Submit your event / occasion details to see a personalised list of Paella Caterers in Essex available to book instantly.Read more
Best Paella Caterers in Essex
Looking to spice up your next event in Essex? Discover the most delicious Paella Catering options for hire! We’ve got 15 incredible paella caterers in Essex ready to serve up authentic Spanish flavours, from classic seafood and succulent chicken & chorizo to vibrant vegetarian options. Perfect for everything from garden parties and summer weddings at venues like Down Hall Hotel & Spa to corporate gatherings, our caterers bring the fiesta directly to you. Start planning your delicious feast today!
Every paella caterer in this selection has been thoroughly vetted by our team, guaranteeing quality based on their culinary expertise, booking history, and verified client reviews.
The average cost for paella catering is £15 per guest, with the final price depending on your chosen menu, number of guests, and any additional serving requirements.
Our amazing paella caterers across Essex have successfully served 115 events, gathering 46 verified reviews with an outstanding average rating of 4.98*.
4.74(27 reviews)
• 54 bookings
Authentic Spanish Paella Served with Canapes & Salads
Try our delicious and authentic Spanish paella at your next event for a unique experience for your guests. Paella can be 'free from' everything: dairy, gluten, etc. It can also be vegan.
from £14 / person
Why event planners love Poptop
Reviews for Best Paella Caterers in Essex
Read verified reviews from real clients, who booked with Poptop in Essex
S
Sara Andell27 Sep 2022
We cannot recommend Jonathan enough - he cooked us a wonderful sample menu at our house, guided us through. He was so warm and professional. On the day his team were flexible when we ran late and they worked their backsides off to make sure we had a marvellous day. THANK YOU
S
Sian Ayerst-Dyer18 Aug 2022
Richie was so communicative and helpful - not to mention the food being delicious! We had a party of 13 people with vegan and meat eaters and both options were really tasty. Richie was perfectly on time and even offered to bring extra water when we had a water supply issue. Would definitely recommend and book again in the future.
Thank you Richie!
I
Isabelle Potterton25 Jun 2022
Two lovely paelllas. The event was great and the food was good. The price did change due to an increase in gas prices. I think had I been told the final price when looking to book I might have looked elsewhere as it was quite expensive.
J
J Broome18 Dec 2020
We had a few issues with delivers but understandably so with Covid-19 and Christmas. But would most definitely say it was well worth the wait
F
Frankie O'Hanlon10 Aug 2020
Lovely meal for my mum & dad's 25th wedding anniversary. Everyone said how much they enjoyed the food! I couldn't have picked a hotter day for poor Richie to cook in but he soldiered through. Thanks again Richie!
L
louise25 Apr 2019
I booked Crocus for my daughter’s 21st birthday party and they were totally brilliant from start to finish and would recommend them highly. Communication during the planning period was clear and helpful and they went to a lot of trouble to ensure that we had sufficient space and facilities for tent (just power and water). On the night itself they were prompt, extremely friendly and efficient, set up a beautifully festooned tent with a happy birthday light box and most importantly produced the most delicious paella. The guests loved it and best of all they boxed up the leftovers which were devoured at 2am and then enjoyed post clear up - would definitely use them again next time I have the energy to host a party!
We delivered next level parties for exceptional companies
We also did more than 40,000 birthday parties. Probably, including your neighbour’s recent big bash.
Paella Caterers in Essex: A Buyer’s Guide to Big Pans, Big Flavour, Big Smiles
Hiring paella caterers in Essex is one of those decisions that makes you look like you’ve absolutely nailed event planning. It’s theatre and catering rolled into one. Guests gather round, cameras come out, and suddenly dinner becomes part of the entertainment.
Whether you’re planning a wedding on a country estate, a breezy beachside celebration, or a corporate summer do under a marquee, paella brings colour, aroma and a relaxed social vibe that’s hard to beat.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the right paella caterer in Essex, what affects price, how to match food to venue and theme, and how to make the whole booking process smooth and stress free. Grab a metaphorical fork and let’s dig in.
Why Paella Catering Works So Well for Essex Events
Essex is made for this sort of food experience. You’ve got outdoor friendly venues, coastal locations, countryside estates and plenty of marquee parties. Paella fits right in.
It works brilliantly because it’s:
visually impressive and interactive
ideal for outdoor and semi outdoor settings
easy to scale for different guest counts
flexible for dietary needs
relaxed but still special occasion worthy
We’ve seen paella work beautifully at weddings where guests want something more exciting than standard plated meals, at garden parties where hosts want a centrepiece, and at corporate events where networking flows better with informal dining.
Add a summer drinks setup like a sangria bar style service and you’ve got a proper Mediterranean mood going, even if the Essex weather is being “creatively unpredictable”.
Events That Suit Paella Caterers Perfectly
Some food styles are picky about context. Paella is not. It’s the social butterfly of catering. Here’s where it shines brightest.
