Chef Dan Castro

Personal Chef in Austin

I emigrated to Los Angeles at 13 years old. I got exposed to basic cuisines like Panda Express, Tacos, and all sorts of foods. It was a cultural shock.

I went to the Culinary Institute of America for my scholarship. Here, I learned how to cook food using French techniques while being exposed to many other aspects of the food industry and various cuisines.

After I graduated from the Culinary Institute of America, I worked at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colorado for 3 years. I worked multiple rotations from banquet cooking, brasseries, taverns, pub style cooking, baking and pastry.

I then went to Uchiko here in Austin, and worked as a line cook and ending my tenure there as a sushi chef. Here, I learned not only cooking techniques but how to handle guests at the sushi bar as well, and this is how I approach a lot of my parties - with genuine hospitality and delicious food, which leads to a great night.

For me, cooking is...

a love language. We do it to take care of the people around us as a basic need and as we celebrate people, I want to put out my best for that day.

I learned to cook at...

-The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York - The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs - Uchi/Uchiko, Austin TX

A cooking secret...

Work clean and drink a lot of water. If you look good, you cook good, and if you cook good, the clients pay well.

My menus

Chef Dan's Exclusive Mediterranean Party

STARTER

Choose 1 dish

Truffled Burrata, Grilled Sourdough, Tomatoes

Lobster, Citrus-Coriander Dressing

Seared Foie Gras, Cherries, Pistachios, Date Puree

FIRST COURSE

Choose 1 dish

Oysters with Preserved Lemon

Caviar Taramosalata with Lavash Chips

Seared Scallops with Saffron Beurre Blanc

MAIN COURSE

Choose 1 dish

Chilean Sea Bass with Artichoke Barigoule

Beef Ribeye with Truffle-Tahini Puree

Octopus A La Plancha with Black Garlic Aioli

DESSERT

Choose 1 dish

Baklava Mille-Feuille

Molten Chocolate Cake, Sesame Ice Cream, Sesame Brittle

Rosewater and Champagne Sorbet

Chef Dan's Indulgent Southern Menu

STARTER

All inclusive

Charred Bokchoy, Miso Butter, Popcorn Grits, Cashews

Custom Starter - Inquire In Chat

FIRST COURSE

Choose 1 dish

Blackened Catfish, Garlic Kale, Crispy Rice Cake

Custom First Course - Inquire In Chat

MAIN COURSE

Choose 1 dish

Five Spice Duck Breast, Beets, Swiss Chard, Cornbread Crumble, Plum Sauce

Custom Entree Option - Inquire In Chat

DESSERT

Choose 1 dish

Matcha Cheesecake, Pecan Praline Crust, Strawberry Compote

Custom Dessert Option - Inquire In Chat

Alyssa's Birthday Menu

STARTER

Choose 1 dish

FIRST COURSE

Choose 2 dishes

Tuna Sashimi, Apple, Pistachio, Green Onion Salsa

Salmon Sashimi, Oranges, Tom Kha Coconut Sauce

Red Curry Shrimp Cocktail, Avocado, Chips and Salsa

Beef Kimbap, Peanut Sauce

Spicy Tuna Roll, Avocado, Jalapeno, Cucumber, Spicy Mayonnaise

Butter Poached Lobster, Tamarind Risotto, Green Beans and Cherry Tomatoes

MAIN COURSE

Choose 1 dish

Salmon, Grilled Squash, Tomato Jam, Bearnaise

New York Strip, Blackened Honey, Charred Snap Peas, Green Curry

Roasted Chicken, Corn Puree, Cherry Tomato Salad, Chili Oil

DESSERT

Choose 1 dish

Yuzu Olive Oil Cake, Burnt Peaches and Honey Cream

Ube Tres Leches, Spiced Mango Compote, Lemongrass Cream

Upside Down Pineapple Cake, Lychee Sorbet

Chef Dan's Exclusively Texas Menu

STARTER

Choose 1 dish

Jalapeno Cornbread Madeline with Honey Butter

Fried Green Tomatoes with Herb Remoulade

Texas Gulf Shrimp Cocktail

FIRST COURSE

Choose 1 dish

Tortilla Soup with Avocado and Cotija

Heirloom Tomato Salad with Texas Olive Oil

Wild Mushroom and Poblano Empanada

MAIN COURSE

Choose 1 dish

Texas Wagyu Ribeye with Chimichurri Butter and Charred Broccolini

Fried Quail and Corn Polenta with Sauteed Greens

Gulf Red Snapper Veracruz, Stewed Tomatoes, Spanish Rice

DESSERT

Choose 1 dish

Prickly Pear Sorbet

Texas Bourbon Chocolate Tart, Pecan Brittle

Honey-Lavender Tres Leches Cake

Marc's Birthday Dinner

STARTER

All inclusive

FIRST COURSE

Choose 2 dishes

Ahi Tuna Sashimi, Avocado Puree, Radish, Apples, Salsa Macha

Salmon Sashimi, Green Goddess, Citrus, Root Potato Chips

Hamachi Sashimi, Bell Pepper and Jicama Relish, Mango Puree

Spicy Tuna Roll, Avocado, Jalapeno, Cucumber, Spicy Mayonnaise

Tropical Salmon Roll, Mango, Avocado, Pickled Bell Pepper, Grilled Green Onion, Cilantro

