rocks
Voted “#1 Caterer” By Ranking Arizona, there were lots of brochures and goodies for guests to read as they awaited their delicious food.

Agave on the Rocks
You have never seen anything like this before! Steve and Jake took turns passing out chocolate Churros while wearing this custom “balloon backpack” where a giant illuminated balloon seemed to magically float above the guests.

Agave on the Rocks
People got a riot out of chasing down the “Churro Men” with the big SBCC logo balloon lighting the sky wherever they went.

Posted in Community, Events, Venues |

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SANTA BARBARA CATERING COMPANY HOSTS SULLIVAN UNIVERSITY’S CULINARY STUDENTS AT THE FARM AT SOUTH MOUNTAIN

The Farm at South Mountain

Over 70 students from Sullivan University’s Culinary Arts, Baking & Pastry Arts programs were in town last month, and were fortunate to spend a half-day touring South Phoenix’s historical Farm at South Mountain.  The Kentucky based University students got to talk with the property’s business owners about the impact of sustainability in an urban community.

When Pat Christofolo, owner of Santa Barbara Catering Company, and operator of The Farm at South Mountain, learned the students were visiting the area, she saw the opportunity to help them discover more about urban agriculture, what it takes to manage a small family farm, and how chefs support farm-to-table locally produced products.

The sunny afternoon began with The Farm’s owner, Wayne Smith, sharing the story of how The Farm at South Mountain, 32nd Street and Southern, Phoenix, was originally developed.  The students learned that the 12-acre organic, sustainable oasis sitting in the heart of Phoenix was first conceived by Dwight Heard, benefactor of the famous Heard Museum, in the 1920’s.  Smith shared that Heard, a real estate investor, had the vision to subdivide the property into two-acre parcels which he sold for $1,150 each.  With each purchase, the new owners received a cow and fifty chickens to provide sustenance and continual food sources.  Smith continues to preserve the rural tranquility and vision of sustainability by offering independently owned small businesses the ability to contribute to the cultural, educational, restorative and economic environment of this historic property.

A buffet lunch, created by The Farm Kitchen (owned by Santa Barbara Catering Company), was served on the patio of Morning Glory Café.  Delicious local, seasonal fare was featured on the menu.

Sullivan Students at The Farm at South Mountain

The Farm at South Mountain
                              Seasonal Sandwiches

The Farm at South Mountain
                              Roasted Sweet Potato Salad

The students were delighted to hear from Chef Greg LaPrad, Executive Chef at Quiessence Restaurant. Chef Greg is well recognized for his culinary philosophy dedicated to serving the best food products that Arizona has to offer. He uses traditional culinary techniques in his cuisine, such as creating handmade charcuterie, and focusing on daily menu creations inspired by the season’s best products. His menu includes items from his favorite suppliers of Arizona wines, olives, pork, beef and produce. He talked about the challenges involved with committing to this practice while operating his successful restaurant.

The Farm at South Mountain

Phoenix’s Most Famous Farmer, Maya Dailey, took the students on a tour of her beautiful gardens and discussed the steps she takes to develop specialty produce products to meet the desires of local Phoenix chefs, who now support her unique garden varietals on their menus.

The Farm at South Mountain

The students wrapped up the afternoon by touring the Farm’s other small businesses including Square Food Academy, The Artists Studio, The Retreat and the Cactus Greenhouse.

The Farm at South Mountain

Summing up the afternoon to a fellow attendee, we overheard one of the culinary student’s share his take on the day’s activities. “What a great session! I have a much better understanding of the connection to what I create in the kitchen to the links between farming, food, health and the local economy.”

The Farm at South Mountain was delighted to offer this unique experience to help educate tomorrow’s future chefs and culinary leaders about the importance of sustainability practices.

Posted in Community, Events, The Farm at South Mountain |

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Paris James is “Singin’ the Blues” Every Month at The Urban Barn

“Well, I’ve never felt more like singin’ the blues” was the beginning words to the No. 1 chart hit written back in 1956 performed by Guy Mitchell.  This song was on the top of the charts for thirteen straight weeks and become even more popular when Marty Robbins recorded a similar version that same year.

For the past two months, no one is singin’ the blues at The House at Secret Garden (Santa Barbara Catering Company’s sister property) since it started “Blues in the Barn,” a no cover charge event held every first Wednesday of the month, from 6-9 PM.  Located in the property’s rustic Urban Barn, Paris James has been rockin the “house”, or should we say “barn” down, every month while patrons snack on pork sliders, cheese platters, and discounted bottles of wine while listening to the soulful sounds of Phoenix’s favorite bluesician.

Due to the popularity of the event, reservations are not accepted and seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis in The Urban Barn.

The January performance was filled to capacity ten minutes after the doors opened.  When a few guests found themselves arriving to late for a seat in the barn, they elected to enjoy dinner in The House prior to joining in on the musical festivities later that evening.