Weddings
Outdoor weddings in Essex are a natural fit. Paella works especially well for:
rustic and boho weddings
estate and barn venues
marquee receptions
festival style wedding weekends
It’s great for couples who want a relaxed, communal feel rather than formal plated courses. Guests can chat, wander, and go back for seconds without ceremony. Always a popular feature, that bit.
Garden Parties
If you’re hosting at home or at a hired garden venue, paella catering keeps logistics simple and impact high. It’s ideal for:
4.74(27 reviews)
• 54 bookings
Authentic Spanish Paella Cooked in Huge Pans in Front of Your Guests
Try our delicious and authentic Spanish paella at your next event for a unique experience for your guests; paella can be 'free from' everything; dairy, gluten, etc. It can also be vegan
from £10 / person
🎉 New to Poptop
Authentic Spanish Paella Freshly Cooked At Your Event
Bring the vibrant flavours of Spain to your next event. We offer authentic Spanish cuisine, making your event unforgettable with the true flavours of Spain.
from £15 / person
5.0(4 reviews)
• 2 bookings
Incredible Paella Experience
Bring the wow-factor to your event with our paella. Served straight from enormous sizzling pans, our paellas are as spectacular to watch as they are to taste.
from £16 / person
5.0(8 reviews)
• 8 bookings
Mum's Best Paella Recipe Following Spanish Tradition
I worked in the Greenwich market for the last 4 years with my Paella stall. Now I do a market next to St Paul's cathedral and also provide service for any kind of events , festivals, parties
from £18 / person
5.0(1 review)
Festival-Style Paella Stall Bringing the Taste of Spain to You
We prepare and cook all Paellas from scratch on-site, making sure to serve the freshest and most flavourful dishes we can. We truly represent the full flavours of Spain.
from £10 / person
5.0(9 reviews)
• 3 bookings
Fresh Paella Made From Scratch
All of our Paella's are cooked fresh, from scratch in front of you ad your guests y professionally trained Spanish speaking staff. All our Paellas can be curated to your wants & needs!
from £6 / person
5.0(9 reviews)
• 3 bookings
Fresh Paella & Churros Made From Scratch
Founded by my abuela (grandma) in 1973, Spanish cuisine is in our family's blood. Our passion for authentic Spanish churros and paellas is unmatched within the street food industry!
from £8 / person
4.67(3 reviews)
• 4 bookings
100% Authentic Paella Catering According To Traditional Spanish Recipes
We have the most authentic Spanish food in the UK. 100% Spanish people in the team, best quality ingredients, and great service.
from £20 / person
5.0(48 reviews)
• 104 bookings
Big Pan Jambalaya Served Straight from the Pan
Our Big Pan is one of our most popular services. Great for social, business, stag, hen or wedding parties or even just to catch up with family & friends our chefs have got your food covered.
from £21 / person
5.0(48 reviews)
• 104 bookings
Big Pan Paella Catering with a Little Bit of Theatre
Our Big Pan is one of our most popular services. Great for social, business, or wedding parties or even just to catch up with the family our chefs have got your food covered.
from £21 / person
No reviews yet • 3 bookings
Delicious Paella from the Heart of Spain
A mouth-watering food experience that caters to everyone's taste! We provide the perfect evening/night or daytime wedding/party cuisine with a difference!
from £20 / person
5.0(10 reviews)
• 7 bookings
Fresh & Delicous Big Pan Paella
Enhance your special occasion with the most authentic Mediterranean food from our Head chef Silvia Sanchez. We will make sure the event is run perfectly.
from £28 / person
5.0(1 review)
• 1 booking
Catering That Turns Any Event Into A Fiesta Of Flavour
We serve up bold, authentic Spanish and Portuguese cuisine - think sizzling chicken and chorizo paella, vibrant vegan paella, and fiery Portuguese BBQ piri piri chicken.
from £13 / person
Paella Caterers spotlight 🌟
Authentic Paella Feast For Your Event
5.0(2 reviews)
Immerse your guests in the vibrant flavours of Spain with our authentic Paella Feast, crafted by our talented Spanish chef. This menu is designed to bring the essence of Spain to your special day, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for family and friends to share in the joy of your celebration. With a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, each plate is a testament to quality and tradition.
About supplier
Our chosen core menus feature an array of delectable dishes inspired by global street food traditions, crafted with the freshest ingredients. At the core of our catering offerings is our innovative street food van, which brings a world of culinary delights directly to your event.
from £18 / person
Instant Quote
Explore thousands of party experiences with live pricing & availability for all our catalogue.
Booking Protection
Book with peace of mind and benefit from booking protection and money-back guarantee.
Curated suppliers
All Poptop’s suppliers are rigorously vetted and approved by our team of party experts, ensuring you book the very best.
One main cooking station, fresh food prepared on site, and minimal kitchen dependency. Your oven can enjoy the day off.
Corporate Events
Corporate summer events and team celebrations benefit from food that’s quick to serve and easy to enjoy standing or seated. Paella suits:
staff parties
client hospitality events
product launches
company fun days
It feels premium without being stiff. That’s a sweet spot for business events.
