Meet Kayla Utahna | Professional Chef- Private Chef and Caterer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kayla Utahna and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kayla, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Since I entered the job market, I knew that I wouldn’t be fulfilled working for someone else. The hospitality industry can be brutal, and I had a message behind my craft that I needed to share. I figured if I’m working hard, I may as well be doing it for myself and the impact my work can have on others! Now, my work is about sharing my life and my passion instead of putting my life and passion aside for work.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
For me, cooking is all about connection. Connecting with each other, connecting with our food, connecting with our lives! Every time I cook for something I not only strive to bring flavor and artistry to the plate, but that warmth and connection too! My experience in the culinary field has been adventurous and varied. I initially started out as a pastry chef, and at the age of 21 decided to pack up and head to Europe. After 5 years abroad working in establishments ranging from humble pubs, to 5 star hotels, to the home of the Duke of Richmond and learning everything I can from as many people and places as possible, I returned to California only to find myself stuck in a pandemic.
I decided instead of sitting on my bum, I was going to use my years of experience and finally pursue something of my own!
From then came Bon Spice, a spice company creating flavors inspired by my travels. Then came my work as a private chef, then followed Chef Kayla Catering, a business that specializes in custom services for events of any scale and theme.
After 13 years in the culinary world, somehow things still feel like they’re only just beginning and I’m so grateful to be on this delicious journey.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’ve only lived in LA for a couple of years and still have so much to explore myself! Some stand out places that come to mind are: – The Front Yard in North Hollywood
– Crossroads Kitchen on Melrose
– The Original Farmer’s Market
– Better Than Sex Desserts
– Malibu Wines and Beer Garden
– That one taco stand that Maria runs down the street
– My house for dinner

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d love to dedicate my shoutout to family, friends, and other professionals in the industry that inspire and support me in the wild risks I take. The incredible life I’ve lived would have been impossible alone.

Website: www.chefkaylacatering.com

Instagram: ChefKaylaUtahna

Other: www.bonspice.shop