Part of Tampa’s history…
It all began when José and Carlotta Diaz emigrated from Spain to the United States in 1924.
They decided to open a bakery on Nebraska Avenue in Ybor City named La Paloma. Their business prospered in that location until WWII.
In 1950, their son, Joseph Diaz, joined the business and decided to move the operation to North Howard Avenue under the name Olympia. We have continued to flourish in this location since.
In 1993, Joseph and Irene Diaz’s youngest son, Darren, took the reins of the business, phasing out the full-line bakery, and expanding the catering division.
Throughout our history, Olympia has been a steady and innovative presence in Tampa’s event market. Our outstanding culinary creations and quality service have made us one of the area’s premier caterers.
Our Team
Darren Diaz
Owner
Darren is a third-generation owner of Olympia. While growing up in the bakery, he learned the ins and outs of the business and his passion began to grow for the industry, employees, and customers. Darren briefly left the business to attend school at Cornell University and to gain more experience by working in the food service division at Continental Airlines. Darren has an incredible depth of food knowledge and design, and draws inspiration from his other passion – traveling around the world.
Sherri Salsbury
Sales Manager
Sherri has been working for Olympia Catering for more than 10 years and manages our event staff and off-premise catering. Sherri has a passion for creating dazzling events and loves working with each client to achieve their vision. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, her animals, and crafting.