About MeA native of the State of New York, I moved west in 2004 to Missoula, Montana. I grew up in a family that understood the importance of eating together, home cooked meals, and fresh ingredients. It was never large or overwhelming, but my mother kept a tidy garden. Fresh herbs and vegetables were used all season long in the kitchen of our small farmhouse in Katonah, NY. Little did I know, these tiny nuances of childhood and my teenage years would come to play a huge role in establishing myself as a cultivator of food, and aspiring chef in the kitchen.
My background as a chef is so different than many other food artists. I have never followed the normal route through schooling, rather chased my steep ambitions and goals to serve incredible food all around the planet. I am a backyard chef, one that enjoys the creativity and adventure rooted in establishing fun, seasonal menus. In kitchens, back patios, deep in the woods, and hovered over an open pit fire, I aspire to bring unique, global flavors to the table. Following years of honing in on my skills and abilities, I now bring my connection to your table, knife and wooden spoon in hand. I have enjoyed countless dinner parties, 2 years cooking for staff and students of The National Outdoor Leadership School, 5 seasonal years cooking for clients of the worldwide cycle tourism company; The Cycling House. I am so pleased to share my stories of life, adventure, and food from my travels with you and your family. 2015 is a breakout year for me; I hope you will join me on the farm, in the kitchen, or at the table. Cheers! |
“Lots of cooks can pick fresh, local ingredients and follow a recipe. Passion is the key ingredient in Zander's cooking. Very few chefs create a vibe in the kitchen, and a pleasure to the palate like CHEF Z. More please!”
DJ Brooks Park City, UT |