Jonathan Barone

Short bio

Chef Jonathan Barone, a Private Chef located in Los Angeles, California, brings a rich heritage of culinary mastery rooted in Italian Cuisine while excelling in Modern American Cuisine and Japanese Cuisine. His private dining experiences are celebrated for their creativity and intimate, client-focused approach.

Bio

Chef Jonathan Barone’s passion for cooking began at the age of seven, guided by his Sicilian grandmother who taught him the beauty of homemade, from-scratch meals. Her influence instilled in him a deep respect for ingredients, family, and the joy that comes from sharing food made with love. What began as cherished moments in the kitchen soon evolved into a lifelong calling.

By fifteen, Jonathan was already working in restaurants, honing his skills and developing a sharp palate that set him apart early on. His dedication and natural talent led to recognition at a young age—by twenty-four, he was named Pastry Chef of the Year by the Southern California Restaurant Writers Association. Two years later, he opened his first restaurant, which quickly became a local favorite celebrated for its creative dishes and authentic flavors.

When the pandemic hit, Jonathan adapted his skills to a new environment, taking on the role of executive chef at a high-end retirement community. This experience strengthened his leadership and deepened his appreciation for cooking with purpose—crafting meals that nourish both body and spirit. Afterward, he returned to the restaurant world, joining Momma Mia Trattoria in Portland, Oregon, where he refined his mastery of Italian cuisine and connected deeply with the traditions that shaped his early passion.

In 2023, Chef Jonathan transitioned into the world of private dining, bringing his wealth of experience to intimate, tailor-made experiences as a Personal Chef in Los Angeles, California. He quickly built a reputation for designing sophisticated tasting menus and personalized culinary journeys that blend modern American cuisine, Italian cuisine, and Japanese cuisine. Each menu reflects his philosophy of balancing creativity, precision, and respect for the ingredients.

Chef Jonathan’s culinary expertise now extends across Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego, offering clients a chance to experience fine dining in the comfort of their own homes. His attention to detail, commitment to quality, and approachable yet refined style make each event unforgettable. He believes private dining allows for a level of creativity and connection impossible in a traditional restaurant setting—where every dish is crafted for one unique moment.

Beyond his technical mastery, Chef Jonathan remains guided by the same inspiration that started it all—his grandmother’s belief that food brings people together. Whether he’s preparing an elegant multi-course tasting or a simple family-style feast, he continues to cook with the same warmth and passion that defined his journey from a curious child in a Sicilian kitchen to an accomplished Private Chef in Southern California.