Chef Isabel Ortega
Chef At Home in Saratoga Springs
Get to know me better
Latina chef with a passion for Mediterranean and Latin cuisine, known for detail, creativity, and leaving every guest saying ‘Soo good!’
I’m Chef "Isa" (Isabel), a Latina chef with a culinary school background and over 15 years of experience creating unforgettable dishes. I specialize in Mediterranean cuisine and Latin American flavors, using only the cleanest, local, and organic ingredients. I’m now based in the Saratoga Springs, NY area, but I’ve also been featured on Latin American cooking shows broadcasted from Miami and recognized as one of Miami’s standout Latina chefs. Some say my attention to detail borders on obsessive — but it’s reflected in every bite. My private chef journey began in Miami and Fort Lauderdale, where I served everything from cozy family dinners to events in multimillion-dollar mansions, always with the same level of love and care. As I now enjoy serving in upstate New York in the Saratoga Springs, NY area as my husband, a Medical Doctor, finishes his training, and together we provide a private chef experience that combines exquisite taste with health-conscious precision (i.e. allergies and dietary restrictions).

More about me
For me, cooking is...
a way of bringing joy, health, and connection to the table. Every dish I make is filled with intention—to delight, nourish, and create unforgettable
I learned to cook at...
I studied culinary arts in Colombia and refined my craft through years of experience in top Mediterranean kitchens and Latin events across Miami.
A cooking secret...
Precision. I believe that the smallest details make the biggest difference—from the temperature of the pan to the source of each organic ingredient.
My menus
Spiedini Caprese – Skewers of mozzarella, tomato, and basil with balsamic glaze
Bruschetta al Pomodoro – Toasted baguette topped with fresh tomato, garlic, and basil
Insalata di Primavera – Arugula salad with caramelized peaches, feta, and balsamic drizzle
Antipasto Rustico – A charcuterie board of Italian cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments
Cozze al Vino Bianco – Mussels simmered in white wine with tomato, garlic, and herbs
Vongole alla Marinara – Clams in marinara sauce with a touch of white wine and herbs
Tortellini alla Alfredo con Pollo – Stuffed tortellini in a creamy Alfredo sauce with grilled chicken and herbs
Pollo alla Marsala – Pan-seared chicken with mushrooms in a rich Marsala wine sauce, served with pasta
Pollo alla Parmigiana – Breaded chicken cutlet with marinara and melted mozzarella over pasta
Pasta al Pomodoro – Classic fresh tomato and basil pasta with parmesan
Pasta al Pesto con Pollo – Fusilli or penne with homemade basil pesto, cherry tomatoes, and grilled chicken
Pasta Mediterranea - Pasta of your choice tossed with sautéed mussels, clams, shrimp in a fresh Pomodoro sauce with garlic, basil, and parmesan, served with Chef Isa’s signature same-day baked garlic bread, toasted to perfection
Crème Brûlée alla Vaniglia – Italian-style vanilla custard with a caramelized sugar crust
Panna Cotta al Limone – Silky lemon-infused cream set to perfection and topped with zest or fresh berries
Tiramisù Classico – Espresso-soaked ladyfingers with mascarpone cream and cocoa
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Totopos con salsa roja taquera – Crunchy corn tortilla chips served with classic Mexican red salsa made from roasted tomato, guajillo chile, garlic, and spices
Guacamole con tomate y jalapeño tatemados – Creamy avocado with fire-roasted tomato and jalapeño for a smoky, mildly spicy flavor (serrano chile available for extra heat). Served with corn chips
Esquites (maíz en vasito) – Tender corn kernels sautéed with butter and epazote, served in small cups with fresh cheese, light mayo, chili powder, and lime
Arroz mexicano – Traditional Mexican rice cooked with tomato and spices
Frijoles refritos – Creamy refried beans topped with fresh cheese
Mesa de salsas variadas – Salsa bar including red taquera salsa, green tomatillo salsa, pico de gallo, creamy avocado salsa, and mango-chile salsa
Taco de Pollo al Cilantro y Limón – Chicken taco marinated in cilantro and lime
Taco de Res (Carne Asada) – Grilled beef taco with traditional Mexican seasoning
Taco de Camarón al Chipotle – Shrimp taco in a smoky chipotle sauce
Taco de Birria con Consomé – Slow-braised beef birria taco served with rich dipping broth
