Elevate your family
San Diego Vacation
wedding
celebrations
let us celebrate your special occasion
Casual gatherings



We had such an incredible experience with Nathan and his team and were treated to an extravagant experience from start to finish. His food is phenomenal and the service was top notch. He was very communicative throughout the process and helped customize a menu that was perfect for my mom's 60th birthday. We all said, "how will we ever go out to eat at a normal restaurant after this experience?" It was such a special night that we will never forget! We look forward to working again with him for future events!
★★★★★ Nicole
Nathan is a talented chef, good communicator and excellent service provider. We hired Plates by Payne to cook for a birthday dinner in our home. From first contact to the day after the event, Nathan was attentive, timely and thorough. Nathan worked with us to create a fun and celebratory menu for the party, and he delivered. The food was creative, bright and delicious. The service was impeccable. We hosted an upscale lavish dinner party and did not lift a finger. Nathan and our server Rachel created a really magical night for our guests. I strongly recommend hiring Plates by Payne for your next event.
★★★★★ Katie M
Chef Nathan provided a 5 star chef experience. The food was fantastic and the service was excellent! We had a group of 9 for two evenings. They set up the table beautifully and left the kitchen very clean for us. I highly recommend his service as it is top notch! Very professional.
Thanks Chef Nathan!
★★★★★ James
Chef Payne prepared a dinner for my husband's 50th birthday party and it was absolutely perfect! From the start, he was professional, helped to individualize the menu, and was easy to coordinate with. He and his team were fantastic, served amazingly delicious food, and left the space cleaner than how they found it. Can't wait to do it again!
★★★★★ Carolyn
Thank you Nathan for an amazing dinner for our friend's birthday. We thoroughly enjoyed each and every course you prepared for dinner. Brunch the next day was fabulous as well! We are still enjoying our left-overs. I am happy to recommend you and Kaitlin to anyone in the San Diego area.
★★★★★ Helen

PlatesBy Payne
Family meal
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Select from our seasonal menu
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Service is suggested for groups of 6-35 guests
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Served family style or buffet
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Accommodating to children
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Perfect for hassle free group gatherings providing quality time with your guests
Starts at $85 per person
Plus the cost of groceries
*Prices Subject to Change


Boards + Bites
By Payne
curated for any occasion
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Select from our seasonal menu
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This service is suggested for groups of 8-50 guests
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Personalized Grazing Boards and Grazing Tables
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Small bites passed or stationed
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Perfect for any gathering
Starts at $55 per person
Plus the cost of groceries
*Prices Subject to Change








































































ABOUT THE CHEF

Nathan Payne, the creative force behind Plates By Payne, embarked on a 20+year global journey with renowned musical acts as an audio engineer. After the birth of his daughter, he found a new rhythm that led him to blend his passion for culinary artistry with his love for creating unforgettable experiences. Nathan's keen sense of detail and dedication to perfection have seamlessly transitioned from the stage to the kitchen. His travels exposed him to a myriad of flavors and cultures, shaping his distinctive culinary style that's as eclectic as the concerts he once engineered. His journey from the world's stages to your dining room table is a testament to his passion for creating memorable moments and celebrating the rock star in all of us.
"Professional, attentive, and innovative. If your desire is to have a special night and experience new flavors, look no further than Chef Payne"