Shrimp Tempura Roll, Peanut Sauce

MAIN COURSE

Choose 1 dish

New York Strip, Confit Potatoes and Garlic, Tomato-Bell Pepper Sauce

Tamarind Salmon, Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Chinese Sausage, Cauliflower Puree

Filipino Chicken Adobo, Lemongrass Turmeric Rice, Garlic Bokchoy

DESSERT

Choose 1 dish

Ube Tres Leches, Charred Pineapple, Lemongrass Cream

Thai Tea Creme Brulee

Matcha Tiramisu

Kelsy's Argentinian Party!

STARTER

All inclusive

FIRST COURSE

Choose 2 dishes

Argentenian Beef Empanadas - Ground Beef, Onions, Hardboiled Eggs, Chimichurri

Provoleta A La Parilla - Grilled Provolone, Roasted Tomato, Oregano, Grilled Bread

Chorizo Al Vino Tinto - Argentine Sausage, Malbec Reduction

Grilled Octotopus, Smoked Paprika, Roasted Peppers, Salsa Criolla, Charred Lemon

Burrata and Grilled Peaches, Arugula, Toasted Almonds, Balsamic, Olive Oil

MAIN COURSE

Choose 1 dish

Please Pick One Protein and Two Sides

PROTEIN: Churrasco De Pollo - Grilled Chicken Breast, Brown Butter and Paprika Sweet Potato Puree, Roasted Garlic

PROTEIN: Grilled Salmon, Cilantro Lime Rice, Roasted Tomatoes, Lemon

PROTEIN: Argentine Style Grilled Ribeye, Chimichurri, Malbec Reduction

SIDE: Crispy Roasted Potatoes, Garlic, Parsley, Olive Oil

SIDE: Sweet Potato Puree, Brown Butter, Smoked Paprika

SIDE: Cilantro Lime Rice

SIDE: Grilled Zucchini, peppers, Onions, Eggplant

SIDE: Roasted Carrots with Honey, Cumin, Parsley and Whipped Yogurt

SIDE: Roasted Broccolini, Garlic, Lemon, Toasted Almonds and Chili

SIDE: Grilled Corn, Cotija, Smoked Parika, Lime, Herb Crema

DESSERT

Choose 1 dish

Flan, Whipped Cream, Berries, Sea Salt

Argentine Lemon Tart - Lemon Curd, Toasted Meringue

Dulce De Leche Panna Cotta, Roasted Hazelnuts, Cocoa Crumble

Chef Dan's Simple Seafood/Fish Menu

STARTER

Choose 1 dish

FIRST COURSE

Choose 2 dishes

Ahi Tuna Sashimi, Avocado Puree, Radish, Apples, Salsa Macha

Salmon Sashimi, Citrus, Green Goddess Dressing, Root Potato Chips

Hamachi Sashimi, Cucumber and Bell Pepper Relish, Mango Puree

Butter Poached Lobster Tail, Coucous, Citrus Coriander Dressing

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail, Guacamole, Chips and Salsa

Spicy Tuna Roll, Avocado, Jalapeno, Cucumber, Spicy Mayonnaise

MAIN COURSE

Choose 1 dish

Miso Glazed Halibut, Carrots, Broccolini, Wild Rice

Crispy Skin Salmon, Bacon Brussels Sprouts, Cauliflower Puree

Seafood Bouillabaise with Mussels, Clams, Cod, Garlic Bread

DESSERT

Choose 1 dish

White Chocolate Mousse, Yuzu Marmalade

Lychee Panna Cotta, Vanilla Ice Cream, Strawberries

Matcha Tiramisu

Chef Dan's Indulgent Mediterranean Party

STARTER

All inclusive

FIRST COURSE

Choose 2 dishes

Smoked Sausage, Paprika Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, Roasted Peppers, Salsa Verde and Lemon

Potato Chip Spanish Tortilla, Jamon Iberico

Chicken Croquettes, Onion Gravy

Beef Albondigas and Mushrooms

Pork Ribs and Sherry Glaze

MAIN COURSE

All inclusive

New York Strip, Whipped Feta, Chimichurri, Crispy Onions, Roasted Fingerling Potatoes and Grilled Broccolini

Chicken and Vegetable Paella - Saffron Bomba Rice, Chicken, Peas, Asparagus

DESSERT

Choose 1 dish

Olive Oil Citrus Cake, Lemon and Orange Zest, Marscarpone Whipped Cream, Candied Citrus

Chocolate and Coffee Tiramisu

Basque Cheesecake with Macerated Berries, Orange Blossom Whipped Cream and Toasted Pistachios

