Private Chef Lydia Gaitan
I’d like to welcome you on a culinary journey! As a passionate, private chef, culinary innovator and food enthusiast, I bring with me 40 years of experience perfecting my culinary craft and pleasing even the pickiest of palates. My culinary philosophy is “simplicity is the height of elegance.”
Worldwide Training, a Restaurant in Santa Barbara
During my 40 years of culinary experience, I’ve gained knowledge through extensive travel to 15 countries around the world. I’ve lived and trained in Italy and Southern France, working in prestigious restaurants, hotels and private homes. Once back in the states, I opened the beautiful Meritage Restaurant, one of the finest in Santa Barbara, which fed the likes of Julia Child as well as many other celebrities.
Haute Cuisine for Private Clients
For my private clientele, I’m committed to pushing the boundaries of flavor and presentation, continuously exploring new ingredients, techniques, and trends. Through my love of Old World and Mediterranean cuisine, I share my passion for fresh local farm foods and sustainable fish and meats.
Higher Echelon Fine Dining Experiences
So whether it’s farm-to-table comforting classics, or Fine Dining experiences, join me on the journey of endless culinary possibilities, where delicious food has the power to bring people together and create unforgettable memories!
“Lydia deserves bouquets – she works hard to run a fabulous restaurant rave followers of this imaginative dinner only Cal-International with Asian accents offering many choices on the menu; set in a charming old house, its always crowded, yet still delivers a lovely dining experience, that has fans cheering.”
“Bravo!”