Hi! I’m Chef Deja, owner of Culinary Character.
I specialize in personalized culinary experiences that make life easier, healthier, and more enjoyable. From weekly meal prep and family chef services to private dinners, cooking classes, and special events, every menu is thoughtfully customized to fit your needs and preferences.
My approach combines scratch-made cooking, quality ingredients, and bold flavors inspired by a variety of cuisines. Whether you’re looking to save time, eat healthier, entertain guests, or celebrate a special occasion, I’m here to create a memorable experience through food.
Overview
Hired 36 times
Background checked
4 employees
8 years in business
Business hours
Sun5:00 am - 10:00 pmMon5:00 am - 10:00 pm
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Cash, Credit card, and PayPal.
Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, professionalism, and responsiveness.
Great 4.8
36 reviews
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Read reviews that mention:
Tracy S.
Jul 19, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
Deja made the class so much fun and Keating it flowing with ease. Food was magnificent too!
Details: 6 - 10 people • Japanese • Italian • French • Mediterranean • I'm flexible • No dietary restrictions • Adult (over 18) • Intermediate • My home, venue, etc.
Private Cooking Lessons
Alan P.
Mar 5, 2023
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Hired on Thumbtack
Deja did a cooking class for my daughter and her friends for her birthday. She came so prepared with everything and even had aprons for the kids. They had a great time!
Details: 3 - 5 people • American • Basic cooking skills • No dietary restrictions • Child (under 13) • Beginner • My home, venue, etc.
Private Cooking Lessons
Richard A.
Jan 15, 2024
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Hired on Thumbtack
Title: Culinary Character: A Flavorful Adventure with Deja
Review:
I recently had the pleasure of experiencing Culinary Character, helmed by the talented Deja, for my little brother's bachelor party. From the very beginning, it was clear that this was going to be more than just a catering service; it was a culinary journey.
Deja, with over 5 years of professional experience, brings a unique blend of gourmet fusion food that is not only inspired by various cultures but is also executed with simplicity and attractiveness. Before the event, we had a detailed discussion about our preferences, and I was impressed by the custom-made menu options that were tailored to accommodate the needs of our gathering.
The service provided by Deja and her team was top-notch. They arrived at our AirBnB rental fully equipped with groceries and an infectiously positive attitude. The entire process, from meal preparation to serving, was handled with utmost professionalism and skill.
Each meal - breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even dessert - was a masterpiece. The dishes were packed with flavor, and the portions were generously sized. Deja's cooking ensures that you're not just satisfied, but pleasantly full. A fun fact indeed – you won't be left hungry after Deja's culinary creations!
Post-meal, the team’s efficiency continued to shine. They cleaned up impeccably and even took care of the trash, leaving our space as tidy as they found it. Their friendly demeanor and great attitudes made our experience, especially in our post-party hangover state, extremely pleasant and enjoyable.
If you're on the lookout for exceptional culinary services, I can't recommend Deja and Culinary Character enough. It's not just about the food; it's about the experience, the flavors, and the memories you create. Book with Deja, and you're in for a treat that goes beyond the plate!
Details: Special occasion (birthday, anniversary, etc.) • 3 - 5 guests • Breakfast / brunch • Lunch • Dinner • Dessert • Standard (basic ingredients) • American - formal • I'm flexible • A few times per day • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Personal Chef
Cory G.
Oct 3, 2022
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Hired on Thumbtack
Deja was absolutely amazing to say the least. I used her services to surprise my wife for her bday.
Deja communicated back and forth with me in a timely manner and presented me with everything I needed to make a decision to use her services before making any form of a payment.
Deja showed up to my event right on time as expected. She entertained my wife and I with conversation as she prepared our meal.
Deja has a gift when it comes to cooking. Her food is not only good, but you can tell she puts alot of thought into her food as well. It wasn't too salty, nor was it too bland. Her food was perfectly seasoned, and well presented. We took pictures because we thought her food was really cute as well. She also ensures to cook plenty, we had enough for us to both get full again the next day. I told Deja my wife was pregnant, so she took the time to also prepare us a really good non-alcoholic beverage, and my wife absolutely loved it.
Deja was able to maneuver around our kitchen and use everything she needed which made our meal feel really homey. She also cleaned up behind herself and put everything back where she found it.
I highly recommend her. She's really good. Her cooking is the TRUTH!
Details: Special occasion (birthday, anniversary, etc.) • 2 guests • Dinner • Standard (basic ingredients) • Cold beverages (non-alcoholic) • Italian • Southern • Meal prepared onsite • Only once • My home, venue, etc.
Personal Chef
Bukky R.
Mar 5, 2023
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Hired on Thumbtack
Excellent! My guests were impressed. She came on time dropped off and told me what to do. Within minutes my home smelled like I’ve been cooking all day. I had plenty of left over. Will contact her again. Don’t hesitate book her.
Details: Regular meal • 11 - 20 guests • Dessert • Lunch • Cocktail hour / hors d'oeuvres • Standard (basic ingredients) • Cold beverages (non-alcoholic) • Dessert • Southern • Italian • American - casual • Meal delivered • Monthly • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Personal Chef
Credentials
Background Check
Deja Taylor
FAQs
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
From inquiry to booking:
1. Introduction of project in question
2. Sample menu's sent
3. Once menu is agreed upon, quote is sent
4. Invoice + Service Agreement emailed
5. 50% Deposit due - confirmation via email and blocked off calendar on Thumbtack
6. Confirmation 24hrs prior to job
7. We take you on a culinary experience!