Senor Pepe's Paella Catering LLC is a catering service in Fort Myers, Florida, specializing in authentic Spanish paella prepared on-site for events across the state. They serve weddings, corporate gatherings, and private celebrations with a focus on traditional recipes using imported bomba rice, saffron, and fresh seafood or meats. Their menu includes options like Paella de Marisco (seafood), Paella Valenciana, Paella de Bacalao (cod), and unique variations such as Paella Hawaiian Luau. Each dish is cooked in a paella pan over an open flame, following time-honored methods, with a minimum of 20 guests per paella type. The service includes buffet-style presentation with salad, rolls, and disposable tableware. They are known for their commitment to authenticity, emphasizing ingredients like saffron and sofrito over artificial coloring.
The company emphasizes its roots in traditional Spanish cuisine, drawing from the Valencian origins of paella. Their founder, inspired by travels in Spain, distinguishes authentic paella from imitations by insisting on proper ingredients, such as saffron, not dyes, and the signature crusty bottom known as socarrat. They reject long-grain rice and artificial coloration, which they refer to as “paella pintada.” Their menu reflects regional variations, including the original Valenciana with rabbit, duck, and snails, and seafood paella with lobster tails. They offer customized wedding menus with plated service, salad options, and dietary accommodations, ensuring a formal, high-quality experience.
The business is located on A Metro Pkwy, just a short distance from John Yarbrough Linear Park and the Ten Mile Canal, with nearby neighborhoods including Hideaway Country Club and Plantation Preserve, and close to Evangelical Christian School. Its location places it within a quiet residential corridor near natural and recreational features, accessible from major local roads.