Think being a private chef in Lanzarote is all sunset dinners and flowing cava? Mostly, yes. But as Nerina from Event and Catering Solutions Lanzarote reveals, there is also a fair amount of wind, quick thinking, and the occasional “this was definitely not in the plan” moment.
We sat down with Nerina to find out what really happens behind the scenes. Her answers might surprise you.
What is your biggest challenge?
The Lanzarote wind, without a doubt. I have had herbs disappear mid-garnish and napkins attempt a full escape. You learn very quickly to plate with one hand and guard with the other.
BBQs must be the easy option, though?
That is what everyone thinks. In reality, it is part chef, part fire-tamer, part weather forecaster, and occasionally a bit of crowd control.
Crowd control? That sounds interesting.
Let us just say a football once made a very unexpected appearance heading straight for the BBQ mid-service. Quick reflexes, swift interception, crisis avoided. Being a private chef sometimes requires the skills of a goalkeeper.
Are all villa kitchens well equipped?
Every villa is a surprise. Some are amazing. Others remind you just how creative you can be. Either way, the goal is the same: make it look effortless.
What is something guests would never expect?
That I am not great with heights, yet I have worked events where the kitchen is upstairs and the BBQ is what feels like a hundred steps down. By the end, it is less “private chef” and more “fitness session with trays.”
Ever had anything go wrong before an event?
Of course. It would not be real life otherwise. I once had a key ingredient delivered just before leaving, did not check it properly, and it turned out to be completely different from what I had ordered.
That sounds like a moment. What did you do?
Owned it. Explained to the clients, had a quick rethink, and created something different instead, which they absolutely loved. Sometimes Plan B turns out better than Plan A.
Do timings ever go exactly to plan?
In theory, yes. In reality, guests are relaxed, enjoying themselves, and not watching the clock, which is exactly how it should be. So I adjust everything quietly in the background.
What is something that always makes you smile?
When someone says, “Oh don’t go to any trouble…” I quietly take that as a challenge. Because if I have done my job properly, they will never see the effort behind it.
What do people misunderstand about your job?
That it is just about cooking. It is really about creating an experience, reading the room, adapting, and making everything feel seamless.
And the best part?
That moment when everyone is relaxed, laughing, and enjoying themselves, and you know everything has come together exactly as it should.
Because at the end of the day, food is love made visible.
More than 25 years of flavour
Nerina has spent more than 25 years cooking professionally, from luxury estates in the UK to sailing boats in the Mediterranean. Her love of food runs in the family: her grandfather was a chef in the armed forces and her mother passed that passion down to her.
Now based in Lanzarote with her husband Matt, Nerina brings bold Mediterranean and Canary Islands flavours straight to your table. Every menu is tailor made to suit your and your budget.
“Big flavours, no stress, all smiles.”
What Event and Catering Solutions offers
From tapas to relaxed BBQs, Nerina creates a personalised dining experience in your home, holiday villa or event venue. She uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients, beautifully presented and paired with island wines, craft beers, cocktails and premium spirits.
Dietary needs are taken care of, so everyone feels included. And at the end of the event, she handles the clear-up too: collecting and washing plates, cutlery and glasses, bagging up waste and removing it from your venue.
Book early for 2026
Popular dates, especially weekends and peak seasons, fill up many months in advance. 2026 is already booking fast, and even 2027! Securing your date guarantees availability and peace of mind, giving you time to refine menus, themes and personal touches later.
Nerina works with you to design the perfect experience, from intimate dinners to celebrations of 4 up to 50 guests (with prior notice.)
Contact Nerina today
Email: nerinahowell@gmail.com
Phone: 0034 711 065 993
Website: www.eventandcateringsolutionslanzarote.com
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