Chef in Santa Cruz, California

Elena is a naturally gifted chef. When you see here move around the kitchen it becomes obvious that this is her happy place. She is a master at combining flavors and aromas, and provides the total cooking experience: snacks, appetizers, salads, mains, drinks, desserts, and on and on. You can talk to her about unusual flavor combinations, or how the food actually makes you feel. She is super fun and knowledgeable not just about cooking, but also the benefits of certain ingredients, and can easily accommodate dietary restrictions. She is the best!!

Elena is a creative, experienced and knowledgeable chef. I have been at gatherings for both small and large groups. where she has prepared food which is both delicious and beautifully presented. She understands flavors and ingredients in a way that allows her to consider peoples preferences and and budgets and deliver tasty and healthful food. As an added bonus, Elena is also a lovely, welcoming, and friendly person. She collaborates with clients and guests alike to address preferences and sensitivities from vegan to omnivore. While some chefs are kind of my way, or the highway, Elena is the opposite. She loves to cook, she’s a really good chef, and she truly wants people to enjoy the food and have a great experience. I would hire her in a heartbeat!

I’ve been lucky enough to enjoy Elena’s food a number of times, and everything she prepares is amazing. Her menus are creative, healthy and nutritious, and always super tasty. I would highly recommend hiring Elena to anyone who wants a great chef who knows how to make healthy, flavorful food — you won’t be disappointed!