According to Co-owner Pat Christofolo, “Once the weather turns warmer, The House plans on expanding our Blues night onto the grounds surrounding the barn.  We’re preparing for next month’s event now, and making plans to add additional seating so more guests can enjoy Paris’ great country-blues music.”

Details:
First Wednesday’s of the Month
6-9 PM
The Urban Barn
(Located behind the House at Secret Garden)
2501 E. Baseline Road
Phoenix, AZ 85042
602.243.8539
www.houseatsecretgarden
info@houseatsecretgarden

Posted in Events, Paris James, The House at Secret Garden, The Urban Barn, Venues |

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We’re Sharing a Secret With You…

Our sister company, The House at Secret Garden, has been making headlines with its scenic dining areas, creative drinks and eclectic dishes. With recent articles in The Arizona Republic, Arizona Foothills Magazine and a review by local restaurant critic, Michele Laudig of Phoenix New Times, curious diners have made their way to The House to experience what all the talk is about.

Laudig shared her thoughts on some of the heavier menu items with her readers: “I inhaled the housemade pasta one night, an excellent butternut squash ravioli with port demi-glace. The filling was like edible velvet. Almost as sensual was a heap of creamy Anson Mills grits topped with sautéed shrimp and sweet corn, with a hint of serrano chile kick.”

For those of you who think a lunch visit would be best, Laudig had this to say: “Both the grilled romaine (lightly smoky bunches of lettuce topped with feta and pickled red onions — enough to eat as an entrée) and the seasonal salad (mixed greens tossed with mint, Italian parsley, carrot, shaved fennel, paper-thin slices of watermelon radish, pistachios, and goat cheese) were slicked with delicately balanced vinaigrette that enhanced the stellar, just-picked tenderness of the greens. Consider me impressed.”

And impressed you will be when visiting the historic Spanish-style mansion with gigantic carob tree and candle lit patio for happy hour, dinner date or impressive business lunch.

To view the entire review visit: http://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/2010-12-09/restaurants/pat-christofolo-s-the-house-at-secret-garden-makes-you-feel-at-home/

Posted in The House at Secret Garden, The Urban Barn, Venues |

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Pat Christofolo Wins Service in Action Award

Each year the Tempe Community Action Agency (TCAA) gives the Barbara Norton Service in Action Award to one outstanding individual who gives with his or her heart and goes above and beyond the call of duty to address the needs of others in our community. Here at Santa Barbara Catering, we are honored that our owner, Pat Christofolo received this year’s award.

The TCAA has formed many programs to assist low-income and fixed-income families in the community.  They have recognized Pat for her continual advocacy and contribution to the programs, people and areas of need in the city of Tempe.

Every year, TCAA hosts a fundraiser called the First Crush Charity Gala with gourmet food stations for guests, live music and silent auction. Pat graciously donates the food, linens, and decor every year for the fundraiser.  She also assists with event coordination, securing a full donation of tables, chairs, lighting and other rentals for the event. Additionally, Santa Barbara Catering donates food each year to the I-HELP (Interfaith Homeless Emergency Lodging Program) program through TCAA for the homeless.  This program strives to provide lodging and comfort for those without shelter and supplies this to an average of 30 homeless people a night, seven nights a week. Pat has been a major contributor to this program.

In addition to donating food to TCAA, Pat was president of the board of the Tempe Community Action Agency. Her efforts have been an integral part of the TCAA, as well as the Tempe community in general.

Please join us in congratulating Pat.  It is an honor to work with her. She is truly deserving of such a special award.

Posted in Awards, Charity Involvement, Community |

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Banner Ironwood Hospital Grand Opening Event

Santa Barbara Catering Company has once again been chosen by Banner Hospitals to be the catering company for Banner’s grand opening event for their newest hospital.  Banner Ironwood is a state-of-the-art facility located in gorgeous Queen Creek, Arizona and serving many residents all around the East Valley.  Banner Ironwood is not only a full service medical facility but features a calming modern design, making it the premier healthcare facility in Queen Creek.

Serving over 3000 people for this event, Santa Barbara Catering Company has proven itself once again to be the Valley’s premier catering company. This is the second year in a row that Banner Hospitals has selected Santa Barbara.  This event was almost a daily occurrence in the month of October, and every day we made sure to create a new and exciting experience for our guests.  We are grateful for the main tent that Tri Rentals donated which was set up in the parking lot to help accommodate many of the events. We appreciate their support.

Below is the outstanding menu, created for 3000 people at the Banner Ironwood event, to both stimulate all palates and cater to the health conscious.

