From intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations, we create moments that feel warm, personal, and unforgettable—because great food isn’t just served, it’s shared.

This is our story...

At Lala’s International Gourmet Catering, every dish tells a story—one of tradition, family, and the joy of bringing people together. What began as cherished recipes passed down through generations has grown into a full-service catering experience that celebrates authentic Mexican flavors with a refined, modern touch.

Chef Emma’s Story

Behind every dish is Chef Emma, the heart and soul of Lala’s.

Raised in a home where the kitchen was the center of everything, Emma learned early that food is more than nourishment—it’s connection. Surrounded by family, tradition, and the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine, she developed a deep respect for authentic cooking techniques and ingredients.

Over the years, Chef Emma transformed those early experiences into a culinary journey. Blending tradition with creativity, she refined her skills and built a vision: to bring the same warmth, authenticity, and love from her family table to every event she serves.

Today, her recipes remain rooted in her heritage—carefully crafted, thoughtfully prepared, and always made with corazón.

Our Flavor

Our Vision

Our menu is a celebration of bold, authentic Mexican cuisine elevated with a gourmet approach.

We honor traditional recipes while enhancing them with high-quality ingredients, fresh preparation, and attention to detail. Every bite is designed to balance richness, freshness, and depth—whether it’s a street-style favorite or a beautifully plated catering dish.

From vibrant salsas to slow-cooked meats and handmade masa, our flavors are:

  • Authentic

  • Fresh

  • Memorable

Because we believe food should not only taste incredible—it should feel like home.

Our vision is simple:
To create unforgettable experiences through food.

We aim to be more than a catering service—we are a partner in your celebration. Whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, birthday, or private gathering, our goal is to deliver not just meals, but moments that people remember.

We believe in:

  • Personalized service

  • Consistent quality

  • Genuine hospitality

Every event is unique, and we treat it that way.

Our Culinary Team

Behind Lala’s is a passionate team dedicated to excellence.

Our culinary team shares Chef Emma’s commitment to authenticity and quality. From preparation to presentation, every member plays a role in delivering a seamless and elevated catering experience.

Together, we bring:

  • Skilled craftsmanship

  • Attention to detail

  • A shared love for great food

From the kitchen to your table, our team ensures every dish is prepared with care, precision, and pride.

Professional portrait of Chef Emma López-Padilla in a white chef coat, smiling warmly in a bright, modern kitchen with Terracotta accents, North American / Mexican-American.
Professional portrait of Chef Emma López-Padilla in a white chef coat, smiling warmly in a bright, modern kitchen with Terracotta accents, North American / Mexican-American.

Emma López-Padilla

Professional portrait of a male event manager in a Beige linen shirt, standing in a sunlit courtyard with Sage Green plants, North American / Mexican-American.
Professional portrait of a male event manager in a Beige linen shirt, standing in a sunlit courtyard with Sage Green plants, North American / Mexican-American.

Roberto Padilla

Action shot of a chef plating a sophisticated Mexican dish with precision, focus on hands and vibrant colors of the food, gourmet kitchen setting.
Action shot of a chef plating a sophisticated Mexican dish with precision, focus on hands and vibrant colors of the food, gourmet kitchen setting.

Sofia Mendez

Portrait of a friendly man in a sharp Dark Brown suit standing in an elegant banquet hall, North American / Mexican-American style, professional hospitality headshot.
Portrait of a friendly man in a sharp Dark Brown suit standing in an elegant banquet hall, North American / Mexican-American style, professional hospitality headshot.

Luis Garcia

Founder & Chef

Event & Hospitality Manager

Executive Sous

Event Logistics Lead

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