Quesadillas de Pollo Marinado al Tomate – Tomato-marinated chicken with melted cheese, grilled to crispy perfection, served with sour cream and pico de gallo
Enchiladas Verdes de Pollo – Chicken enchiladas topped with tangy green tomatillo sauce
Enchiladas Rojas de Carne o Queso – Red enchiladas filled with beef or cheese, smothered in a mildly spiced red chile sauce
Chef Isa’s Signature Crème Brûlée – A Miami favorite. Rich and silky, delicately caramelized, and topped with 24-karat edible gold dust
Oreo Cheesecake – Creamy homemade cheesecake on a buttery Oreo crust, blended with crunchy Oreo crumbles and topped with rich organic chocolate sauce
Arroz Cremoso de los Andes - Creamy rice infused with cinnamon, coconut, brandy-soaked raisins, lemon zest, and cubes of salty Colombian cheese. A sweet tribute to Chef Isa's roots, with a gourmet twist
Flan casero de vainilla con caramelo – Homemade vanilla flan with rich caramel topping
Chocolate Lava Cake – A warm, rich chocolate cake with a molten center, topped with powdered sugar, fresh raspberry, and raspberry sauce
Lemon Posset Brûlée – A luxuriously smooth lemon cream dessert with the brightness of fresh citrus, finished with a crisp caramelized sugar crust for the perfect balance of tart and sweet
Knafeh de Pistacho – Shredded phyllo pastry baked until golden and crisp, layered with soft sweet cheese and soaked in a warm orange-blossom syrup. Topped with crushed pistachios for a delicate, nutty finish
Tiramisú Clásico – Espresso-soaked ladyfingers layered with whipped mascarpone cream and dusted with cocoa — an Italian classic with bold, silky charm
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Multicolor Caprese Skewers – Cherry tomatoes in various colors, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves, served with house balsamic reduction
Chef Isa-Style Mushroom Ceviche – Fresh mushrooms marinated with red onion, tomato, mango, and a touch of spice, served with crispy chips
Mediterranean Lentil Salad – Al dente lentils with fresh vegetables, herbs, olive oil, and lemon, served cold in a gourmet presentation
Arugula and Peach Salad with Walnuts – Fresh arugula with sliced peaches, candied walnuts, fresh mozzarella, and balsamic vinegar
House Guacamole with Crispy Plantain Tostones – Fresh guacamole with avocado, cilantro, onion, and lime, accompanied by golden, crispy tostones
Mediterranean Platter – Tray with baby carrots, fresh cucumber, olives, tzatziki, and babaganoush
Falafel with House Dip – Spiced chickpea croquettes, served with hummus or tahini (your choice)
Vegetarian Portobello Tacos – Corn tortillas filled with sautéed portobello mushrooms and roasted peppers, served with fresh pico de gallo and light avocado cream
Creamy Tomato Soup – Slow-roasted tomatoes with garlic and herbs, finished with a touch of fresh basil
Pumpkin Cream Soup – Oven-roasted pumpkin with onion and mild spices, served with a touch of light cream and croutons
Green Pea Cream with Mint and Lemon – Green peas gently cooked in a vegetable broth with butter, finished with a refreshing touch of mint and lemon zest
Vegetarian Paella-Style Rice with Saffron – Parboiled rice with peppers, artichokes, zucchini, carrots, and peas, infused with saffron threads
Genovese Pesto Pasta – Fresh pasta with basil pesto, pine nuts, and parmesan
Pomodoro Pasta – Pasta with homemade pomodoro sauce made from Mutti tomatoes, olive oil, and basil
Warm Quinoa Salad – Quinoa with sautéed vegetables, Mediterranean spices, and fresh cheese
Eggplant Lasagna – Layers of roasted eggplant with pomodoro sauce, mozzarella, and gratinéed parmesan
Indian-Style Chickpea Curry with Basmati Rice – Chickpeas and vegetables in a creamy curry sauce with mild spices, served with aromatic basmati rice
Crème Brûlée (Chef Isa’s most requested dessert) - a luxuriously creamy custard infused with organic vanilla bean and topped with a caramelized sugar crust
Lemon Posset Brûlée – A silky lemon cream dessert with a caramelized sugar crust, elegantly served inside a hollowed lemon peel for a burst of citrus and charm
Egyptian Baklava – Flaky layers of phyllo dough filled with a mixed nut blend and sweetened with honey, topped with pistachio
Knafeh de Pistacho – Shredded phyllo pastry baked until golden and crisp, layered with soft sweet cheese and soaked in a warm orange-blossom syrup. Topped with crushed pistachios for a delicate, nutty finish
Tarta De Frutas – A crisp buttery tart filled with creamy custard and topped with seasonal fresh fruit
