Book with me

Hi, I’m Chef Tristan.
Tristan Kao

I create bold, ingredient-driven menus inspired by Italian craft and Southeast Asian flavor—tailored to your tastes, schedule, and dietary needs.

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I craft custom, flavor-forward dining experiences that feel personal and effortless.

I’ve spent 18 years in the kitchen, and I’m a Le Cordon Bleu Chicago graduate. My background spans independent restaurants as well as casinos and hotels, which taught me how to deliver both creativity and consistency at a high level.

I love working with Italian and Southeast Asian flavors, and I’m especially drawn to Southeast Asian, Latin, and Central American profiles. I’m always happy to build a custom menu around your requests, and I can adapt dishes for dietary restrictions and allergies without sacrificing satisfaction.

Cooking is what I’ve wanted to do my entire life—and it’s my favorite way to express my creativity and passion.

Here’s what I bring to your table—every time.

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I cook with creativity and purpose

Cooking is what I’ve wanted to do my entire life, and it’s the best way for me to express my creativity and passion—so every menu I design is intentional, personal, and full of flavor.

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I’m trained and seasoned by real kitchens

I learned my craft at Le Cordon Bleu and sharpened it through experiences with Delaware North Companies Casino's and Brazen Open Kitchen Bar, building the range to cook across styles while staying precise and organized.

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I let ingredients lead the dish

My “secret” is simple: I let the integrity of the dish stay true to the ingredients, so flavors stay clean, balanced, and honest from the first bite to the last.

Stories and Testimonials

faqs

Frequently Asked Questions

What are my rates for private chef services in United States?

I build every menu from scratch, so what you pay depends on the dishes, how many guests, and the kind of service you want. Most of my dinners come to around 208 USD, and I'll always work with the budget you have in mind. Send me a message and I'll put together a proposal for your event.

What kind of food do I specialize in?

I cook Chef's special, Seafood/Fish, Local and Italian. I build my menus around ingredients that are in season and bought locally, because that's where the flavor is. And if anyone at your table has a dietary restriction, just tell me and I'll adjust the dishes so no one misses out.

How can you book my private chef services in United States?

To book me in United States, click the Book Now button on this page and follow the steps. You'll add your event date, guest count, and any dietary restrictions as you go. Once your request comes through, I read it myself and reply with a menu proposal and the dates I have open.

Can the menus accommodate food allergies or dietary restrictions?

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