I create memorable, seasonal dining experiences with locally sourced ingredients—rooted in Modern American cooking and inspired by French Provençal, Northern Italian, and global peasant-food traditions.

James Zitz

I cook seasonal, locally driven meals that feel personal, generous, and unforgettable.

I’m a professional chef with over 25 years of experience, shaped by kitchens and mentors in San Francisco, Key West, Seattle, and Washington, DC. My inspiration starts with what’s in season around me, and my cooking is influenced by Modern American, French Provençal, Northern Italian, and a wide range of “peasant food” traditions.

Back home in Virginia, I’ve dedicated my work to sustainable local products from small family farms and producers. I’ve built close relationships with growers across the regions around Washington, DC and Richmond, and I love bringing that abundance to your table—whether I’m cooking for intimate gatherings, corporate retreats, drop-off events, or full-service experiences with a trusted team.

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I let the ingredients tell me what they need—so I can showcase them at their peak instead of forcing a preconceived idea.

What you can expect when you eat my food

Cooking is how I share what inspires me

Cooking is my way to share what inspires me—an unspoken conversation through imagination, tactile delight, and our shared desire to feel cared for.

I’ve learned through a wide range of kitchens

I learned to cook in cafes near the fisherman’s wharfs of Key West and Seattle, moved through fine dining in San Francisco, and grew further in the imaginative locavore restaurants of Washington, DC.

I let peak ingredients lead the menu

My “secret” is simple: I allow the ingredients to dictate what they require rather than trying to manipulate them into a preconceived idea, so I can showcase them at their peak.

James Zitz Menus

I offer curated menus built around what’s seasonal and exceptional—ranging from Virginia-inspired comfort food to elevated local tasting experiences, plus Italian/Mediterranean selections. I’m happy to collaborate with you to accommodate dietary needs and personal preferences.

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Stories and Testimonials

Overall, Chef James did a fantastic job on a private dinner I hired him for for my husband's birthday. He arrived about 15 minutes later then planned which was fine because we weren't in a rush. He was also traveling about an hour on busy 95 on a Friday evening. Once he arrived he set up quickly and oriented himself to our kitchen and got to work. My husband and I were able to enjoy a a calm evening on our porch with a glass of wine while Chef James took care of the rest. He did a fabulous job and the food was delicious. He also did all the dishes and cleaned up well before heading out of the night. Overall we would hire him again and enjoyed our experience!

Sarah Howell

James helped curate a fantastic meal for our first wedding anniversary. We ate so much, I still felt full at 1am! His food was delicious.

Kelly McCrory

Chef James arrived when he said he would and familiarized himself with our kitchen and equipment. We had a miscommunication regarding service; we thought he was bringing the plates but that was not the case. Since we only have one set of nice china and there were nine of us that meant some had to be washed and reused during the dinner, which he did. The first two courses were very good, with his lamb lollipops and savory bread pudding the biggest stars. The third "main" course was not as special, with the brisket being a little over and the gratin being quite under for some. The lemon ricotta cake was very good for dessert. He cleaned the dishes and the kitchen, packed his equipment and containers and left. All in all a good experience but wasn't the spectacular meal we were hoping for this event. I think if we do this in the future we will look for someone who has an assistant with them to help serve, pay attention to the wine, etc.

Phil Smith

Chef James was absolutely amazing. Not only did he save the day by being available on short notice, but his engagement and attention to detail were truly outstanding. Before the dinner, we had a call to review the menu where he thoughtfully guided us through every choice ... down to the type of cheese we preferred, and even made excellent wine recommendations. Our anniversary dinner was spectacular and easily one of the best meals we’ve ever had. Everything was prepared with incredible care, and Chef James made the experience even more special by sharing tips, instructions, and demonstrations while he cooked. He was warm, personable, and professional throughout the evening. Simply wonderful...highly recommend! ????️✨

Candice Julien

James was awesome very personable and the food was delicious. He was able to cater to my wife's needs! It was just what we needed a relaxing night filled with delicious food and good conversation that didn't intrude on our special night.

Malakai Hofman

Great

Keith Morris

Awesome time with James - he's very legit and it was money well spent.

Jonathan Kogel

James was wonderful to work with. He was prompt and worked with me to create a Thanksgiving menu for a large family trip. He handled everything and we were able to relax and enjoy the day. The quality of the food was top tier. In addition to Thanksgiving, James made us a lunch taco bar with really delicious meats and toppings. I recommend James as a private chef.

Christie Pelley

We were blessed to have James for our 4+ day client retreat. His dishes were delicious and outside the norm (we very much appreciated the amount of time he put into each meal)! We would hire him back again in a heartbeat for future retreats. Everyone raved about his dishes and if my clients are happy, I’m happy. I also appreciated his flexibility regarding using leftovers in unique ways. His ceviche is off the charts! All so very good. Thank you, James!

Kari Schwear

James did a phenomenal job recreating a multi-generational family tradition. We celebrated an early Thanksgiving with family and had a very specific, dietary restrictive group. My family said it was very special and indistinguishable from their tried-n-true tradition. To be able to honor their tradition and get it all just right was a very special gift. We are very thankful.

Melissa Wright