About Open Palate

At Open Palate, food is more than what’s on the plate. It’s about connection, creativity, and community. Founded by Chef Shantena, Open Palate brings people together through the shared experience of cooking and dining.

Trained at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts with degrees in both Culinary Arts and Nutrition, Chef Shantena blends classical training with a modern, health-conscious approach. Her background in marketing, social services, and community education shapes her philosophy that food should nourish both body and spirit, and that every meal has the power to bring people closer together.

With roots in both traditional and contemporary cuisine, she creates dishes that highlight fresh, local ingredients and bold, creative flavors. Each menu is carefully crafted to reflect the season, the event, and the people gathered around the table.

Whether you’re hosting a private dinner, planning a special event, or joining one of her interactive cooking classes, every experience is guided by the same belief: good food should be personal, memorable, and made with care.

Chef Shantena works closely with local farmers, small producers, and artisans to ensure every ingredient tells a story and every dish celebrates community and craftsmanship.

From intimate dinners to large gatherings, Open Palate transforms any occasion into a warm, welcoming experience where guests can relax, connect, and savor the art of good food.

Chef Shantena