I create private dining and pastry-focused experiences that blend New American cooking with Brazilian and Italian influences—thoughtful, personal, and made for sharing.

Thais Valdez

I bring restaurant-level cooking and bakery-quality pastry to your home—personal, seasonal, and made with care.

I learned to cook at home, where food was part of everyday life, and I naturally fell in love with pastry. Over time I taught myself to create cakes and desserts that feel balanced and never overly sweet, and I continue exploring more health-conscious baking with natural ingredients—without losing the joy of a great dessert.

Professionally, I’ve cooked daily family meals, sold custom cakes by order, and worked as a private chef managing weekly menus, dietary needs, and family dinners independently. I’ve also worked in Italian restaurants and New American fine-dining kitchens, and today I run a small micro-bakery focused on sourdough, baked goods, and custom cakes while also cooking private dinners and small events for up to about 25 guests.

Let’s plan your event

I trust my instincts over recipes, and I taste constantly as I cook.

What you can expect when you dine with me

Simple, natural cooking that fits your moment

For me, cooking is simple and natural. If someone needs food, I cook—and I bring that same grounded approach to every menu, focusing on comfort, clarity of flavor, and food that feels genuinely cared for.

Experience built through real kitchens and real responsibility

I learned by working in kitchens, cooking for people, and growing through practice, responsibility, and experience—whether I’m planning weekly meals for a family or executing a composed dinner with restaurant-level timing.

Instinct-led, taste-driven precision

My philosophy is to trust my instincts over recipes and taste constantly as I cook, so every dish is adjusted in the moment and finished with balance, freshness, and intention.

Thais’s Menus

I offer curated menus for private dinners, small gatherings, and tea-party style celebrations—rooted in New American cooking with Brazilian and Italian influences, and always finished with desserts I craft with balance and care.

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Stories and Testimonials

Incredible four course meal to celebrate my mom’s birthday! Everyone was raving about how delicious every dish was. Chef Thais offered changes to the menu based on our preference or substitutes for specific guests, however we made no modifications and everything was perfect. The presentation and portions were impressive. She even left us leftovers! Would definitely hire again!

Lauren Howard