Alt image

I create travel-inspired, restaurant-level dining experiences—crafted with discipline, curiosity, and a deep love for pastry and savory cuisine.

Book with me
Colleen Johnson

I bring the craft of world kitchens to your table—bold, elegant, and deeply satisfying.

Image alt description

I only ever truly wanted to be a chef, and I built my path the hard way—through travel, relentless learning, and years of working in demanding kitchens where I had to prove myself every day. From Europe to Japan, I chased the food that fascinated me most, studying technique, tasting obsessively, and pushing myself toward the highest standards.

I have worked as a Pastry Chef and Executive Chef, owned a bakery, consulted for restaurants, catered, cooked privately, and taught culinary students. Along the way, I served as Executive Pastry Chef for Thomas Keller and even designed and presented a birthday cake for His Holiness the Dalai Lama. I’m still learning, still traveling, and still driven by the same goal: cook food that feels memorable and alive.

Talk to me

Image alt description
Cooking is the art, the craft, the senses, and the camaraderie.

I cook with craft, senses, and a serious love for the line.

I treat cooking as both art and craft

For me, cooking is the art, the craft, the senses, and the camaraderie—so I focus on technique, balance, and the small details that turn a meal into a full experience.

I learned by showing up and doing the work

I learned to cook from restaurants and chefs. I read cookbooks like novels, and I pushed my way into kitchens to learn—because I believe the best training comes from real service, real pressure, and real standards.

I believe in honesty and discipline

I don’t have secrets in the kitchen—just hard work. I rely on repetition, organization, and respect for ingredients to deliver food that’s confident, clean, and delicious.

Image alt description
Image alt description
Image alt description
Image alt description
Image alt description
Image alt description
Image alt description
Image alt description
Image alt description
Image alt description

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a private chef experience with Chef Colleen cost?

The average menu price for Chef Colleen is 204 USD per person. Final pricing may vary depending on the menu, number of guests, and event details.

What type of cuisine does Chef Colleen cook?

Chef Colleen offers Chef's special and Mediterranean cuisine for private dining experiences.

Where does Chef Colleen offer private chef services?

Chef Colleen offers private chef services in Long Beach, US.

Which occasions can I book Chef Colleen for?

You can book Chef Colleen for Birthday, Friends gathering, Romantic night and Corporate, depending on availability and the event details.

How do I book this private chef experience?

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