Hi, I’m Chef Derek.
Derek Brugada

I create elevated comfort food with bold flavors, strong technique, and a relaxed in-home experience.

Chef cover image

I cook food that feels like home—just elevated.

I cook food that feels like home—just elevated. I’m Chef Derek, the chef behind GadaEats. My style is built around bold flavor, strong technique, and food people genuinely want to eat. Before becoming a private chef, I spent nearly a decade in professional kitchens, where I learned consistency, organization, and how personal food can be. Today, I bring that experience into private homes and vacation rentals, creating memorable meals with relaxed hospitality and genuine care. Cook like you care, or don’t cook at all.

Cook like you care, or don’t cook at all.

Here’s what you can expect when you dine with me.

Image alt description

I turn ingredients into memories

Private dining built around the way you want to celebrate. From intimate dinners and date nights to birthdays, bachelorettes, family gatherings, and vacation rental experiences, each menu is tailored to your group. Expect elevated comfort food, bold flavors, thoughtful presentation, and relaxed hospitality. I handle the cooking, service, and cleanup so you can enjoy the night.

Image alt description

I bring family roots and pro-kitchen discipline

I learned to cook in a family kitchen and sharpened my craft in professional kitchens, so I bring both warmth and precision to every menu I serve.

Image alt description

I lead with intention, not ego

My secret in the kitchen is simple: I cook with intention, not ego. I focus on quality ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and a seamless experience in your home.

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 130.80 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 Italian, Latin American, Local, Mediterranean and Chef's special. 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.

Do I provide private chef services for events or special occasions?

Yes. I regularly cook for Birthday, Family reunion, Bachelor/Bachelorette, Friends gathering, Romantic night, Corporate and Foodie adventure. I handle the menu, the timing, and the setup so the meal fits the kind of event you're throwing. Send me your date and I'll check whether I'm free.

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.