About Buckboard Catering & Events in San Diego

Buckboard Catering & Events offers and abundance of talent as well as variety, flavors and innovation. From the kitchen to the everyday operations we strive to ensure that each and every event is infused with excellence and professionalism. It is our passion to create the most memorable and inspired events for our customers to enjoy.

There are not many people who possess the talents and resume of Executive Chef Anthony Gusich. Since 1995, Anthony has been an integral part of such renowned restaurants as Dickinson West Bistro, Gigi’s and Elevations. He has also lent his expertise at upscale hotels like The Ritz Carlton, Beverly Hilton, and Merv Griffin’s Givenchy Spa & Resort. In these impressive and demanding kitchens Anthony earned a reputation for being able to create surprising and uniquely delectable flavor profiles. During this time he was able to hone his ability to artfully plate dishes, bringing a thrilling visual flair to the dining experience. His straight-forward, easy going, and honest demeanor, combined with his hardworking attitude and passionate love of food, makes Anthony the perfect person to create, prepare and present the wide variety of elegant and distinctive food choices at Buckboard Catering & Events.

Fadi Shihadeh, Owner at Buckboard Catering & Events, has been actively involved in the food service industry for over 20 years. Before operating a catering business, Fadi was responsible for overseeing operations at Elevations, a restaurant at the top of the tram in the San Jacinto Mountains. Since taking on Buckboard Catering & Events in 1999, Fadi has been leading the charge by providing day to day decision making to his employees and a strong vision of customer service to all he serves. The customer relationship Fadi is most proud of would be the Military Service Members and their families of the greater San Diego area. Buckboard Catering & Events is proud to support the men and women that serve in the United States Military.

Chances are you have spoken to Hospitality Director, Mary Baumer, if you have contacted the offices of Buckboard Catering & Events. Mary is an expert when it comes to accommodating and maintaining a budget. Her main focus is to ensure every event is a success! Clients often report that Mary is friendly, a good listener and has an uncanny ability to address any issue when event planning. Mary embraces the challenges that are unique to each event with excitement and a level head. Everyday event details motivate her to put together a perfect plan to exceed her client’s expectations each and every time.

Corrina Brennan, Business Development Manager, has garnered many service and achievement awards in the last 15 years of her career. With a background in business management for the food and hospitality industry, Corrina is no stranger to the supervision of every detail when planning a special event. She has been consistently known for her ability to make the most of her resources when innovating that special event for all of her clients. The image and brand of the event, the customer and Buckboard Catering & Events are always on the forefront of her mind.

Rajwan Houry, Chief Financial Officer, has been a fundamental part of the San Diego business community for more than 20 years. From leasing and running a motel, renovating a restaurant, to operating a successful market and deli, Rajwan has been providing top quality service in the hospitality industry most of her professional days. This vast array of experience gives her a unique perspective on business and the ability to stay focused when the stress is high. She is passionate about success and enjoys winning over the challenges she has to deal with each and every day to ensure all customers are provided the highest of quality and service.

Bill Benson, CEO, has a passion for learning! “If I have a question, no matter how mundane, it is constantly amazing that there are resources available to answer that question.” In seeking the answers to any and all questions that he encounters, Bill has gained knowledge and experience that has served him and the people he works with very well. One of Bill’s strongest qualities is his ability to absorb new information and in turn implement the information to benefit Buckboard Catering & Events. Bill has extensive experience personally and professionally in the catering industry and uses this to the customer’s advantage. His philosophy of excellence, proper planning and a sound operational structure can be seen in everything his team produces. Bill is mindful of those around him and goes above and beyond to ensure that proper training, professional development and best practices are the number one priority at Buckboard Catering & Events. With Bill behind the scenes every event takes center stage!

The team at Buckboard Catering & Events is dedicated to the variety, flavors and innovation of each event. Our approach to catering and event planning is one of professionalism, commitment and creativity. We pride ourselves on our customer service and look forward to any opportunity to make every event a special one. From Grill to Gourmet… Thank you for choosing Buckboard Catering & Events.