My Story

I’m Collin O’Connor, a private chef originally from Sebastopol, CA, and my culinary journey has been anything but ordinary. It all started in a traditional Italian household where food was more than just sustenance—it was the heart of our home. Those legendary family meals, paired with frequent visits to award-winning restaurants, sparked a deep passion for cooking in me at a young age. After high school, I decided to turn that passion into a profession, enrolling at the San Diego Culinary Institute. The training was intense, but it gave me the foundation I needed to create unforgettable dining experiences rooted in my Italian heritage.

After graduating, I sought out bigger challenges, eventually landing an opportunity to train at the three-time Michelin-starred Coi Restaurant in San Francisco. The experience was grueling—14 to 18-hour days, six days a week—but it taught me perseverance and pushed me beyond what I thought were my limits. From there, I explored different paths in the culinary world, spending two years with Grapevine Catering Company in Sonoma and Napa counties, where I learned how to cook for massive events, sometimes serving 350+ guests at a time. It was here that I mastered the art of catering on a large scale, but I craved something more personal and intimate.

My career took an exciting turn when I began working as a private chef, cooking for politicians, celebrities, and billionaires. My work has taken me to incredible places—from luxury yachts and private islands in the Bahamas to the homes of the rich and famous in Los Angeles. I’ve traveled the world with clients, crafting personalized meals that leave lasting impressions. At one point, I even found myself living in the jungle of Costa Rica, helping to develop a high-end farm-to-table retreat center. Each experience has enriched my craft, teaching me that food is not just about flavor—it’s about creating moments of wonder and connection.

Today, I’m dedicated to delivering unforgettable dining experiences, no matter the occasion. Whether it’s a small, intimate dinner or a large, lavish event, I bring my passion for food and my love for creating to every table. It’s about more than just the meal—it’s about making memories that last a lifetime.