Tiramisú Clásico – Espresso-soaked ladyfingers layered with whipped mascarpone cream and dusted with cocoa — an Italian classic with bold, silky charm
Arroz Cremoso de los Andes - Creamy rice infused with cinnamon, coconut, brandy-soaked raisins, lemon zest, and cubes of salty Colombian cheese. A sweet tribute to Chef Isa's roots, with a gourmet twist
Fragole al Cioccolato – Juicy strawberries dipped in rich chocolate, garnished with sea salt or crushed pistachios
Parfait di Yogurt Greco e Miele – Creamy Greek yogurt layered with honey, nuts, and fruit — light, sweet, and refreshing
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Mini Gourmet Gelatin Cocktails - Commonly known as “jelly shots,” these tropical-infused gelatin bites are made with your choice of rum or vodka, tropical flavors and are garnished with an elegant touch
Grilled Chicken Thighs - Marinated in honey, mustard, and fresh herbs, juicy and flame-kissed
Pork Ribs in Bocadillo Sauce - Slow-cooked and finished on the grill, glazed in a sweet-savory Colombian guava sauce
Grilled Steak Strips - Juicy marinated steak, grilled and sliced into tender, flavorful strips
Argentinian Grilled Chorizo - Boldly seasoned, grilled, and served in thick slices
Crispy Colombian Chicharrón - Meaty pork belly with crispy skin, slow-cooked in its own fat to crunchy perfection
Mexican-Style Grilled Corn - Topped with grated cheese, tahini, lime, and crema
Roasted Baby Potatoes with Rosemary - Crispy outside, tender inside, seasoned with garlic and sea salt
Fresh Vegetables with Homemade Hummus - Platter of cucumber, baby carrots, celery, and creamy dip
Grilled Pineapple with Cinnamon and Lime. Refreshing and lightly caramelized
Vegetable Rice in Chicken Broth Reduction with carrots, peas, and rich homemade flavor
Artisan Homemade Baguette with Roasted Garlic Butter. Crispy bread served with herb-infused, slow-roasted garlic butter
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Ensalada de Primavera – A refreshing mix of cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, mint, and cheese tossed in olive oil and black pepper
Ensalada de Verano – A vibrant mix of strawberries, tomatoes, and baby spinach tossed with balsamic and garnished with walnuts
Ensalada Pasión – Grilled peaches and fresh orange slices over arugula and feta cheese, finished with rosemary, lime, and maple-citrus dressing
Ensalada Mexicana – A zesty blend of grilled corn, beans, red onion and green peppers served with tortilla chips and vinaigrette-cilantro dressing
Rollitos de Verduras – Crisp vegetable slaw wrapped in rice paper with fresh herbs, served with a sesame dipping sauce
Cóctel de Camarones – Fresh shrimp tossed with mango, cucumber, tomato sauce, a hint of Tabasco (to guest's liking), lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper that is vibrant, zesty, and refreshing
Ajiaquito – Creamy Colombian potato soup infused with guasca, topped with shredded chicken, capers, and a touch of fresh cream
Tomatina – Roasted tomato soup with garlic and onion, finished with fresh basil, a swirl of cream, and topped with a crispy parmesan cheese tuile
Crema de Lentejas Doradas – A warm blend of red lentils with Colombian sofrito and Turkish spices, finished with olive oil and a hint of lime
Auyama al Estilo del Bósforo – Roasted Colombian pumpkin purée swirled with Greek yogurt and olive oil and topped with roasted pumpkin seeds, blending sweet earthiness and freshness
Arroz Estilo Paella con Pollo y Cerdo – Saffron-infused rice cooked paella-style with tender chicken, seasoned pork, roasted bell peppers, and green beans, served with homemade toasted garlic bread
Salmón Thai al Horno – Oven-baked salmon fillet marinated in lemon, fresh ginger, honey, rosemary, garlic, and butter, cooked until tender and slightly caramelized. Served with your choice of papa puree or grilled asparagus flamed in brandy
Asado Negro – Slow-braised beef simmered in a dark, rich sauce made from caramelized panela, onion, garlic, bell pepper, Worcestershire, and red wine reduction. Served with papa puree frances
Ropa Vieja Cubana – Shredded beef stewed in a tomato-based creole sauce with onion, garlic, bell pepper, bay leaf, and cumin, full of comforting Latin flavor. Served with arroz moro and your choice of yuca al mojo or sweet or fried plantains
