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I have been working in the culinary industry for over 20 years. I received my professional culinary training while serving in the Coast Guard. Upon returning home I became a sous chef at a premiere Italian restaurant in New York City. Since then I have served as a consultant for multiple restaurants, helped to train chefs & kitchen staff, opened & ran a bean to bar chocolate making shop, and continued to do private catering events throughout it all.
I truly believe that "food makes friends." No matter our differences, we can all share, laugh and connect over a delicious meal. I would love share my passion with you & your loved ones and be a part of your events worth celebrating!
Overview
Hired 13 times
Background checked
6 employees
21 years in business
Business hours
This pro hasn't listed their business hours.
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, Venmo, and Zelle.
Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, professionalism, and responsiveness.
Exceptional 5.0
27 reviews
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Read reviews that mention:
Elizabeth K.
Jun 15, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
We hired culinary journeys for my sister’s 30th birthday. They helped us curate an amazing menu paired with signature cocktails. We could not have asked for a better experience!!!!! Highly recommend Chef Hank and his team - we had an absolute blast and the food was beyond amazing!!!!!!
Details: Brunch / dinner party • 11 - 20 guests • Cocktail hour / hors d'oeuvres • Dinner • Dessert • I'm flexible • Cold beverages (alcoholic) • American - casual • Italian • Asian • Barbecue • Meal prepared onsite • Only once • My home, venue, etc.
Personal Chef
Andrea J.
Mar 10, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
What to say about the most perfect dinner ever!?!? I hosted a girls weekend in Beach Haven, NJ with 13 of my friends. From the onset, Lucy was super responsive to my questions and helped to put together a mouth watering menu. Chef Hank checked in and reviewed everything before to event. They were early, prepared an AMAZING meal from apps, to entrees, to dessert and left the kitchen spotless. We all tried new something new, but the meal still felt personalized to our varied tastes. They accommodated several food allergies and preferences with ease (or at least made it seem that way)! And as an added bonus, they were super cool to hang out with!!! I can say with 100% certainty that I will be calling them again!!!
Details: Brunch / dinner party • 11 - 20 guests • Cocktail hour / hors d'oeuvres • Dinner • I'm flexible • Dessert • American - casual • American - formal • Italian • Mediterranean / Middle Eastern • French • Meal prepared onsite • Only once • My home, venue, etc.
Personal Chef
Jake V.
Dec 6, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
Had such a great experience with chef Hank and his team, they were responsive and navigating the menu selection was a breeze. They communicated the offering and helped select amazing dishes that worked for everyone’s preferences. I wasn’t sure what to expect as I don’t get private chefs often but he showed up on time and fully prepared, they took care of everything which helped me to relax and enjoy the evening. The food was beautiful and so delicious I really appreciated the professionalism he thought of everything. Would book again in a heartbeat
Details: Special occasion (birthday, anniversary, etc.) • 11 - 20 guests • Cocktail hour / hors d'oeuvres • Dinner • Premium (high end ingredients) • Cold beverages (non-alcoholic) • Mediterranean / Middle Eastern • Meal prepared onsite • Only once • My home, venue, etc.
Culinary Journeys's reply
We're so glad that you enjoyed your experience with Culinary Journeys! We had a blast cooking for you and would be happy to do so again anytime :)
Personal Chef
Barbara P.
Dec 5, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
This was the second event we had with culinary journeys and chef Hank and again it exceeded our expectations. Food was delicious. The presentation was beautiful, and his attentiveness was comforting during an a stressful time.
Details: Funeral • Lunch • Dessert • American - casual • Buffet • Yes, full service • Home • Yes, full kitchen • 20 - 29 guests • Standard (basic ingredients)
Culinary Journeys's reply
We're so thrilled that you were happy with our service Barbara! Thank you so much for booking with us and we would be happy to cook for you again!
Wedding and Event Catering
Lee P.
Dec 22, 2025
They came to Baltimore to cater a reception after a funeral. They arrived early so we could go to the service. When people arrived, everything was set out beautifully. We has hors d'oevres and dessert. Many guests commented on teh quality of teh food,
Credentials
Background Check
Henry Reed
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Our pricing reflects the clients wishes and the competitive price of food cost.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
After the initial contact through Thumbtack, we take a more personable approach. The first thing we will ask is when you would like to connect over the phone so that we may get a more detailed idea of your event . Following that, we work with the client to develop a menu and style of service that works within their budget.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
My Culinary education started at the very young age of 3 where I began cooking with my grandmother. From there, it has spanned from practical training in various restaurants to attending the United States Coast Guard Culinary Training Facility in Petaluma California. I also worked as a sous chef for several years at a high end Italian restaurant in New York City.
