I’m Melissa,

a private chef and recipe developer who approaches food as both craft and creative expression. I create bold, hyper-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, including my ongoing work with DJ Khaled and his family, my style has evolved into a form of storytelling that brings together flavor, aesthetics, 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.