Matching Paella Catering to Essex Venues
Essex gives you a wide mix of venue styles, and paella caterers are generally quite adaptable. Still, it helps to think about setup needs early.
Country Estates and Rural Venues
These are perfect for live paella cooking. There’s usually:
good outdoor space
ventilation
flexible layouts
power access nearby
Ask your caterer what footprint they need for their cooking station and serving area. Most are well practised at working neatly and safely in heritage style locations.
Beachside and Coastal Spots
Coastal Essex events plus paella is almost too on theme. In a good way. Check in advance:
wind exposure
ground surface
shelter options
permit requirements
Professional caterers are used to working with the elements, but a sheltered cooking spot makes everyone happier, including the rice.
Marquees
Marquee events and paella are a classic pairing. Just confirm:
whether cooking is inside or just outside the marquee
ventilation rules
fire safety requirements
distance to guest dining area
A well run paella station just outside the marquee entrance often works perfectly and adds to the atmosphere.
Choosing the Right Paella Style and Menu
Not all paella menus are identical. A good Essex paella caterer will offer options and customisation. Common menu directions include:
seafood heavy paella
mixed meat and seafood
chicken and chorizo
vegetarian and vegan versions
gluten free friendly options
Many caterers can run two pans at once, for example one classic mixed paella and one vegetarian version. That keeps everyone happy and avoids awkward plate swapping. Ask about:
portion sizes
side dishes and salads
bread and extras
dessert add ons
Some teams offer full themed packages with Mediterranean style sides, which can round out your menu nicely.
What Affects the Cost of Paella Catering in Essex
Most paella catering in Essex typically lands in the £14 to £22+ per guest range, depending on several factors. The biggest price drivers are:
guest count
ingredient quality and seafood content
menu variety
travel distance
service duration
additional staffing
Seafood rich menus with premium ingredients will sit at the higher end. Simpler chicken and chorizo or vegetarian menus are often more budget friendly.
Also check what’s included. Some quotes cover:
on site cooking
serving staff
disposable or reusable tableware
setup and pack down
Others price those separately. Always worth clarifying so there are no surprises later.
Questions We Always Recommend Asking Caterers
A quick checklist saves a lot of back and forth later. Ask your paella caterer:
how many events like mine have you catered
how much space do you need to set up
what are your power or fuel requirements
how long does cooking and service take
can you cater for dietary needs
what happens if weather turns bad
what is included in the per guest price
Experienced suppliers answer these quickly and clearly. That’s usually a good sign you’re in safe hands.
Making Booking Simple and Stress Free
This is where using a platform like Poptop makes life easier, especially if you’re juggling venue, entertainment and food at the same time. Instead of chasing multiple suppliers across different sites, you can line things up in one place and move quickly.
Friendly, Guest Focused Suppliers
You’re not just hiring someone to cook rice in a large pan. You’re hiring people who interact with your guests all day. The best suppliers bring warmth, humour and proper hospitality energy. It turns catering into part of the experience, not just background logistics.
Plan Your Party in Minutes, Not Days
Your time is valuable. With instant, all inclusive pricing and fast responses, you can compare options and make decisions quickly without endless quote chasing. Less admin, more progress. We like that ratio.
An Event That’s Uniquely Yours
Strong suppliers tailor their menus and service to your needs. Dietary adjustments, theme tweaks and service style changes are all on the table. That flexibility turns a standard catering job into a personal experience that actually reflects your event.
Relax and Plan Without the Anxiety
Clear communication and regular updates make a huge difference. When you know what’s confirmed and what’s happening next, you can stop worrying and start looking forward to the day itself. That’s how planning should feel.
Everything in One Convenient Place
Food is just one part of the puzzle. You might also be lining up:
entertainment
drinks services
furniture hire
specialty extras
Having everything accessible together saves time and reduces planning friction.
Book With Confidence and Security
Carefully vetted suppliers and booking protection mean you’re not taking risks in the dark. If an issue appears, you’re supported and alternatives are arranged. Add a money back guarantee into the mix and you can book with proper confidence.
Theme Ideas: Summer Paella and Sangria Style Events
If you want to lean into the paella concept, build a light theme around it. Popular pairings include:
Mediterranean summer styling
beach inspired decor
relaxed festival seating
shared table layouts
colourful tableware
Food becomes part of the design, not just the menu. Guests remember that long after the plates are cleared.
Final Tips Before You Book
Before you lock in your Essex paella caterer, run through this quick final check. Make sure you have:
confirmed guest numbers or a tight estimate
venue rules on outdoor cooking
access times for setup
wet weather backup plan
dietary needs list
clear quote inclusions
Do that, and you’re set up for success. Paella catering brings flavour, theatre and a social buzz that few catering styles can match. If you want food that gets people talking before they’ve even taken a bite, you’re on the right track.
Ready to book paella caterers in Essex and get those pans sizzling? Start your search, compare your options, and secure your date. Your guests will thank you, usually while going back for seconds.