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Chef Dan's reviews

4.8

•

113 services

Chef Dan was truly the highlight of our bachelorette weekend! We booked him through Take a Chef, and he created an unforgettable five-course Asian-inspired dinner with hand-rolled sushi, dumplings, miso-glazed salmon, and the most incredible chocolate sesame cake. Every course was beautifully plated, bursting with flavor, and felt like a fine dining experience brought right into our home. From the moment he arrived to prep, the kitchen filled with the most incredible aromas. He seamlessly accommodated allergies and dietary requests so everyone could enjoy every bite, and his attention to detail was unmatched. One of our favorite surprises was that he asked about the bride ahead of time and brought a vinyl record from one of her favorite artists—a thoughtful touch that made the evening feel even more magical. As if the food wasn't enough, Chef Dan left the kitchen absolutely spotless. The entire experience was effortless from start to finish, and our group is still talking about the meal. If you're considering booking Chef Dan, do it—you won't regret it. We couldn't recommend him more highly!

we would highly recommend Chef Dan! the communication was great from start to finish, he was friendly and professional. The menu he prepared matched so well with our vision, and Dan took care to add personal touches and create a customized experience. The food was outstanding. It was so nice to have everything taken care of from the supplies, the cooking, serving, table setting and dishes!

From the first response I received to my inquiry on takeachef, I knew Chef Dan Castro would be the one to provide my family with a very special dinner. I rented a house in Blanco, TX to spend family time for my birthday. I requested a hibachi-style meal as my grandchildren and adult children love this cuisine. Chef Dan provided a menu for me to preview and he allowed me to give input . . . The final menu was perfect! And, Chef Dan continued to provide an experience that exceeded expectations. He prepared and served us the most wonderfully delicious meal. I’m grateful from the bottom of my heart for Chef Dan making my birthday celebration with my family a memory that will last a lifetime.

We had an absolutely wonderful experience with Chef Dan. He was incredibly professional and so patient throughout the entire planning process. On the day of the event, everything went seamlessly — from the setup, to the timing, to the presentation. The food was truly delicious, and the service was exceptional. We were so impressed, and we couldn’t have asked for a smoother or more enjoyable experience. Highly recommend!

Wow. All I can saybis WOW! I put in a proposal and Chef Dan responded with the best menu I have ever seen. I asked for a Friendsgiving and he delivered. Not only was the food delicious, but the service was probably the best I have ever received. He and his partner made the dinner memorable for me and my friends, and I can’t wait to have him back next year. Not a single detail was left out. And even included an added bonus. It was a night that I will never forget and neither one of my friends. Thank you Chef Dan for making it so special.

Chef Dan blew us away! His menu/food was incredible and he went above and beyond on presentation to ensure our evening felt special. We will absolutely be booking with him again.

Chef Dan was very nice, the food was really good.

Both Chef Dan & Jenna were excellent - very professional and the dinner was delicious.

I booked Chef Dan Castro for a family Memorial Day weekend dinner. This was a truly wonderful experience! Dan catered the menu to a very picky crowd and everyone was impressed! The flavors were so original and delicious. He interpreted his Filipino culture into the meal flawlessly and the dishes were creative and one of a kind. He was also took the time to explain each course and engage in conversations with the group. I couldn’t have been happier with the experience he provided and he left the kitchen spotless too. We even had leftovers! I would book Dan again in the future without a second thought!

We had Chef Dan cook dinner for us during a bachelor party trip to Austin, and it couldn’t have been better. The smoked brisket tacos and blackened catfish were unreal — easily the highlight meal of the trip. Chef Dan made everything super easy, kept the vibe relaxed, and left the place spotless. Would absolutely book again.

What a treat to enjoy such high end foods at home while being able to be hands off and absorb the experience

Chef Dan was great. He did a sushi class for us, brought all the gear we’d need. Each of us produced at least 1 respectable roll by the end of the night. Everything was delicious and he was a good hang. We’ll likely do a philipino feast with him in the future. Thank you!!!

Chef Dan was incredible. 10/10 would recommend. I couldn't have asked for anything more. The food was great.

Chef Dan was amazing! I would 100% recommend booking this experience. Not only was the food delicious, everything was thoughtfully curated together. He went above and beyond to ensure that we had a great experience!

Our experience with Chef Dan was outstanding. The food was top notch and presented so beautifully. We were so well taken care of. We didn’t have to lift a finger! It was like dining at a 5 star restaurant in the convenience of your home. We also got a cooking demonstration along with all the amazing food. That was really fun! And communication throughout was perfect. I would do this again in a heart beat. All of our guests raved about it and wanted to know where I found him. Wonderful experience!!!

Great experience for any special occasion

Chef Dan has a great sense of humor and is a pro at his craft. We enjoyed our time with him and the food was awesome!!

Chef Dan and his team exceeded expectations! The team was both highly professional and personable. They provided a Michelin-quality experience right at home. The food was incredible! If I have the opportunity to do it again, Chef Dan will be the first person I call.

Chef Dan did a terrific job. The food was amazing. Service was also very good. We did have a few small bumps along the way but the overall experience was great. Chef Dan was very responsive throughout the entire process including letting me know he was on his way the night of. The presentation of food was fabulous as were the dishes themselves. He and his assistant did a very good job of clean up afterward. Definitely a good experience overall and I will do it again.

Chef Dan was amazing! Everyone had a great time and raved about the food and the overall experience!