After years of creating private dining experiences across Lanzarote, one local chef reflects on the lessons hospitality, people and island life have taught her.
Last week, private chef Nerina found herself preparing a surprise proposal dinner at a villa in Lanzarote. The table was set, the wine chilled and the sun beginning to sink behind the horizon.
As she finished the final preparations, it wasn’t the food or the setting that made her smile. It was knowing she was about to witness a moment that would become part of someone’s life story.
As owner of Event & Catering Solutions Lanzarote, Nerina has had front row seats to visitors celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, reunions, weddings and family gatherings. While every occasion is different, they have all taught the same lesson: hospitality is ultimately about people.
“When people think about running a business, they often picture bookings, planning and long hours,” she says. “Those things are certainly part of it, but what has surprised me most is how much it revolves around human connection.”
Over the years, guests from around the world have gathered around her tables. Many arrive in Lanzarote seeking sunshine and relaxation. What she often sees is something deeper taking place.
Lanzarote’s slower pace encourages people to reconnect. Conversations stretch into the evening, meals become shared experiences, and time spent together takes centre stage.
Nerina believes this reflects a shift in how people define luxury. Increasingly, guests are not searching for packed itineraries or extravagant experiences. Instead, they value privacy, space and uninterrupted time with family and friends.
As a private chef, she sees this first-hand. Whether preparing an intimate villa dinner or catering for a larger celebration, the focus is often the same: creating an atmosphere where people can relax and enjoy each other’s company.
With more than 25 years of professional cooking experience, Nerina brings Mediterranean and Canarian influences to her menus, using fresh local ingredients and tailoring each event to the people around the table.
For her, however, the food is only part of the story.
“The biggest lesson Lanzarote has taught me is that the simple things are often the most important,” she says. “Good food, good company, beautiful surroundings and time to slow down.” In an increasingly busy world, that may be one of the island’s greatest attractions.
Catering for Your Event
Whether you are hosting a birthday celebration, a wedding, or an open house, Nerina can help you wow your guests with food they will not forget.
She can create a fun food adventure for your event, all at a great rate you will love.
Flexible options include a welcome cocktail or glass of cava to set the atmosphere. At the end of an event, Nerina collects and washes up plates, cutlery and glasses, then does the washing up and leaves you with a spotless kitchen.
She can also source and supply Spanish and local wines, craft beers, spirits and mixers for your events. Just ask when booking.
Save The Date!
Save your preferred date. Popular dates, especially weekends and peak seasons, fill up months in advance. 2026, 2027 & even 2028 is already booking fast.
Saving your date guarantees availability and peace of mind. It gives you time to refine menus, themes, and personal touches later. Once secured, Nerina will work with you to design the perfect dining experience, from intimate dinners to celebrations for 4 up to 50 guests (with prior notice.)
Contact Nerina
Email: nerinahowell@gmail.com
Phone: 0034 711 065 993
Website:www.eventandcateringsolutionslanzarote.com
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