Where Every Dish is a Memory in the Making
Finca Collective
Our Story: From Cruise Ships to Farm Fresh Feasts
Finca Collective's journey began with a serendipitous meeting between Daniel and Roni, who instantly clicked as a team. Daniel's expertise in running the back-of-house operations and Roni's knack for managing the front-of-house made them a dynamic duo. Their shared love for exceptional hospitality and genuine passion for food brought them together on a cruise ship, where they became not only partners in work but in life.
Their journey took a new turn when they started a family and felt the tug of wanting to be together more. With Daniel's job on boats taking him away for long stretches, they decided to create a business that would allow him to work from home. Thus, Finca Collective was born, a concept deeply rooted in Roni's family farm nestled in the Willamette Valley next to Mt. Hood.
"Finca Collective" embodies their vision of collaboration, with "La Finca" meaning the farm or land and "collective" signifying their partnership with other farms to create culinary magic. Their commitment to responsible farming practices and providing from-scratch food that fills not only bellies but also hearts is at the core of their business.
With two small children, a farm to tend to, and other jobs, Finca Collective is truly a labor of love. Their dream is to grow Finca Collective into one of the top caterers in the area and eventually acquire a venue that showcases all their strengths. They envision it evolving into a brick-and-mortar establishment, providing quality food to their community and offering a welcoming space for people to gather and enjoy good food and company.
ABOUT HIM:
Daniel's culinary journey began in his childhood, where his dad's catering ventures sparked his love for food. Inspired by traditional Filipino and Mexican recipes, Daniel's heritage plays a significant role in his cooking. Working in Alaska during his cruise ship career, Daniel learned to cook with the freshest ingredients, celebrating the region's bounty. A pivotal moment in his career was being promoted to executive chef, a testament to his dedication and skill. Known for his laid-back demeanor and a love for teaching, Daniel embodies talent without arrogance, always eager to share his knowledge and passion for cooking. Balancing work and life is made easier for Daniel thanks to his amazing wife, who supports him in his culinary endeavors. Looking ahead, Daniel dreams of creating a culinary experience that allows him to step back and spend more time with his family. Until then, he is dedicated to sourcing amazing Pacific Northwest food and showcasing it for everyone to enjoy.
About her:
Roni is the heart and soul behind Finca Collective, driven by a deep passion for feeding people and creating unforgettable dining experiences. As a mother who loves raising her babies on the land, Roni is committed to sharing the beauty of farm life with others. With 18 years of diverse experience in the wedding and hospitality industry, Roni has worn many hats, from wedding planning to catering, bridal sales, bartending, and even officiating ceremonies as an ordained minister. This rich background has shaped Roni’s approach to food and service, emphasizing the value of family and community. At the core of Finca Collective is a commitment to quality and sustainability, rooted in Roni's belief in responsible farming practices and the importance of knowing where our food comes from. One of the most memorable moments for Roni was hosting a private chef dinner on her family's farm, set amidst her grandfather's old Christmas trees. This magical evening, with guests enjoying a farm tour as the sun set over the fields, epitomized the essence of Finca Collective. Through Finca Collective, Roni hopes to share not just food, but love and passion, making every meal a true celebration of life.
