The Heart Behind the Heat
My journey with food began at age 15, sparked by a simple love for how a well-cooked meal can change the energy of a room. That early passion led me to the vibrant culinary scene of Portland, Oregon, where I honed my craft at culinary school and learned that food has no boundaries.
Driven by a sense of adventure, my career has taken me to the ends of the earth—literally. Serving as a chef at research bases in Antarctica, I mastered the skill of creating "grand" experiences in the most "grounded" (and frozen) environments imaginable. Those years on the ice, combined with my travels across the globe, taught me that no matter where you are, food is the ultimate universal language of connection.
Today, whether I’m prepping your daily meals or crafting an intimate multi-course feast, my mission remains the same: to bring joy to your table and create lasting memories through thoughtfully prepared, world-inspired cuisine.
My Philosophy: Rooted in Community
For me, the most memorable meals begin long before the stove is lit—they start in the soil and at the stalls of our local farmers and vendors. I believe that food is at its best when it’s served close to home. By prioritizing locally sourced ingredients, we aren’t just ensuring the vibrant, peak-season flavors that define fine dining; we are directly investing in the strength of our surrounding community.
Connection is the secret ingredient in everything I do. Whether I’m visiting a Duluth farm or preparing a bespoke menu in your kitchen, I thrive on the relationships built through food. My goal is to bridge the gap between the producer and the plate, creating a grounded yet grand experience where you can truly taste the care, the story, and the local spirit behind every bite.
A Few of My Favorites Local Haunts