Pasta Mediterranea - Pasta of your choice tossed with sautéed mussels, clams, shrimp in a fresh Pomodoro sauce with garlic, basil, and parmesan, served with Chef Isa’s signature same-day baked garlic bread, toasted to perfection
Pollo al Marsala – Pan-seared chicken breast simmered in a rich Marsala wine and mushroom sauce, served with seasonal vegetables or papa puree (elegant mashed potatoes). A savory and elegant gluten-free favorite
Crème Brûlée (Chef Isa’s most requested dessert) - a luxuriously creamy custard infused with organic vanilla bean and topped with a caramelized sugar crust
Baklava Cheesecake Bites – A phyllo dough crunch layered with rich baklava cheesecake filling, topped with crushed pistachios and a hint of honey
Knafeh de Pistacho – Shredded phyllo pastry baked until golden and crisp, layered with soft sweet cheese and soaked in a warm orange-blossom syrup. Topped with crushed pistachios for a delicate, nutty finish
Tarta De Frutas – A crisp buttery tart filled with creamy custard and topped with seasonal fresh fruit
Tiramisú Clásico – Espresso-soaked ladyfingers layered with whipped mascarpone cream and dusted with cocoa — an Italian classic with bold, silky charm
Arroz Cremoso de los Andes - Creamy rice infused with cinnamon, coconut, brandy-soaked raisins, lemon zest, and cubes of salty Colombian cheese. A sweet tribute to Chef Isa's roots, with a gourmet twist
Panna Cotta al Limone – Silky lemon-infused cream set to perfection and topped with zest or fresh berries
Fragole al Cioccolato – Juicy strawberries dipped in rich chocolate, garnished with sea salt or crushed pistachios
Parfait di Yogurt Greco e Miele – Creamy Greek yogurt layered with honey, nuts, and fruit — light, sweet, and refreshing
View full menu
Ensalada de Primavera – A refreshing mix of cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, mint, and cheese tossed in olive oil and black pepper
Ensalada de Verano – A vibrant mix of strawberries, plums, tomatoes, and baby spinach tossed with balsamic and garnished with walnuts
Ensalada Pasión – Grilled peaches and fresh orange slices over arugula and feta cheese, finished with rosemary, lime, and maple-citrus dressing
Ensalada Mexicana – A zesty blend of grilled corn, beans, red onion and green peppers served with tortilla chips and vinaigrette-cilantro dressing
Rollitos de Verduras – Crisp vegetable slaw wrapped in rice paper with fresh herbs, served with a sesame dipping sauce
Cóctel de Camarones – Fresh shrimp tossed with mango, cucumber, tomato sauce, a hint of Tabasco (to guest's liking), lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper that is vibrant, zesty, and refreshing
Polpettine al Timo e Aglio – Juicy mini meatballs seasoned with thyme and garlic, slow-fried to perfection and served with a warm honey-mustard sauce lightly infused with cinnamon. A sweet and savory gluten-free appetizer with a rustic Italian touch
Dátiles Rellenos – Cheese-stuffed dates wrapped in smoky bacon
Tostones rústicos con carne desmechada y hogao criollo – Crispy green plantains topped with juicy Colombian-style shredded beef and a homemade tomato-onion hogao sauce — bold, savory, and perfect to share. (Naturally gluten-free)
Mini Arepas - Handcrafted mini corn arepas filled with melted cheese and seasoned shredded chicken and fresh guacamole making a warm, authentic Colombian bite to start your meal. Can be substituted with tostones upon request for a gluten free option
Pollo alla Parmigiana – Gluten-free breaded chicken breast topped with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and parmesan, served over seasonal vegetables or gluten-free pasta. A comforting Italian classic with a golden, cheesy finish
Pollo al Marsala – Pan-seared chicken breast simmered in a rich Marsala wine and mushroom sauce, served with seasonal vegetables or papa puree (elegant mashed potatoes). A savory and elegant gluten-free favorite
Arroz Estilo Paella con Pollo y Cerdo – Saffron-infused rice cooked paella-style with tender chicken, seasoned pork, roasted bell peppers, and green beans, served with toasted gluten-free garlic bread. A bold and comforting dish, 100% gluten-free
Pan-Seared Salmon – Crispy-skinned salmon pan-seared to perfection, finished in a lemon, rosemary, and dairy-free butter sauce. Served with your choice of rustic mashed potatoes or steamed asparagus
Pasta Mediterranea ai Gamberi (Gluten-Free) – Gluten-free pasta tossed with sautéed shrimp in a fresh Pomodoro sauce with garlic, basil, and parmesan, served with toasted gluten-free garlic bread. A vibrant coastal-inspired dish, light and full of flavor
