The Philosophy Behind Tastings: Quality, Intention, Experience

Why I Built Tastings

I built Tastings to reflect how I move through the world — quietly, with care, and with intention. Cooking, for me, has never been about the spotlight. It’s about being present, doing the work, and letting the results speak for themselves.

Tastings lives in the space between restaurant polish and the intimacy of a shared table. It’s not scaled, not mass-produced — and that’s the point. I offer a private chef experience in Austin that feels personal, grounded, and deliberate. A farm-to-table dinner thoughtfully prepared, made with intention.

My path here wasn’t linear, but it’s been rich with experience. I’ve cooked in a wide range of kitchens — from Kathryn’s Bistro & Martini Bar in North Carolina to Vintage 50 in Virginia, then later Olivia and Barley Swine here in Austin. Each place taught me something different: how to respect timing, how to season boldly, how to carry yourself during service.

I’ve done large-scale production catering, worked the line in fine dining, even took a year off and ran a float spa — a reset that taught me as much about hospitality as any kitchen. All of it adds up. This work is cumulative, and Tastings is the result of that collection — refined, yes, but never disconnected from its roots.

I source with care — local, organic, and regenerative ingredients when possible — not because it’s trendy, but because it’s the right way to cook. My approach to ingredient selection is as intentional as my plating. Every element matters: the brightness of acid, the salt on a slow-seared protein, the way a sauce pulls a plate together. If you’re looking for a private chef who understands seasonal sourcing and dietary nuance — from low FODMAP cooking to dairy-free or paleo options — this is where I live.

Tastings isn’t about volume. It’s about presence. I don’t repeat menus. I don’t outsource. I build each event from scratch. Whether it’s a private dinner for two, an elegant gathering for twenty, or a wellness-forward brunch, every service is rooted in the same philosophy.

This is what I do — and I’ve designed Tastings to reflect that: quietly, honestly, and without compromise. If you’re looking for a high-integrity private chef in Austin who values flavor, sourcing, and service, I’m here.