Kostas Parasyris
My name is Kostas Parasyris, and my cooking is rooted in my taste memories, the quality of raw ingredients, seasonality, my connection to nature, and strong technical knowledge. I am drawn to flavors that last — the kind you remember, leaving you with a complete and harmonious experience.
I studied at the private culinary institute Le Monde in Athens, where I earned my diploma as a Culinary Arts Specialist. I then worked at the Belvedere Boutique Hotel in Mykonos, where I was responsible for the full kitchen operation. Later, I had the opportunity to work alongside Chef Daniel Boulud at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park in London, specifically at Bar Boulud. There, I worked across all kitchen stations, gaining invaluable experience and a deep understanding of the importance of detail — a principle that continues to define my work today.
In 2017, I consciously returned to Crete to create the “Private Chef Experience.” My goal was to offer visitors a true taste of Cretan cuisine, just as I experienced it growing up. Honest, unpretentious, and focused on quality. An experience built on the essence of Mediterranean and Cretan gastronomy.
I was born in Canada and moved back to Crete at the age of seven. I grew up with a father from a mountain village in Crete and a mother of Pontic origin. Food at home always had a story. I remember my father gathering vegetables from the garden and herbs from the mountains, and my mother preparing unforgettable dishes. These memories form the foundation of every menu I create.
Today, a large part of our ingredients comes from our own produce and trusted local farmers. All menus are based on our family’s extra virgin olive oil and the wild herbs of the Cretan land, which we carefully harvest with respect for seasonality and nature.
Along this journey, my team was formed. We share the same philosophy, the same attention to detail, and the same love for thoughtfully prepared food. Our experience and expertise in what we do make our guests feel comfortable from the very first moment. Together, we transform culinary inspiration into experiences that flow naturally, allowing guests to truly relax and enjoy.
For me, every dinner is an experience of simplicity and essence — a table set not just to dine, but to be lived and enjoyed.
My cuisine is an expression of Cretan and Mediterranean tradition, enhanced by refined techniques that highlight each ingredient and every dish. Every meal is accompanied by its own story of preparation.
With discretion, warmth, and professionalism, we ensure an experience that leaves a lasting impression — a taste to remember and a moment you will want to relive.
With Culinary Regards,
Chef Kostas Parasiris