My mission is simple: serve delicious, locally sourced food
Hi I’m Chase Elder
Hospitality has been a core part of my life for over 25 years. I cook because I love it, and because I can’t seem to stop…
Cooking and eating are places of joy and pleasure for me. I am so lucky that I get to do it as my profession. Each menu I write is a gift that I get to share with you.
The relationships I form with farmers, fisherfolk, and local businesses feel like home. Dishes created through hard work, thoughtfulness and nourishing ingredients bring love to your table.
I live a life beyond my wildest dreams and I look forward to sharing it with you.
A Favorite Recipe
Summertime in Ojai is the best with the abundance of local produce. Working with an amazing selection from stone fruit to tomatoes, proves we’ve got the best!
SERVICES
PRIVATE CHEF
Whether it be a dinner party, detox cleanse, or just because life gets crazy and sometimes you need an extra hand, I've got you covered!
In addition to cooking for you, I can also cook with you! This is an option for someone who is looking to spice up their home cooking routine with a little coaching to improve your skills and organizational strategies!
INTIMATE EVENTS
I create custom menus for your intimate events at home or on location. My menus feature seasonal and local produce, seafood, and meats that encapsulate your favorite things!
We work together throughout this process to create a truly memorable experience.
CONSULTING
Opening a new restaurant, or revamping your current menu? We collaborate to design a menu that connects with your vision while using my industry expertise to create something unique, bright and delicious!
Staff training and mentoring is also available.
TESTIMONIALS
What they’re saying…
“How do I put our experience with Chase from Friend of Farmers into words. The experience was absolutely phenomenal. The food was thoughtful, delicious and stunning. The presentation and service were beyond compare. Chase is a pleasure to work with, so collaborative and really does put her heart and soul into her business. This can be felt with every bite! I would use Chase and Friend of Farmers over and over again! <3 Words do not do it justice!”
Reshma, St. Louis
“It was amazing, Chase! So beautiful, yummy, fresh, colorful, lovely, memorable AND done with such artistry! Thank you so very much for being who you are and doing what you do. It was a true pleasure to work with you as well. Thanks to joel & nico too!”
Kim, Ojai
"Chase is an exceptional and creative cook -- and she brings amazing energy with her everywhere she goes. We were so charmed to have her cook for our wedding. She worked with us to create a unique menu within the outline we set and added her flair and magic from there. The food was outstanding and our guests gave her a well deserved applause. She is super easy and professional to work with and a delight to have around. We're so grateful that she was a part of our wedding."
Grant, Los Angeles
“ I've had the pleasure of enjoying an intimate Friend of Farmer's meal on two separate occasions (both birthdays for friends in a group setting of 8 and 12 people) and I truly can't write enough good things about the food and the experience. Chase is an incredibly talented chef who is accommodating of all dietary restrictions and willing to go the extra mile to make sure all guests are happy. Her food is not only delicious but also beautifully presented and uniquely hers. Two of my favorite meals on the west coast were both in Ojai and both by Friend of Farmers.”
Trelawny, Los Angeles