The Legacy of Cupid’s Catering:

A Family Tradition Since 1964

From humble beginnings, Gloria and Andrew Quartuccio built Cupid’s Catering on a foundation of love for food and family. For over 60 years, that tradition has continued, bringing the community together through memorable meals and heartfelt service.

Our Love Story

Gloria (Gallucci) Quartuccio
Gloria grew up surrounded by her Sicilian, Piemonte, and Calabrese heritage, learning the flavors and traditions of authentic Italian cooking from her grandparents. While waiting for Andrew to return from the Korean War, she dedicated her time to teaching underprivileged children how to cook—an effort that earned her recognition in a national magazine.

Andrew Quartuccio
Andrew, whose parents also came from Modina and Palermo, shared Gloria’s love of food. After serving his country during the Korean War, he followed his passion, graduating from culinary college in 1956. In 1963, Gloria and Andrew moved their young family—Andrea, Joseph, and the late Salvatore—from Michigan to San Diego.

Just a year later, they opened Cupid’s Café in Lakeside, CA. What began as a small café soon grew and evolved into what is now known as Cupid’s Catering.

Their first clients included community organizations such as the El Cajon and La Mesa Lions, Rotary and Kiwanis Clubs, North Park Lions, and Holy Trinity Seniors. From 1980 to 1985, they operated out of the El Cajon Elks Lodge, where membership increased significantly under their leadership. They later expanded to manage the Downtown Bank of America cafeteria, serving both daily meals and corporate functions.

Throughout the years, Gloria and Andrew also poured their hearts into charitable causes. They supported the Make-A-Wish Foundation, provided meals for thousands of homeless individuals, partnered with children’s hospitals, and helped raise funds for students at Emerald Junior High. Their efforts were often tied to local service groups, where their famous spaghetti dinners became fundraising staples.

Cupid’s Catering also became a trusted choice for countless events, hosting distinguished guests such as Ed McMahon, Lou Rawls, Tom Hanks, Danny Thomas, the Osmond Brothers, Paul Williams, Tommy Lasorda, the San Diego Padres, Lionel Hampton, Ray Kroc, Hank Aaron, Dave Winfield, Rollie Fingers, Steve Garvey, Brian & Marcus Giles, Olaf Weighorst, Frankie Laine, Billy May, Annette Bening & Warren Beatty, and Will Smith.

Today, Cupid’s Catering continues its legacy from a commercial kitchen in Downtown El Cajon. Now proudly owned and operated by Gloria and Andrew’s granddaughter, Gloria Ann Bautista, the company remains committed to serving the community with the same passion, authenticity, and heart that began in 1964