Chef Makai Brown

Chef At Home in New York City
Chef Makai Brown

Get to know me better

I am motivated by kindness, seasonality, attention to detail and soulful food from around the world!

Born in Arkansas, raised in Chicago, and based in Brooklyn, my passion for cooking began in the kitchens of my family's matriarchs, where I learned that the most memorable meals bring people together. That foundation led me to graduate from The Culinary Institute of America before spending more than a decade refining my craft in New York and Los Angeles.

My cooking blends fine dining technique with bold, globally inspired flavors, seasonal ingredients, and genuine hospitality. Every menu is thoughtfully designed around my clients, whether I'm preparing an intimate dinner, a special celebration, elegant family-style dining, or a multi-course tasting experience. My goal is to create food that is refined without being pretentious and memorable long after the last course.

As the co-founder of a culinary wellness company, I also specialize in crafting menus that are as nourishing as they are delicious, proving that exceptional flavor and thoughtful nutrition can go hand in hand.

When you invite me into your home, you're getting more than a chef. You're getting a personalized culinary experience, from carefully sourced ingredients and customized menus to seamless service and meticulous attention to detail. I take care of everything, allowing you to relax, connect with your guests, and enjoy restaurant-quality dining in the comfort of your own home.

Photo from chef Makai Brown

More about me

For me, cooking is...

For me, cooking is multisensory art. It isn't just about the flavors on the plate, but the entire experience, from the aromas, colors, textures, and t

I learned to cook at...

I learned to cook in two very different classrooms: my family's kitchen, where I learned to cook from the heart, and professional kitchens, where I le

A cooking secret...

My secret in the kitchen is simple: calm, focus, and consistency. Great meals are built on all three.

Book your experience with Chef Makai

Specify the details of your requests and the chef will send you a custom menu just for you.