Paella Catering Melbourne FAQs

Our packages start from $39 per person for tapas-style catering and vary depending on your menu selection, number of guests, and event location. A travel surcharge applies for events beyond 15 km of Parkdale. View full pricing on our menu page.

Yes — our minimum is 20 guests for paella catering events. For smaller gatherings or intimate private dinners, our private chef service is the perfect option. Learn more about private chef experiences.

Yes — a deposit is required to confirm your booking and lock in your date. The deposit amount will be confirmed in your quote. We accept bank transfer (EFT) and major credit cards. The remaining balance is due prior to the event.

A 15% surcharge applies to all events held on public holidays. Weekend events are priced at standard rates. We will include any applicable surcharges clearly in your quote — no surprises.

We use a simple three-zone system. Zone 1 (0–15 km from Parkdale) — no travel surcharge. Zone 2 (15–30 km) — a flat $60–$80 travel fee applies. Zone 3 (30–45 km, including Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula) — travel fee quoted on request based on your location. All fees are shown clearly in your quote before you commit to anything. Not sure which zone you are in? Get in touch and we will confirm.

We recommend booking at least 2–3 weeks in advance, and 4–6 weeks ahead for weekends, summer events, and the Christmas/New Year period. Popular dates fill quickly — the sooner you enquire, the better your chances of securing your preferred date.

Absolutely. Every paella is cooked live at your event — from scratch, in front of your guests. This is the heart of the Tapas Madriz experience: the theatre of the paella pan, the aroma of saffron and smoked paprika, and the atmosphere of a Spanish kitchen brought to life at your home or venue.

We need a flat, stable surface of approximately 3 × 3 metres for our paella station and equipment. Ideally the area is sheltered from strong wind, which can affect the cooking flame. We're fully self-contained — no kitchen access required. Indoors and outdoors both work perfectly.

We typically arrive 1.5–2 hours before the scheduled serving time to set up equipment, prepare ingredients, and begin cooking. We'll confirm the exact arrival time when we finalise your booking details.

Yes — we bring everything needed for serving: paella pans, burners, serving utensils, and biodegradable plates, cutlery, and napkins. We set up, serve, and pack down completely. You host, we handle everything else.

Yes. We pack down and clean our cooking area fully before leaving. Our goal is to leave your space exactly as we found it — so you can enjoy your guests without a second thought about the mess.

We offer a range of traditional paellas including Seafood (Mariscos), Mixed Meat & Seafood (Mixta), Chicken & Chorizo (Montañesa), Arroz Negro (squid ink rice), and a fully Vegetarian option. All are cooked fresh on-site using saffron-infused Spanish rice, premium local produce, and imported Spanish spices. See the full paella menu.

Yes — we accommodate a wide range of dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Please let us know your guests' requirements when you enquire and we'll tailor the menu accordingly. Our vegetarian paella is completely plant-based and naturally gluten-free.

Yes — tapas are an integral part of the Tapas Madriz experience. From Patatas Bravas and Croquetas to Pan Tumaca and Tortilla Española, our tapas are prepared and served alongside the paella or as a standalone option. All packages include a selection of tapas. View the tapas menu.

Yes — our La Viña Basque Burnt Cheesecake is available to add to any catering event, or ordered separately for home delivery. It serves 12, requires 1 week's notice, and is delivered Thursday–Sunday within 15 km of Parkdale. Order the cheesecake.

We cater for all kinds of events: private birthday parties, anniversary dinners, corporate lunches and functions, Christmas parties, team celebrations, and intimate private chef experiences. Whether it's 20 guests in a backyard or 150 at a corporate venue, we tailor the experience to suit your event.

Yes — our private chef experience is perfect for intimate dinners of 4–12 guests. Ignacio cooks a full Spanish menu in your home, from tapas through to dessert, creating a restaurant-quality experience without leaving your front door. Learn more about private chef dining.

We are based in Parkdale (VIC 3195) and service all Melbourne suburbs including Brighton, South Yarra, Richmond, St Kilda, Bayside, the Mornington Peninsula, and the Eastern suburbs. A travel surcharge applies beyond 15 km. Not sure if we cover your area? Get in touch and we'll confirm.

We comfortably cater for events from 20 to 150+ guests. For larger events we scale our equipment and team accordingly. Tell us your guest count when you enquire and we'll put together the right setup for your event.