About Chef Robin
–a lifelong love of food
For me, cooking has always been more than a profession. It is a lifelong expression of creativity, connection, and a deep appreciation for good food.
I grew up in Washington, D.C., in a family where food and hospitality were a way of life. My grandparents on both sides, as well as my father, owned restaurants, so I was introduced to the world of food at an early age. Some of my earliest memories are of standing on a kitchen stool, carefully scrambling eggs, experimenting with ingredients, and learning the rhythms of a working kitchen.
My grandmother Hilda, an accomplished painter and gifted cook, had a lasting influence on my creative approach. She taught me to cook with my senses, trust my instincts, and embrace the freedom to create without relying on recipes. Alongside my family's influence, I found inspiration in Julia Child, whose passion for technique and quality ingredients reinforced my own love of cooking.
These early experiences shaped not only my culinary style but also my belief that great cooking is equal parts artistry, craftsmanship, and passion.
A Career Built on Creativity + Craft
With more than 40 years of professional culinary experience, I have built a career that spans premier catering, private dining, food styling, cookbook authorship, and culinary education.
After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, I refined my craft through years of hands-on experience, eventually building an award-winning catering business in Los Angeles. I went on to work as a private chef for high-profile and celebrity clientele, bringing together classic culinary techniques, creative flavor combinations, and a thoughtful approach to hospitality.
Today, I provide personalized private chef services along California's Central Coast, leading a team of chefs to create memorable dining experiences inspired by seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and my extensive travels throughout the Mediterranean.
As a four-time cookbook author, food stylist, cooking instructor, and business coach, I continue to share my knowledge and creativity across many areas of the culinary industry.
a few of my favorite things
fresh farmers market finds
Ojai citrus
tequila
travel-inspired food
Why Work With Me?
Exceptional food begins with experience, but an exceptional dining experience is about so much more.
Whether you are hosting an intimate dinner, celebrating a special occasion, or planning a larger culinary event, I bring decades of professional experience and a personal approach to every client relationship.
More than a meal, I create experiences that bring people together around the table.
Decades of Experience | With more than 40 years in the culinary industry, I bring extensive knowledge of professional kitchens, catering, private dining, and event execution.
Personalized Experiences | Every menu and dining experience is thoughtfully tailored to your preferences, occasion, and vision.
Creative, Seasonal Cuisine | Drawing inspiration from my Mediterranean travels, classic techniques, and local seasonal ingredients, I create distinctive menus with an emphasis on flavor and presentation.
Professional Excellence | From my high-end catering background to my work with high-profile clientele, I understand the attention to detail, organization, and discretion that exceptional service requires.
A Personal Touch | Alongside my experienced team, I combine professional execution with the warmth and care of a truly personalized dining experience.
Beyond the Kitchen
My passion for the culinary industry extends beyond creating exceptional food. Having spent decades building and growing successful culinary businesses, I understand firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with turning a passion for food into a sustainable career.
Through Secrets of a Private Chef™, I share the practical knowledge, business strategies, and industry insights I've gained throughout my career. My coaching and educational programs are designed to help private chefs, caterers, and food service professionals build, strengthen, and grow their own businesses.