I create heartfelt, high-end private dining with bold flavors, clean technique, and a memorable WOW factor.

Johnny Messina

I bring restaurant-level craft and warm hospitality to your table.

I grew up in the restaurant business and started cooking for my family when I was 3, learning side by side with my mother. I began my professional career at 19 and honed my foundation with Master Chef and James Beard Award winner Chef Frank Audino at Aglio in Philadelphia, then pushed my standards even further at L’Auberge de Sedona and the world-renowned Enchantment Resort.

I moved to Los Angeles to expand into private dining and large-scale events, including work with Wolfgang Puck Catering for major events and intimate private dinners. After opening restaurants and rising through the ranks, I committed fully to private service and joined Private Chefs Inc. Los Angeles, where I’ve built long-term relationships with clients who value consistency, discretion, and food that feels both refined and personal.

Plan your event with me

My secret in the kitchen is to keep it simple and pure, but always keep a surprise in store—the WOW factor.

What you can expect when you dine with me

Cooking is my lifelong focus

Cooking is my focus and true passion in life. I started learning at age 3, and I still cook with the same heart—bringing that energy, care, and precision into every course I serve.

I’ve trained at top levels of service

I built my career through demanding kitchens and elite events—from learning under Master Chef and James Beard Award recipient Chef Frank Audino at 19, to working professionally at 23 at L’Auberge de Sedona, and later expanding my private-dining range through high-profile catering and in-home experiences.

Simple, pure, and unforgettable

My philosophy is simple: I keep flavors clean and honest, then I add a thoughtful twist that surprises you in the best way. I always aim for that WOW factor without losing authenticity.

Johnny’s Menus

I offer curated, multi-course menus designed for private dinners and celebrations. I can keep things vibrant and bold, classic and comforting, or completely tailored—always with clean execution, premium ingredients, and a memorable finish.

Request availability and pricing

Stories and testimonials

The chef was very personable, insured some incredible stories. Everyone felt joyous to have him be a part of the experience, and the food was delicious to be honest we always had far more than enough! Highly recommend him and the intentional dishes that he curates from Luv food that is nutritionally, dense and consciously created and just from a man who truly cares what he does.

Natalia

Johnny was amazing! The food was delicious and everyone loved it. The whole experience was very easy and required little to no work from the guests which made it very enjoyable. Would definitely recommend him to anyone visiting!!!

Maddie cohen

I had an amazing experience with Take a Chef thank you to Johnny Messina Culinary and his talented team. Communication and response time, as well as menu options and accommodations were always prompt and helpful. I enjoyed the menu planning process and felt totally supported by Candace. Chef Darren was incredible with our group for multiple meals during our retreat. His creativity and personality were a perfect match for us and we enjoyed learning about his dishes. He always had more food than we even planned for and everyone was extremely satisfied. I cannot recommend the team enough.

Keely Hubbard

Dinner from Chef Johnny was the perfect way to end our group trip to Sedona. Not only was the food good, he was professional and extremely engaging. Our entire group loved the food and his service. I absolutely recommend him!

Valerie & Chris Cansler

Chef Johnny and Candace were great! They responded quickly & presented a plethora of food options. During dinner Chef Johnny shared stories and laughs. He was a good time! The food was amazing! We had 2 children in the group & he was able to accommodate specials menu items for them. The food was beautiful, tasty, & just the right amount. I don’t think we a single piece of shrimp left! Thanks again Chef Johnny & Candace…we’ll keep you in mind for our next visit!

Candice Edwards

Chef Johnny was amazing! So personable and friendly and the food was delicious! We had a business retreat and he came in and did not disturb our time, he came in and did his thing preparing our meal. During the serving of the meal, he was friendly and engaging but not overwhelming. I would highly recommend Chef Johnny!

Kelly Wyatt

We had a wonderful experience with Chef Johnny Messina. He is very talented and I highly recommend. He was very attentive and engaging which made the experience even better. The food was amazing and we will definitely find him again on our next visit to Sedona.

Tricia Stitz

Chef Johnny was great to have as our chef for a bachelorette/birthday weekend! He was able to work with us to create a menu that was able to accommodate the various dietary needs of our group and all dishes were delicious. He was even able to bring a freshly baked birthday cake!

Neha Manchanda

Chef Johnny and Candace were great to work with. They customized the menu to our liking and the food was delicious. Had a great time conversing with Johnny, super nice guy and very down to earth. Johnny did an amazing job cleaning up as well, the whole kitchen was spotless.

Jesse Gebhardt

We had an unforgettable meal for our party of 6 prepared by Chef Johnny. He accommodated our different dietary restrictions and left our kitchen spotless. Chef Johnny’s food quality and presentation was better than any restaurant in Sedona and we’d love to have him back again.

Karlen Asadi