My name is Michael Saxer, and I’m a private chef.
My job as a
private chef is like being chef at the most posh, expensive restaurant where only the very elite are allowed in.
I work for one family, traveling with them between amazing homes in New Orleans, Louisiana and Newport, Rhode Island (and a few other luxurious locales from time to time). My employer entertains an ever-changing guest list of distinctive cultural and social leaders. This is who I cook for, thus standards for culinary excellence are high.
While I work in a very exclusive setting, it’s intimate too. I’m challenged on a daily basis to create simple yet exquisite cuisine in a comfortably refined environment. I’m able to do this because I enjoy full creative freedom in the kitchen, and access to the freshest local ingredients in two of the most amazing regions.
One of the cities I spend my time in is New Orleans, my native city. The culture here, with its Caribbean pace, European influence, music, cuisine, and joy de vivre, is infectious in every aspect of life. People here have an unabashed love of socializing while cooking and eating. I feel like I get to play the best part by creating the food that is so essential to this scene.
Fortunately, my bosses revel in this lifestyle too. They love good food, impeccable ambiance, and extraordinary company that range from British Monarchs to Kings of Mardi Gras.
I cooked the first meal for my present employer, almost nine years ago, and have never looked back. During my tenure, I have cooked thousands of dishes in numerous locations around the world. But no matter where I am, my approach to food remains the same. I seek out the best seasonal ingredients, change them as little as possible, and create amazing dishes as a result.
The purpose of this site is to share how you can adopt this approach to food, no matter where you might be, and create your own amazing cuisine. I also hope to spread the joy de vivre that I experience every day in my work and travels. You’re invited to partake in the adventure...
