Cooking, Connection, and Gathering Around the Table

One of my favorite ways to cook is in community. There is something deeply nourishing about preparing food together, sharing stories while something simmers on the stove, and sitting down to a meal that feels both comforting and special. That is exactly why being a retreat chef has become such meaningful work for me.

As a retreat chef, my role goes beyond planning menus and preparing meals. I am there to help create an experience. Food sets the tone for the day. It brings people together in ways that feel natural and unforced. Whether it is a slow breakfast with coffee and fresh fruit, a vibrant lunch between activities, or a candlelit dinner shared after a full day, every meal is an opportunity to support connection and care.

Most retreats I work with are designed for women who are ready to slow down, step away from everyday routines, and reconnect with themselves and each other. I love creating meals that feel grounding and nourishing, but also joyful and satisfying. Think healthy, flavorful food that does not feel restrictive or complicated. Meals that leave you feeling energized, not heavy.

At retreats, I typically prepare nourishing breakfasts, colorful lunches, and satisfying dinners, along with snacks and beverages available throughout the day. Coffee, herbal teas, and infused waters are always part of the rhythm. In the evenings, there is often wine with dinner for those who wish to enjoy it. Some retreats include a free afternoon where guests explore nearby towns or beaches and enjoy a meal on their own. I love that balance of shared experiences and personal choice.

One of the most special parts of retreat cooking for me is teaching. Many retreats include hands-on cooking classes where we gather in the kitchen and make simple, healthy meals together. These are not complicated recipes meant to impress. They are practical, approachable dishes with small tips and add-ins that boost flavor and nutrition. I want guests to leave feeling inspired and confident to recreate what they learned at home.

Retreats are about more than the food. They often include time in nature, gentle movement like yoga, quiet moments for reflection, and cozy evenings spent talking or resting. My goal is for the food to support all of that. To feel like a warm, steady presence throughout the experience. Something you can count on.

Cooking for retreats has reminded me why I fell in love with food in the first place. It is not just about what is on the plate. It is about who you are sharing it with, the conversations that unfold, and the sense of being well cared for.

If you are planning a retreat and looking for a chef who values simplicity, nourishment, and connection as much as you do, I would love to be part of your gathering.

Cooking, Connection, and Gathering Around the Table

Subscribe to Newsletter

Let’s make your next meal unforgettable!