Today we’d like to introduce you to Eric Michaelson.
Eric, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My love of all types of cuisines started at an early age growing up in the S.F. Bay Area. My parents worked in the hospitality industry for years as servers/bartenders and also some specialty catering. Bearing witness to the organized chaos of many restaurants and hotels,it inspired me to find my way into the kitchen life in my late teens. The sights, sounds and smells of people creating and cultivating experiences for others was what I felt compelled to do by 19 years old. After relocating to the Central Coast by that time,I had really understood what I wanted to do. It’s a very tough business to get into but,I found a way to push through the ups and downs to further elevate my culinary skills. After cooking at many quality establishments for 15 plus years..I decided it was time to continue to work through my goals and start my own Meal Prep/ private dining & catering business.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
At times I’ve felt as the late great Anthony Bourdain did coming up in kitchens and taking a harsh beating from chefs & restuanturers. Even saying this, I’m holding back a bit because at times it’s felt like my experiences were straight out of an episode of Hells Kitchen or Kitchen Nightmares. Chefs screaming, pans flying,things burning and feelings getting hurt constantly. It was a tough reality to settle into but,I love nurturing others and creating. At so many points in my career things were absolutely intense but,I took that negativity and turned it into something positive. I would take it and then show up the next day for work and try to be better than the day before. The process has continued to repeat itself and I take so much pride in what I do and feel good about sharing my experiences through my food. Life isn’t always sweet but, it’s important to rise above to any occasion and make people feel warm and welcomed.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I started this new business at the end of 2025 with a few private dinners,followed by meal prep services for working class families of the Central Coast.
I create weekly menus, as well as,custom orders and am also available for private dining events.
You can find me on Instagram @mi_dream_catering or www.midreamcatering.com to get inexpensive and healthy meal prep plans or share a personal dinner at your own home with friends & family with one of my tasting menus.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
There’s nothing better than fresh,seasonal and local meats & produce. I work closely with local farms & farmers to attain product of the highest quality to share with clients. Sustainability is very important to me and trying our best to limit our carbon footprint. #teamnowaste
Pricing:
- I’m willing to work with anyone on a budget. I’m one of 5 kids in my family so, I understand how hard it can be to make or even pick up a healthy meal. Please reach out to me through Instagram or my website and I’d be happy to help anyone out and figure what’s best for them and their family.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.midreamcatering.com
- Instagram: mi_dream_catering
