Chef Castro is highly skilled at Curating unique and groundbreaking dining experiences ranging from elegant multi-course meals. We offer a wide array of services that cater to different types of events, such as intimate gatherings overseen by an exclusive chef for a minimum of 6 + guests, as well as grander events like weddings, cocktail parties, and corporate functions. We are highly adaptable to meet your requirements without any limitations 

About Chef Castro

Raised on Asmall farm, in Mexico, Gerardo discovered his culinary talents while growing up on his family's farm. Being raised close to the land gave him a special interest in food that continues to guide his approach to cooking. Gerardo states, "Growing your food creates an emotional connection I can't explain. Peeling potatoes you pulled from the earth, preparing meat from an animal that was running around an hour before it landed in your pot - these are special moments." 

As a child, Gerardo was influenced by the energy and passion his mother put into making meals. He believes, "Cooking is a way to show love, but it's also a way to be creative and thoughtful. I'm an artist; I have a real love of music and DJing and I've been sketching and drawing since I was a child but cooking is the most authentic way to express myself."

Gerardo committed to his dream of becoming a professional chef by moving from Mexico to California where he worked and attended classes at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Napa. He states, "I started as a prep cook for special events but I soon wanted to take my career to another level." Chef Gerardo found a home at the CIA, eventually helping manage the school's teaching kitchen. During this time he put down roots in the greater Napa Valley culinary scene by working his way up from a first-line cook at Far Niente Winery to opening restaurants. "The work was a challenge, but it gave me incredible confidence. I feel I can run any kitchen in the world!" Chef Gerardo still regards his time at the CIA as one of his most memorable experiences. "I feel extremely fortunate for the opportunities I've had to work with people from all over the world, including famous chefs such as Morimoto, Farran Adrian, and Cat Cora. Being in a position to share my perspective and influence people was incredibly rewarding."

In 2010, Gerardo became executive sous-chef at Farmstead Restaurant in St. Helena, CA, a restaurant with a focus on sustainable grass-fed beef and organically farmed vegetables. In October 2011, he was named Executive Chef at Tarla Grill, a Mediterranean restaurant in downtown Napa. Gerardo also worked as the Chef de Cuisine at Cavallo Point, a Michelin star restaurant during his employment there.

After working in restaurants for many years, Chef Gerardo decided that he wanted to take a more personal approach to cooking by working more intimately with others. He began working for Big City Chefs in December 2012, where he was allowed to teach cooking classes and hold private dinners. This eventually inspired him to start his own business, Castro Catering & Private Chef. Through this new venture, Gerardo will be able to unite all the skills he has picked up along the way and inspire his clients one happy palate at a time.

"Chef Gerardo provided the most professional and delicious private dinner at our home for several friends. The wonderful food was paired with amazing wines to complete the perfect evening. We are self proclaimed "foodies" and Gerry delivered at every level. His cuisine is first-class, innovative and incredibly delectable. I urge you to hire this great chef for your next event!" - Javier Hernandez, Napa Private Tours