Services
Dinner For Two
A Romantic Dining Experience Our Dinner-for-Two events make for truly memorable experiences. Avoid the hustle and bustle of a busy restaurant and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal and a relaxing evening in the comfort of your own home. Chef James elevates your experience with impeccable service and culinary finesse.
Private Chef
Treat yourself to personalized, chef-prepared meals by our private chef services centered around YOU. Chef James will create your bespoke menu filled with flavorful, nourishing, seasonal, and organic dishes.
Meal Prep
Busy people lead busy lives. Meal preparation services are the perfect solution when life gets too hectic. Avoid the temptation of the drive-thru and come home to a home-cooked meal with fully customizable meal plans to suit your family, diet, and lifestyle.
Portfolio
Meet the Chef
James McElwain
Chef James: A Culinary Artist with a Passion for Fusion and Innovation
Meet Chef James, a highly skilled and classically trained Personal Chef based in Washington, D.C. His culinary journey began in San Diego, California, where he experienced a melting pot of flavors, embracing the diverse cuisine from the vibrant streets of Tijuana to the rustic coastal villages of Rosarito Beach, Ensenada, and Puerto Nuevo in Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula. This early exposure shaped his palate and sparked his love for regional Baja California dishes, which he skillfully infuses into his modern Mexican creations.
Fueling his passion for culinary exploration, Chef James embarked on a decade-long journey across Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Asia. During his travels, he embraced the rich tapestry of flavors from different cultures and blended them harmoniously with the essence of his homeland. The vibrant culinary scene of Hawaii left a profound impact on him, prompting him to refine his skills at the prestigious Gros Bonnet Culinary Academy in Honolulu.
With an unwavering commitment to mastering his craft, Chef James pursued patisserie training at the esteemed Art Institute in Washington DC. It was in the nation’s capital where he cultivated his signature cuisine, artfully combining the flavors of Mexico with a diverse array of world gastronomies.
Chef James’ talent and expertise caught the attention of the renowned Watabe Wedding Corporation, where he showcased his culinary finesse. Beyond his Personal Chef services, he collaborated with esteemed Chef Adrian Cruz to deliver an unforgettable culinary experience at the prestigious James Beard House in New York City in 2018.
Continuously pushing the boundaries of culinary innovation, Chef James collaborates with esteemed establishments such as Pinwheel Garden in New Jersey and Twin Oast Brewing Company in Ohio, designing specialty menu items that leave patrons in awe.
Beyond his impressive culinary accomplishments, Chef James is a proud military veteran. He generously donates his time and expertise as a culinary mentor at La Cocina VA, supporting fellow veterans as they transition into the field of Culinary Arts.
With a profound passion for creating culinary masterpieces that captivate the senses, Chef James brings his unique blend of flavors and experiences to every dish he crafts. Whether it’s a private event or a gastronomic collaboration, Chef James consistently delivers a culinary journey like no other, leaving an indelible mark on the world of modern Mexican cuisine.
To experience the artistry of Chef James firsthand, contact him today for a memorable culinary experience that celebrates the fusion of flavors and cultures.
Contact Us
Click the e-mail link below to schedule a free consultation.