PRIVATE CHEF
eat well at home
Everyone deserves to eat delicious, nourishing food.
about me
Originally from outside Boston, I’ve called Brooklyn my home since 2019. I am a graduate of Sarah Lawrence College and the Natural Gourmet Center at the Institute of Culinary Education (formerly NGI), where I was trained in vegan, gluten-free, Ayurvedic, dairy-free, low-histamine and nutrition-minded cooking with a focus on whole foods and general wellness. I am also a certified Postpartum Chef through Clover and Timothy with Alicia Allison. I aim to bring the restaurant quality techniques that I gained working at notable New York restaurants, including HAGS and Agi's Counter, into your home. In addition to working with private clients, I’m also a Fishmonger at Mermaid’s Garden in Prospect Heights.
I have an authentic and deep love for food and for people. There is nothing I love more than adapting someone's favorite food to fit a new dietary restriction or lifestyle change. I've been described by co-workers, family and friends as calm and perceptive, endlessly practical, and as a young Strega Nona.
what I offer
postpartum support
This package begins at the start of your fourth trimester. With thoughtfully prepared, home-cooked meals, I aim to nourish you so that you can dedicate your energy to caring for your new baby. I will cook in your home once or twice a week, during which time I will prepare a variety of main dishes, sides, grains, sweets, beverages and snacks that are designed to support the postpartum body.
the bridge package
This package spans the end of pregnancy into postpartum. With this plan, you can experience me cooking in your home and I can get to know you and your preferences before baby arrives. My goal is to provide comfort and peace of mind, knowing that you don’t need to worry about how you will eat nourishing food as you transition into parenthood.
* These periods are important in every path to parenthood, including adoption and surrogacy. I'm especially passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ parents during this time of transition.
* Please note that I will be cooking in your home and do not provide delivery services.
specialty diets
With experience in various diets, including low-histamine, vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free, I can guide you through navigating new allergies, dietary restrictions, and lifestyle changes. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan that perfectly suits your unique needs. I can collaborate with your allergist or nutritionist to modify your favorite meals, test and write new recipes, teach you how to prepare dishes yourself, or even do your weekly meal prep. My ultimate goal is to simplify the complexities of specialty diet cooking and bring joy and ease back to mealtimes.
home cooking
A classic offering - I provide a variety of services, including weekly meal prep, personalized meal plans, cooking for small gatherings and even family cooking classes. Everything I do is designed with your unique needs and preferences in mind.
Please fill out this form or email me at juliarufo.chef@gmail.com if you’d like to chat about working together or have any questions.