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I bring forward-thinking Southwest and Southern cooking to your table, backed by 30 years of hands-on kitchen experience.

Book with me
John Phelps

I create bold, comforting meals that look incredible, taste unforgettable, and make people genuinely happy at the table.

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I’m an award-winning chef with 30 years of experience, and my style is rooted in Southwest and Southern flavors. I’ve cooked in hundreds of kitchens, starting as a chef-for-hire in Denver before relocating to New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina and working my way across the Gulf Coast.

Today I’m based near Panama City, Florida, and I currently cook at The Bay, preparing food for guests to enjoy. When I’m off the clock, I love cooking for friends—and I bring that same warm, personal energy to every menu I serve.

Let’s plan your meal

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My secret is no secret at all: I make great food that people want to eat.

What you can expect when I cook for you

I focus on the full experience

For me, cooking is important: I want the food to look amazing, taste amazing, and leave you loving the meal.

I’m built on real kitchen training

I learned to cook from Chef Salinda Witervongle in Denver through two years of on-the-job training that shaped my fundamentals. And I truly believe I never stop learning.

My philosophy is simple and honest

My approach in the kitchen is straightforward: I cook great food that people actually want to eat, and I keep every dish centered on pleasure and satisfaction.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are my rates for private chef services in United States?

I build every menu from scratch, so what you pay depends on the dishes, how many guests, and the kind of service you want. Most of my dinners come to around 136 USD, and I'll always work with the budget you have in mind. Send me a message and I'll put together a proposal for your event.

What kind of food do I specialize in?

I cook Latin American, Mediterranean, Chef's special and Italian. I build my menus around ingredients that are in season and bought locally, because that's where the flavor is. And if anyone at your table has a dietary restriction, just tell me and I'll adjust the dishes so no one misses out.

How can you book my private chef services in United States?

To book me in United States, click the Book Now button on this page and follow the steps. You'll add your event date, guest count, and any dietary restrictions as you go. Once your request comes through, I read it myself and reply with a menu proposal and the dates I have open.

Do I provide private chef services for events or special occasions?

Yes. I regularly cook for Birthday, Family reunion, Bachelor/Bachelorette, Friends gathering and Romantic night. I handle the menu, the timing, and the setup so the meal fits the kind of event you're throwing. Send me your date and I'll check whether I'm free.

Can the menus accommodate food allergies or dietary restrictions?

Choose a menu, share your event details, and the Private Chef Manager team will help confirm the experience with the chef.