Chef
Jael Reyes
Founder of the Private Palette
My name is Chef Jael Reyes, and my journey with food began at just 19 years old in a nursing home dietary department. What started as a simple job delivering trays quickly turned into a passion when a chef there took me under his wing. From those first moments in the kitchen—learning how to break down a chicken and understand the basics—I knew food was more than just nourishment. It was an experience, a way to connect with people, and a chance to create moments they’d never forget.
Over the years, my path took me from managing partner at restaurants, where I spent over a decade leading teams and serving countless guests, to stepping into smaller, independent restaurants where I could fully express my creativity. I became head chef at an Italian restaurant, crafting menus and discovering my love for scratch-made pastas, raviolis, and seasonal dishes that told a story on the plate.
Eventually, I co-owned and opened my own restaurant, Vitabella. Those years taught me invaluable lessons—not just about food, but about people, perseverance, and the power of hospitality. To sharpen my craft even further, I enrolled at the Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, pairing formal training with my years of hands-on experience.
Through all of this, one truth kept surfacing: what I love most about cooking is creating wow moments. The sparkle in someone’s eye when you set down a plate, the way a meal can turn a rough day into a joyful memory—that’s the magic that keeps me going.
After years of long restaurant hours and the stress of running big operations, I knew it was time to take a new path. I wanted more freedom, more flexibility, and most of all, more personal connection with the people I cook for. That’s why I created The Private Palette.
Here, I focus on what I do best: clean, simple, elevated cuisine—fresh pastas, seasonal flavors, seafood, steaks, and dishes that feel both familiar and extraordinary. Whether it’s an intimate dinner for two, a cocktail party with friends, or a private gathering of up to fifty guests, my goal is the same: to give you and your guests a dining experience that is elegant, approachable, and unforgettable.
Because food isn’t just about eating—it’s about celebrating life, creating memories, and bringing people together.
From My Kitchen To Yours,
I Invite You to Relax, Connect, and Savor the experience.
If you’d like to learn more or book your next private dining experience, I’d love to hear from you.