Kelston MoorePrivate Chef in memphis, TN

New to HELMChef Kelston Moore blends Caribbean heritage with refined California technique

The Chef

The Story

Barbados-born Chef Kelston Moore blends Caribbean heritage with refined California technique, creating dishes that tell stories, his memories of culture, and connection. Moore traces his culinary roots back to his father, whose barbecue pigtails were legendary across Barbados, instilling in him an early appreciation for flavor, community, and the storytelling power of food.10 years on active duty in the United States Navy served as his start in culinary, cooking for thousands aboard an aircraft carrier. There, he honed his culinary skills, leadership, and efficiency under pressure, while exploring global flavors that continue to inspire his cuisine. Following his service, Moore overcame personal challenges including depression andpost-traumatic stress, and he now leverages his platform to support and raise awareness for fellow veterans.In 2018, Chef Kelston launched The Date Night Chef, offering bespoke culinary experiences,and in 2020 co-founded Bad Boyz of Culinary. A nonprofit empowering African American culinary professionals. His work as a leader of the non-profit is rooted in the empowerment of… and has been nationally recognized by Men’s Health magazine. Chef Kelston has served as Sous Chef at The St. Regis Deer Valley Resort and appeared on Food Network’s Chopped (June 20, 2023). He was also named Runner-Up “Best Chef” by San Diego Magazine in 2023. Then he made history as Chef de Cuisine at Fox Point Farms, San Diego County’s first agrihood farm‑to‑table restaurant. Here he collaborated closely with local farmers to craft seasonal, ingredient-driven tasting menus that supported the community's needs and helped support the driving force of the neighborhood. Chef Kelston Moore’s cuisine embodies a deep respect for heritage, community, and craftsmanship, combining bold, vibrant flavors with thoughtful technique to create experiences that are both grounded and elevated.

The Table

Gallery

Coverage

Where Kelston Moore Serves

Miami, FL · 25 miMiami, FL · 25 miNew York, NY · 25 miDallas, TX · 25 miAspen, CO 81611 · 25 miScottsdale, AZ · 25 miMalibu, CA · 25 miSan Diego, CA · 25 miHawaii · 25 miThe Hamptons, NY · 25 miMartha's Vineyard, Massachusetts · 25 miMartha's Vineyard, Massachusetts · 25 miChicago, IL · 25 miNashville, TN · 25 miMemphis, TN · 25 miAtlanta, GA · 25 mi

The Menu

Services & Pricing

$150 / guest+ 20% platform fee · Grocery minimum $35 / guestYour chef for the full day, cooking three meals in your home. Times and menus are planned with you as the menu is set. · 2–12 guestsReserve Kelston Moore →

20 guests maximum · Books up to 1 month in advance

Work History

March 2020 - Present

Private Chef · Private Chef (Various Locations) · world wide

Created and executed custom 3-6 course fine-dining experiences for private clients across the US, Hawaii, and Europe, managing all operations independently for up to 400 guests.

July 2024 - August 2025

Chef de Cuisine · Fox Point Farms (Haven) · Encinitas, CA

Led a team of 45, built a hyper-seasonal farm-to-table menu, cut labor costs from 30% to 13%, raised OpenTable rating to 4.6, and boosted check averages to $140.

May 2023 - July 2024

Multi-Outlet Senior Sous Chef · St. Regis Deer Valley (RIME / Brasserie 7452) · Park City, UT

Supported the head chef in menu planning and recipe development for two outlets serving American and French cuisine, developing dishes and training staff on new menus.

November 2018 - March 2020

Sous Chef · Heritage Dining & Provisions · Stockton, CA

Assisted in menu planning, recipe development, and food prep for a $4.5M catering and event venue while training staff and enforcing sanitation standards.

2008 - March 2018

Culinary Specialist · United States Navy · United States

Helped oversee culinary operations for 3 kitchens aboard the USS Carl Vinson serving 7,000 daily covers, managing inventory and consistently passing health inspections at 100%.

Education

2018Art Institute of San Antonio

Skills

CaribbeanFarm-to-TableFine DiningFrenchAmericanSeasonalPrivate DiningTasting Menusmediterranean

Accolades

Runner-Up for Best Chef, San Diego Magazine, 2023
"Chopped" Contestant, Food Network, 2023
Featured in Men's Health, 2021
Rising Chef, San Diego Tribune, 2022
Best Black Chef in San Diego (2020-2021)
All Navy Culinary Team, 2017
Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals

Every HELM Vendor Meets High Standards

We carefully evaluate chefs based on their culinary expertise, menu creativity, and proven track record for excellence.

Private dining with

Reserve Kelston Moore

from $150 / guest

+ 20% platform fee and groceries

2–12 guests · Books up to 1 month ahead

No charge today. Your card is charged the 30% deposit only if Kelston Moore accepts.

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