TESTIMONIALS & PORTFOLIO

“Exceeded Our Expectations”

Deanna absolutely exceeded expectations as a chef for our women's retreat. We had a previous chef cancel just days in advance of our retreat and Deanna came in and truly saved the day with little notice and incredible quality.  Many participants said that the food was one of their favorite parts of the retreat. You can feel the love and intention that Deanna puts into her creations, it is truly artistry.  She is conscious of the origin of every ingredient. Her energy is so grounded and calming as well, it is an absolute pleasure to be in her presence. We are so excited to have her back for another retreat in just a couple of months! 

— Erica Tait, LCSW, LCADC
Quantum Psychotherapy Group

“It couldn’t have been anyone else”

Deanna’s food was pure medicine. Receiving the level of care, intention and heart she poured into every aspect of creation was so special for us, and it was dearly recognized. I feel this is just the beginning of collaborating with her and bringing magic to life together. Her energy with every meal was felt and appreciated during the journey of our retreat.. it couldn’t have been anyone else. Everything was absolutely delicious and my body felt so deeply nourished and cared for the entire time.
Thank you so much

— LaVina Iyana
Somatic Alchemy & Shamanic Healing

“The food wasn’t just nourishing—it was a true sensory experience”

I recently had the pleasure of meeting Chef Deanna Amodeo and experiencing the nourishing meals she so beautifully curates. Chef Deanna prepared an Ayurvedic menu for a weekend-long yoga retreat that I recently attended in the Catskills. The retreat was held on an organic farm, and Chef Deanna seamlessly incorporated the farm’s fresh vegetables into every dish she created. It was nothing short of extraordinary. Each meal was thoughtfully crafted, from the combination of flavors to the vibrant color presentations. Deanna took the time to describe each dish before we ate, which made the experience feel even more personal and meaningful.

The food wasn’t just nourishing—it was a true sensory experience. It was a magical weekend that inspired not only a deeper appreciation for mindful eating but also a desire to cook with more intention at home. What truly stood out to me was her dedication to sustainability. At the end of the weekend, Chef Deanna shared that she had used every plant, herb, vegetable, and piece of food to its fullest potential, so nothing went to waste. Her commitment to reducing waste and honoring the ingredients made me more mindful of my own cooking practices. I typically order takeout because it’s quick and easy, I have felt inspired to get into the kitchen myself—and I’ve been cooking every night since returning home. If you're looking for a private chef or catering for an event, I cannot recommend Chef Deanna Amodeo enough. Her combination of skill, creativity, and attention to every plate she serves truly exceeds expectations. I’m looking forward to attending more of her events and signing up for any courses she offers!

— Lisa Tosado

Portfolio

Testimonials Continued

  • Deanna is an extraordinary chef whose deep love for local ingredients and vast expertise with herbs and spices shine through in every dish. As the Kitchen Nonna at the retreat where we met, I eagerly anticipated each meal she prepared. Her cooking sparked something beyond a love for food—it opened my eyes to the sacredness and intention behind it. She has an earthy presence that mirrors the natural ingredients she works with, bringing a deep sense of connection to everything she creates.

    Alex Lettieri

  • Cannot say enough amazing things about Deanna! From the food, to the love and care put into everything, and even their demeanor and willingness to teach and connect on what was served to us, absolutely amazing!

    Daylin Hull

  • Deanna is lovely and radiant. She pours her soul and beautiful energy into every single delicious meal. I've never felt so nourished as I did eating her food.

    Rinat Heller

  • I had the pleasure of enjoying Deanna’s cooking all weekend, and it was truly a magical experience! Every meal, from breakfast to dinner, was not only incredibly delicious but also natural, creative, and so healthy. Almost everything was sourced from local farms, and you could taste the freshness and care in every bite. As someone who is usually a picky eater, I was amazed by how much I enjoyed everything, especially her incredible pesto sauce and the breakfast quiches, which were my absolute favorites. Deanna’s knowledge and talent in the kitchen are remarkable. Her passion for creating wholesome, flavorful dishes really shines through. She has a true gift, and I feel so lucky to have experienced it!

    Jennifer Brown

  • Deanna is an AMAZING woman who brings such energy, thoughtfulness, planning, and intuition into creating works of art with food. I have had the pleasure and honor of attending two retreats where Deanna was the cook. The first one blew my mind with all the amazing flavors, thoughtful food sourcing, and beautifully created nourishing meals. I went into the second retreat knowing that the food would be one of the best parts. Deanna did not disappoint!! I am just amazed at how such rich flavors can be created with everyday foods. In addition, knowing how carefully sourced these foods are and how much Deanna takes into account how each specific food nourishes the body is mind blowing. Every meal time I was in wonder at how Deanna seemed to find the perfect meal to nourish our bodies in the way that was needed at that specific time. I could go on forever… this woman makes delicious meals that are good for your body, mind, and soul. That is no small feat. Thank you, Deanna!!

    Bernadette Gardner

  • It was so evident that she cooked not just with her hands but with her entire being ❤️ I cannot recommend Chef Deanna highly enough for anyone seeking not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience that speaks to the power of food made with love. Thank you, Chef Deanna, for sharing your talent and passion with at the retreat and the world. Your food truly touched my heart and always leaves me craving for more

    Beatriz Wawra

  • Wow. It’s hard to even come up with words to articulate the amount of love and intention Deanna puts into her work. I have had the pleasure to be nourished by her food on two retreats and it has changed my relationship with it. The amount of care and reverence she has for the ingredients she purchases is so special. Hearing her speak about the why behind each ingredient lights me up. Then tasting it all!! Each bite is delightful. I cannot wait to cross paths with her kind kitchen nonna heart again.

    Dana Cangro

  • Deanna not only is an incredibly gifted chef, she is also a lovely human being! She provided us with such nourishing, delicious, thoughtful meals for our 4 day retreat. I am still learning thinking about the apple cobbler she made for breakfast! She is so knowledgeable, talented and caring! Highly recommend her for all of your catering needs!

    Erin Shimkin

  • I have had the honor of experiencing and enjoying Deanna’s amazing dishes at two different retreats. All dishes were superb! The highest quality of ingredients, preparation and execution. Not only do the taste amazing, they leave your body feeling nourished and energized. Deanna is a beautiful person and it shines in her food and products, which I purchased and use daily. ❤️

    Michele Marason

  • Deanna is an excellent chef. I felt very nourished on my yoga retreat. My favorite dish was her pumpkin curry soup, which I dream about today. Her dishes give you a glow inside and out. She sourced organic vegetables from the farm the retreat was located on and created beautiful spreads. All that comes to mind when I think of her perfectly prepared meals is nourishment. My mind, body, and spirit felt nourished. I'd stuff my plate to the brim and still feel like I could climb a mountain. Her dishes are light, airy, and tasty. My tastebuds danced every time I took a bite of her food. I enjoyed how she talked about the food's warming and cooling properties as well as how it affects our gut biome. Deanna is very knowledgeable and skilled in the areas of Ayurvedic cooking, and wellness. Chef Deanna's cooking is a must-try if you're looking for tasty, nutritious food that elevates your mind, body, and spirit. Thank you!

    Aurora Foberg