Ben DiGregorio started cooking for my husband and me after my hip replacement surgery in 2009 and stayed on through 2010 for a second hip surgery and stayed on after that because, well, we were then spoiled rotten and completely addicted to his food.
With the surname, DiGregorio, it goes without saying that Ben’s repertoire of Italian food is vast and fantastic. He made some of the best pasta and risotto dishes I have ever eaten. I could have eaten Ben’s Italian food every single day but his culinary expertise went far beyond Italy. A whole salmon basted in homemade Teriyaki sauce from Japan, French coq au vin, Thai spring rolls with a pungent hot sauce, Yoghurt-braised chicken from India and amazing American comfort food like braised short ribs, chicken pot pie and beef stroganoff with homemade noodles are just a few of many dishes that come to mind. Main courses aside, one of Ben’s wonderful salads and homemade bread is a perfect meal anytime.
My husband and I aren’t keen on elaborate desserts so Ben customized our desserts to suit: simple, limited sugar, fruit-of-the-season fare such as berry pies, apple and pear tarts and turnovers, peach cobblers and an occasional flourless chocolate cake slipped onto the menu.
A personal note because it’s always important: Ben is a calm and charming man who is a pleasure to be around. He’s a consummate professional who is an excellent shopper, paying equal attention to the quality and the price of food. He’s fast and efficient in the kitchen and when he’s finished, the place is so clean there’s no evidence of anyone having been there…until you see the platters of gorgeous food on display.
Whether Ben is cooking for one or one hundred he consistently delivers healthful, inventive and delicious dishes. He produced magic and surprise for us every week for two years and the memories of those meals will linger a long, long time.
Sincerely,
Suzanne St. Clair (Pasadena)
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Having Ben cook a meal or cater your party is like indulging in some sinful luxury, but the great part is he’s completely affordable. I’ve been at countless parties and occasions where Ben has provided the food, and he literally is a draw in his own right. No matter the occasion, his cooking is clean, effortless, flavorful.
Grill party outside? No problem. Pasta dinner? No problem. Thanksgiving dinner for twenty people? No problem. Intimate gathering for 4? No problem. Desserts? Oh my god.
I’ve hosted all these events, and one of the first things I check is whether Ben is available to handle the food. If he’s not – we’re finding a date where he is. And not only is the food delicious, but Ben’s personality is low-key and drama-free and when you’ve got your mind all over the place planning an event, the last thing you need is over-sensitivity in the kitchen. Ben brings the best combination of fantastic cuisine and a calming energy, so you can focus on ensuring the guests are having a great time.
Allen Barton, President/CEO, Beverly Hills Playhouse (Beverly Hills)
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Ben was my personal chef for three years in Los Angeles and, very reluctantly, I had to say goodbye to not only an excellent chef who cooked wonderful meals for me each week, but to someone who became a friend.
Ben’s versatility with menu planning ensured that each week was a surprise and a treat. Ben can not only cook to order, but is brilliant with his own repertoire using menus and recipes he has collected over many years.
His cooking is exceptional whether it is a slow cooked meal, a barbeque, a stovetop treat or a combo he has found at the local farmer’s market. Homemade bread, desserts, salads, lightly cooked vegetables and all cuts of meat and poultry–including goose!–cannot be beat…nor can his mashed potatoes! He turns a simple sandwich into a memorable gourmet meal with his homemade bread and a variety of ingredients.
There is nothing–as far as I am concerned–that this chef cannot accomplish whether it is a personalized diet for weight maintainence or health concerns, an all out party menu, holiday feast, or a simple but delicious dinner to eat while watching TV.
I highly recommend Ben –who also leaves your kitchen spotless–as a personal chef, a caterer,…and a friend!
Susan Spinks (Los Angeles)
I COOK YOU EAT OJAI 