Crème Brûlée (Chef Isa’s most requested dessert) - a luxuriously creamy custard infused with organic vanilla bean and topped with a caramelized sugar crust
Pavlova alla Frutta – A crisp meringue shell with a soft center, topped with whipped cream and fresh seasonal fruit
Budino di Riso al Cocco – Creamy coconut rice pudding infused with vanilla and cinnamon, served chilled in a glass
Panna Cotta al Limone – Silky lemon-infused cream set to perfection and topped with zest or fresh berries
Crostata Fredda allo Yogurt e Frutta – A no-bake tart made with Greek yogurt and a gluten-free crust, finished with vibrant fresh fruit
Fragole al Cioccolato – Juicy strawberries dipped in rich chocolate, garnished with sea salt or crushed pistachios
Parfait di Yogurt Greco e Miele – Creamy Greek yogurt layered with honey, nuts, and fruit — light, sweet, and refreshing
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Bruschetta de Verano – Grilled gluten-free bread topped with marinated tomatoes, garlic, and basil
Tropical Shrimp Cocktail – Poached shrimp served over mango, cucumber, and chili-lime sauce in mini cups
Chef Isa’s Mezza Platter – Hummus, baba ganoush, olive medley, gluten-free crackers, and vegetable crudités
Greek-Inspired Village Salad – Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, oregano, and plant-based cheese, tossed in red wine vinaigrette
Garden Avocado Citrus Salad – Baby greens, ripe avocado, orange segments, cherry tomatoes, and toasted pumpkin seeds, tossed in a light citrus vinaigrette
Chimichurri Chicken Thighs – Grilled, bone-in chicken marinated in fresh herbs and garlic, topped with bright chimichurri sauce. Served with corn on the cob with salt and dairy-free garlic butter
Sea Bass al Limón – Pan-seared sea bass finished with a citrus-herb reduction. Served with your choice of grilled asparagus or roasted baby potatoes (both gluten-free)
Pan-Seared Salmon – Crispy-skinned salmon pan-seared to perfection, finished in a lemon, rosemary, and dairy-free butter sauce. Served with your choice of rustic mashed potatoes or steamed asparagus
Paella de Pollo y Cerdo – A bold, saffron-infused rice dish with juicy chicken, tender pork, peppers, tomatoes, and fresh herbs. Full of rich Spanish flavor
Lomo Saltado Peruano – A traditional Peruvian stir-fry of marinated sirloin strips sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and golden potatoes, finished with a gluten-free soy blend
Pasta Pomodoro – Gluten-free pasta of tossed in a fresh, slow-simmered Pomodoro sauce made with San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, basil, and a hint of chili. Served with Chef Isa’s popular and most requested homemade gluten and vegan-free garlic butter bread
Vegan Crème Brûlée – A creamy coconut milk custard with a torched caramelized top, garnished with candied mint leaves
Fresh Berry Parfait – Layers of coconut whipped cream, seasonal berries, and gluten-free crumble
Chocolate-Dipped Fresh Fruit – An assortment of strawberries, pineapple, and grapes dipped in silky vegan dark chocolate
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Asado Negro – Slow-braised beef in a rich papelón and red wine reduction, deeply spiced and caramelized to perfection
Grilled Chicken Thighs – Juicy, marinated boneless thighs grilled on-site and served with house-made chimichurri sauce
Mac & Cheese en Salsa de Calabaza – Creamy macaroni baked in a fresh homemade squash sauce with melted cheese; comforting and kid-friendly
Puré de Papa Francés – Classic French-style mashed potatoes with butter; highly recommended with the Asado Negro
Grilled Sweet Corn – Char-grilled corn on the cob, served whole or halved, with butter or cheese on the side
Greek Salad – Cucumber, tomato, red onion, black olives, and crumbled feta in a light vinaigrette
Green Salad with Honey Mustard Vinaigrette – Mixed greens with shredded carrot, toasted nuts, and optional croutons
Charcuterie Board – A rustic assortment of cured meats, artisanal cheeses, olives, nuts, and fresh fruit. Designed to be shared and beautifully presented
Mediterranean Mezze Platter – A colorful assortment of hummus, tabbouleh, marinated olives, roasted vegetables, and warm pita
Assorted Cookie Platter – A chef-curated variety of fresh-baked cookies
Mini Cupcake Assortment – A colorful, bite-sized selection of frosted cupcakes
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