one of a kind private dining experiences

Local food inspired by coastal living

The Venusian Plate was born from a deep love of coastal living and the beauty of gathering around thoughtfully prepared food. Rooted in locally sourced ingredients and inspired by the abundance of California’s Central Coast, we create dining experiences that feel vibrant, seasonal, and entirely unique to each occasion. No two gatherings are ever the same, and we believe no two meals should be either.

Inspired by long sunset dinners that turn into lingering evenings, sunny days spent in the surf, wine glasses that never empty, and a deep appreciation for all things California, The Venusian Plate blends refined cuisine with warmth, ease, and intentional hospitality.

To be Venusian is to be bountiful, generous, graceful, joyful, and radiant. It is an appreciation for beauty not as excess, but as a way of honoring life itself — through nourishing meals, meaningful connection, thoughtful details, and the simple pleasure of sharing food with others. Our approach is rooted in abundance, seasonality, and creating experiences that feel both elevated and deeply welcoming.

Private Dining experiences

Thoughtfully curated private dining experiences designed to bring people together through beautiful food, warm hospitality, and intentional atmosphere. Each menu is custom-built around the season, the setting, and the occasion itself — whether it’s an intimate dinner party, a celebratory gathering, a retreat weekend, or a slow evening shared among friends.

Inspired by California’s coastal abundance, our menus highlight vibrant produce, fresh seafood, thoughtfully sourced meats, and ingredients at their seasonal peak. Every experience includes menu planning, sourcing, preparation, on-site cooking, presentation, and kitchen clean-up, allowing guests to fully relax into the experience.

Catering

Seasonal catering rooted in abundance, artistry, and connection.

The Venusian Plate offers elevated catering for weddings, retreats, brand events, wellness gatherings, celebrations, and intimate events throughout Santa Cruz and the Central Coast. Our approach blends refined presentation with a relaxed California sensibility — abundant tables, fresh ingredients, thoughtful details, and meals designed to feel both nourishing and memorable.

From colorful grazing tables and family-style dinners to canapés and dessert petit fours, every gathering is tailored specifically to the client and the atmosphere they hope to create.

weekly meal prep

Chef-prepared meals designed to bring ease, nourishment, and beauty into everyday life.

Our meal preparation services are tailored to your tastes, dietary preferences, and lifestyle needs while emphasizing fresh seasonal ingredients and balanced, satisfying meals. Inspired by the rhythms of coastal California living, these meals are intended to help clients feel nourished without sacrificing flavor, quality, or experience.

Ideal for busy professionals, families, wellness-focused lifestyles, postpartum support, and anyone seeking elevated everyday meals prepared with care.

Serving the santa cruz area

  • carliparisi@gmail.com

    (760) 410- 3437

  • $50 an hour + the cost of groceries for weekly meal prep services

    Starting at $175 per person for 4 course private dining services

Contact for a quote and let’s start creating!