Light & Fresh, Dips & Chips
Pita Crisps, Tortilla Chips, Garlic Toast Rounds
and Bountiful Display of Seasonal Raw Vegetables
Served with Roasted Garlic Hummus, Red Pepper Hummus,
Garden Vegetable Salsa and Sun Dried Tomato Dip

The Great American Chili Cook-Off
Light House Made Turkey Chili Slow Cooked and Seasoned to Perfection
Served with Crusty Breads
Guests to Top it off with Scallions and Cheddar Cheese for a Little Extra Kick

Custom Yogurt Parfaits
The Ice Cream Sundae for Health Nuts
Start with Your Favorite Flavor of Yogurt
And Top it off with Your Choice of
Chopped Nuts, Coconut, Granola, and Diced Fresh Fruit

Sensational!
Chef’s Choice of Assorted Cookies and Brownies Bites
Sweet, Sweet, Sweet….

October was an extremely busy month for Santa Barbara Catering, with the major theme for all of the Banner events focused on health conscious food choices, prepared right on site.  Not only did Santa Barbara cater the grand opening of the new hospital, but they also catered an employee family night for over 700 people.  Orientation and team building was another successful event with over 400 people to serve; and another was the dedication which hosted over 500 people.  Along with these large events, there were also smaller luncheons and meetings that were catered.  Leave it to Santa Barbara Catering to take on any size event and have everyone talking about the top quality service and cuisine for years to come.

Posted in Community, Corporate Party, Events |

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2010 Design Awards for AIA Arizona

The Arizona chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA Arizona) held its 2010 AIA Arizona Design Awards Ceremony and annual gala in September at the Phoenix Art Museum. Before the ceremony began, guests gathered in the Great Hall to relax, enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeurves while discussing the local architecture industry.

The event matched the sleek, modern interior of the museum with spectacular black, sliver and moss colored linens with glowing wax vessel candle centerpieces. Black bookcases were transformed into custom food “bars” where uniformed chefs served small-plate offerings. Station dishes were displayed on a chalkboard as “specials of the day.” The items that guests could choose from were as follows:

Chicken & Waffles

A unique combination – thin Strips of Homemade Waffles & Fried Chicken Strips
Drizzled with Maple Syrup

Creamy Roasted Beet Gnocchi

With Shaved Pecorino and Topped with “Baby Bulls Blood” Microgreens

Mini Barbecued Pork Sliders

Slathered in a Spicy Sauce
Topped off with Creamy Coleslaw that creates the perfect crunch

Charred Cherry Tomato Salad

Topped with a Goat Cheese Crostini

Trio of Chilled Soup Shots

These brilliantly-colored soups are served up in Shot Glasses
~ Gazpacho topped with Fresh Crab Meat
~Cantaloupe Soup
~Honeydew Soup

When guests moved into the theater for the awards portion of the evening, the food bars were transformed into dessert bars. After the ceremony ended, attendees indulged in the following bite-sized desserts:

White Chocolate-Pumpkin Spice Truffle “Lollipops”

Caramel & Sea Salt Truffles

Trio of Homemade Marshmallows

Skewered Cubes of Housemade
Vanilla, Chocolate, and Strawberry Marshmallows

Candy “Shots”

White and Milk Chocolate Mousse
Served in Jiggers, Layered and Topped
with Candy Bar Shards… Snickers, Reese’s, & Oreos

This intricate menu was created to complement the prestigious awards given for the high standard architectural designs, plans and construction projects submitted. Congratulations to all the winners at the 2010 AIA Arizona Design Awards.

Posted in Awards, Events, Phoenix Art Museum |

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Picking the food for your event: The best and most important part!

Once a month, we will host a food tasting event for our clients. This event is to showcase seasonal fare as well as current trends for our clients so that they can decide which types of food they would like to include in their menus for their upcoming events.

In August, the tasting was held at the beautiful Tempe Center for the Arts, a venue that we are the exclusive caterer for. The tasting was a perfect opportunity for clients to try a variety of fabulous foods, created on-site by our head chef.

Guests started with classic hors d’oeuvres including our Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus served with Hazelnut Pesto and Tomato Mozzarella Bruschetta on Grilled Rustic Bread.

The entrée section of the tasting was set up buffet style so that guests could choose what would best fit their event. Some of the options for dinner were Goat Cheese and Green Chili Stuffed Chicken Breast, as well as Seared Flank Steak with a Mushroom Demi Glace Sauce. Guests paired their entrees with savory sides such as Creamy Gruyere Potatoes and Roasted Seasonal Vegetables with Olive Oil, Rosemary and Garlic.

Coming to a tasting isn’t only about the food though; it’s a wonderful opportunity to meet your event coordinator as well. Santa Barbara Catering is here to answer your questions and work through additional details of your wedding or event, such as floral or linen ideas.

If you are interested in seeing food presentation photos from past events, we would love to set up a time to meet and show you our photo books!

Posted in Uncategorized |

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