a message from Chef Don

Food and drink bring people together and this beautiful truth is what fuels my love and passion to create unique and delicious dining experiences. My sole intention is to create meaningful and memorable experiences for our guests — ones that last a lifetime.
I have had a lifelong love of fine dining, where many of my best memories center around sharing food and drink with people that matter most to me.

As a private chef, I am able to carefully craft individual and unique menu selections across numerous courses, craft cocktails, local wine pairings and of course, we often end the evening with a fine spirit and the tastiest of desserts.

We source our produce, seafood and meats from local purveyors who are the best in class and care as much about quality as we do.

Let’s not forget the table or space where it all happens — these are specially designed in a festive, elegant or playful way — all intended to complement your experience.

A restaurateur at heart, with decades of experience, including time at the Portland Culinary Academy, restaurant owner and operator in Santa Barbara, a master barman with countless guests served at a variety of fine dining establishments — helping to shape me into the chef and host I am today. Our team pays careful attention to every detail and meticulously labor to exceed guests expectations…often surprising and delighting them.

I am blessed to work closely with my team, which includes several family members along with new friends made along the way. Each of them brings a truly special gift and vision to the table (pun intended). One that needs a special call out is Wendee, my wife of over three decades. She plays an integral role in creating all of our table settings that include specially curated elements to align with the event’s theme. She is also a master baker who creates mouth watering desserts that our guests rave about. Last but not least, she leads the charge in leaving the kitchen in better order than when we arrived.

It would be our pleasure and great joy to help envision your next special event, or if you have never tried the “home chef” experience, we would be thrilled to start the conversation.

Cheers!
GUEST REVIEWS

We celebrated our 20th Anniversary and Chef Don and his crew were the best part of the celebration! No words or photos do our experience justice. From the moment we had our first phone call meeting, to the minute he stepped into our home, to the moment he left... it was all perfect!! The experience, the set up, the service, the ambiance they created, the personal feeling we received from Chef Don and his crew, it was beyond our expectations! The menu was spot on and delicious (delicious doesn't even seem like enough to describe it.) We cannot wait to have him back in our kitchen!

Aileen, June  2024

Chef Don was incredibly proactive in curating a menu. We needed vegan options, catered to multiple allergies and Chef planned six amazing meals. Chef came on time with fresh, delicious food. He explained the provenance of the cuisine and beverages. The dishes were beautifully prepared and absolutely delicious! We had multiple courses every night and my family fought over the leftovers the next day. The kitchen was left spotless each night and by the end of the week, Chef felt like a dear friend. Would HIGHLY recommend. GREAT EXPERIENCE!!

Adam R,  July 2024

Chef Don exceeded my expectations. He was a host as much as a chef, and his team created an ambiance in our home that was far above what I had envisioned. He's clearly a member of the food and beverage community on the central Coast and it shows, both in his meal and his storytelling. 5/5, would recommend to anyone.

Alex T, June 2024

Chef Don and wife Wendee were absolutely wonderful to work with! Engaging, friendly, and professional. This was our first time hiring a chef and they made the whole process seamless and comfortable - from the initial call to get a feel for us and our group, to being onsite and present with out guests.  Everyone enjoyed their company in addition to the food and fabulous display. It was a very special memory, and they made the whole thing just perfect. Thank you!

Sierra T, April 2024

We hired Chef Don for a bachelorette party and it was the highlight of our trip! Chef Don was so kind and attentive and made every one of us feel so special. The food and drinks were beyond delicious and the presentation was impeccable! We had the best time and an amazing meal. I highly recommend Chef Don for anyone who wants a chef that not only puts effort into the food but to connecting with his guests. We ended the night very full and satisfied and feeling like he was part of our family.

Miriam, February 2024

Chef Don was absolutely wonderful. The entire experience was an open collaboration. He crafted a custom menu after learning our preferences and nailed it. The attention to detail was impressive, from the handwritten menu to the table settings. Each course was explained and he ensured it met our satisfaction. The quality of the food was top notch and cooked to perfection. And the cleanup was magical, as if they were never there. My wife and I celebrated our recent marriage and this was the first time we’ve used this service. I would highly recommend Chef Don for your next experience.

Brian G, December 2023