I’m Melissa

a private chef and recipe developer who approaches food as both craft and creative expression. I create bold, seasonal dishes through an artistic lens, blending refined technique with global influence and a strong sense of design. After more than a decade cooking for celebrity and high-profile clients, my work has evolved into a style that brings together flavor, aesthetics, storytelling, and visual impact. This perspective has led to collaborations with luxury brands such as YSL, MCM, and other design-driven houses.

I grew up in a Mexican- American family in California, where I learned to honor ingredients, respect the seasons, and value the farmers and communities behind every dish. That foundation shaped my low-waste, intuitive approach and keeps my cooking grounded in something honest and personal.

My food is defined by sculptural plating, vibrant contrasts, thoughtful restraint, and high-protein, nutrient-dense ingredients expressed with modern elegance. I create dishes meant to be experienced with all the senses, where texture, color, aroma, and composition matter as much as taste. My goal is always to craft food that feels alive, intentional, and emotionally resonant.

At the core of my work is the belief that food is a form of art and connection. I aim to create experiences that inspire, nourish, and leave a lasting impression.