Meet the Chefs
“I realized very early the power of food to evoke memory, to bring people together, to transport you to other places, and I wanted to be a part of that.”
Jose Andres Puerta
Chef Bria Stifter
I'm not merely a chef; I'm a culinary storyteller, with a whisk and a passion to create edible memories. My journey in the world of culinary began in a small restaurant in my hometown in Minnesota. I found myself enamored with the vibrant energy of the restaurant, igniting a passion that would shape my future.
After completing a culinary arts program and exploring diverse culinary landscapes, my true calling was right here, in your kitchen, creating memorable dining experiences as a private chef. For the past decade, I've been nurturing both my craft and my business, transforming ordinary dining rooms into extraordinary, personalized restaurants. From cozy apartments to expansive estates, each kitchen, each client, each meal has been a new adventure.
My commitment extends beyond the kitchen. I've embraced the role of mentor, sharing my expertise with aspiring young chefs and guiding fellow private chefs in establishing their businesses. This exchange of knowledge and passion for food has become an integral part of my professional journey.
Ingredients are the heart of my culinary philosophy. I'm a sustainability advocate in an apron, partnering with local farms and small businesses to bring you the cream of the seasonal crop. Its like a treasure hunt, but instead of gold, we find the juiciest tomatoes and crispest lettuce. Trust me, nothing beats a chef's enjoyment of planning a menu around whats perfectly ripe and in season.
Dietary restrictions present an intriguing challenge that I eagerly embrace. I've developed a repertoire of techniques, and menus to create mouthwatering dishes that cater to various dietary needs without compromising on taste or presentation. My goal is to ensure that every guest, regardless of their dietary requirements, experiences the full pleasure of a thoughtfully crafted meal.
Whether you're seeking to revisit cherished flavors from your past or eager to create new culinary memories, I'm here to help you bring your vision to life and create wonderful memories. Together, we can transform your dining table into a stage where food narrates a story, evokes joy, and leaves a lasting impression on every guest.
Chef
Lailonie
Hey there, I'm Chef Lailonie, and I'm all about bringing joy to people through food. Ever since I graduated from culinary school, cooking has been my passion and my art form. I see cooking as a form of self-expression, like painting on a canvas but with flavors and textures. My journey in the culinary world has been anything but ordinary. Jumping into the culinary world, has been completely spontaneous move. But through it all, one thing has remained constant: my passion for cooking and my dedication to my craft. I've had a plethora of jobs, each one shaping me into the chef I am today.
The bonding and universal love for food is like a language spoken by all cultures, connecting people through shared experiences, memories, and sensations. It transcends barriers, nourishing not only the body but also the soul. I'm thrilled to be creating some unforgettable dining experiences.
“Arguably the only goods people need these days are good food and happiness.”
Terence Conran
Chef Andrew
Chef Andrew has been a part of A Cut Above’s journey from the beginning. Chef Bri & Chef Andrew became business partners fresh out of culinary training in Minneapolis, MN creating a meal prepping company, and catering private events together. As their careers advanced they separated on their own journeys.
Chef Andrew continued to work in restaurant kitchens as a Sous Chef at high end steak houses, until he slowly made his way into the collegiate sports world. He was in charge of D1 Athletic food programs in both MN and TX, working directly with a team of sports dietitians and nutritionists to create delicious and healthy meals for student athletes. He also has experience as a private chef working with well known professional athletes in the Minneapolis area, filling in when A Cut Above needs extra hands, and especially talented catering for large quantities of people.
Chef Andrew:
“Food is an incredible way to join people together. Creating meals for people was not my first passion, but bringing people together has always been my greatest sentiment. Growing up with a large family, having meals with the people I love the most, has turned out to be some of fondest memories.
I wanted to follow a passion that I felt strongly about. By bringing people together around the dinner table I felt comfort in feeding my passion on creating delicious food that my guests can talk about forever. “
“Food is our common ground, a universal experience.” James Beard
Chef Clay
Howdy! I'm Chef Clay. As a personal and private chef with five years of industry experience, I'm dedicated to crafting exceptional dining experiences. Growing up immersed in the world of food, I developed a deep appreciation for the culinary arts. From my early days as a dishwasher to my time working in various kitchens, I've refined my skills in both fine dining and casual cuisine.
My passion lies in Latin and Southern cuisine, infused with a touch of American flair. As an Austin local, I'm inspired by the vibrant food scene and diverse culinary influences that our city has to offer. I strive to create dishes that are not only delicious but also evoke a sense of nostalgia and fun. By combining traditional flavors with innovative techniques, I aim to make every meal feel adventurous, for yourself and your palate.
"My food is about texture and technique..."
- Chef Dominique Crenn