Although Chef Stephen went to school for audio engineering, food and cooking were a deep passion. He was inspired to become a chef almost three decades ago when his girlfriend Jennifer (and now wife) told him, "You are doing a great disservice to the world if you don't become a chef." He proceeded to get a degree in the culinary arts and has worked in fine dining restaurants for most of his career. Stephen and Jennifer moved to La Quinta to be closer to family where he now works as a personal chef. Chef Stephen enjoys imparting his culinary knowledge with people and is looking forward to sharing pro chef tricks and stories from being in the industry for several years.
Please note menu might vary. If there are particular dishes you are interested in trying, please include your request in the booking form.
In-home meal: (5-8 guests) Meet Chef Stephen at his home in La Quinta, just outside Palm Springs, for a private brunch. Begin with a freshly squeezed seasonal juice and a light snack as Stephen shares stories from his culinary journey. Then gather around the table to enjoy a delicious brunch featuring homemade coffee cake, yogurt parfait, roasted vegetable and goat cheese strata, artisan bacon or sausage, and Yukon Gold potatoes O'Brien. Your meal is accompanied by freshly brewed coffee and refreshing mimosas, and ends with a sweet treat for dessert. When available, Chef Stephen's wife, Jennifer, may also join you, making this a warm and welcoming experience in their home. Brunch-only experiences (without a cooking class) are only available for groups of five or more guests.
Cooking experience: (2-8 guests) Meet Chef Stephen at his home in La Quinta, just outside Palm Springs, for a private brunch cooking class. Start with fresh-squeezed seasonal juice and a snack as he shares stories about his culinary journey. In his modern kitchen, learn chef tips and tricks while preparing a brunch menu through a mix of hands-on cooking and demonstration. A sample menu includes coffee cake, yogurt parfait, roasted vegetable and goat cheese strata, artisan bacon or sausage, and Yukon Gold potatoes O’Brien. Once the cooking is done, sit down to enjoy your creations with freshly brewed coffee and mimosas, followed by a sweet dessert. Jennifer, Chef Stephen’s wife, may also join you for the experience when available.
Languages spoken: English
We had a wonderful experience with Stephen! He was very welcoming and informative. We learned a lot. He was so down-to-earth, which made us feel very comfortable. The food was excellent! We highly recommend!- Tammy July 20, 2026
Chef Stephen is just amazingly talented and creative! This is my second time taking his cooking class and both times have been amazing!- rachel May 07, 2026
Chef Stephen was so personable, knowledgeable and fun. Our Southwestern lunch time cooking class was really enjoyable. We watched him make 3 delicious dishes as we sipped on our margaritas as he gave us good tips and tricks every step of the way. I am already planning when I am going to make Carolita’s margarita ice box cake for my friends when I get home. Chef Stephen’s passion and cooking skills made for a memorable birthday activity.- chris March 06, 2026
Chef Stephen was so personable, knowledgeable and fun. Our Southwestern lunch time cooking class was really enjoyable. We watched him make 3 delicious dishes as we sipped on our margaritas as he gave us good tips and tricks every step of the way. I am already planning when I am going to make Carolita’s margarita ice box cake for my friends when I get home. Chef Stephen’s passion and cooking skills made for a memorable birthday activity.- chris March 06, 2026
We had a delicious meal with Chef Stephen and learned some new techniques food pairing. Chef has a lovely kitchen and is very personable. Would definitely recommend.- obin January 04, 2026
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