Private Chef Dinner Party with Michael Mina

Last month I photographed an intimate birthday dinner party with chef Michael Mina! I actually remember the first time I went to one of Michael Mina’s restaurants—it was in college, with my best friend, at The Westin, St. Francis. We would always splurge on fancy restaurants, because that’s what student loans were for, right?

My clients’ wishes for his 40th birthday was to have an intimate dinner party with his wife, kiddos, their parents and siblings, and the Chef was a surprise for all their guests! It was really beautiful and lovely to witness and document. It reminded me of how important my own family dinners are, and I left feeling so grateful for the experience. Chef Michael Mina was the kindest and what made the evening even more special is that his son was there as a sous chef—darling! And, if you’re wondering, we lucked out with a few tastings—so delicious. Isabella Sikaffy from Florabella Studios planned and designed the extraordinary event. With respect to their privacy, I’ve only included a couple intimate photos, but goodness, believe me when I say, they’re really special. Thank you for having me C&H, and Isabella!