Chef Matthew Vaillette

Chef Matthew Vaillette is a Culinary Institute of America-trained culinary professional with more than 20 years of experience leading kitchens across Michelin-recognized fine dining, upscale California restaurants, luxury hospitality, senior living, catering and private culinary services. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for delivering exceptional dining experiences while fostering strong teams through mentorship, training and operational excellence.

Most recently, Chef Matthew served as executive chef and director of dining services at Oakmont Senior Living in Seal Beach, California, where he led a team of more than 50 culinary and dining professionals while overseeing service for more than 185 residents. Under his leadership, the dining program achieved improvements in food quality, cost control, team performance and resident satisfaction, creating a hospitality-driven experience that elevated everyday dining.

His culinary foundation was shaped in some of Southern California's most respected kitchens, including Thomas Keller's acclaimed Bouchon Bistro, the Michelin-recognized THE RANCH Restaurant in Anaheim and Olea in Newport Beach, an upscale California coastal restaurant known for its seasonal, ingredient-driven cuisine. These experiences refined his classical technique, attention to detail and commitment to excellence while preparing him to execute both intimate dining experiences and large-scale events.

Chef Matthew also managed high-profile culinary events serving more than 1,000 guests, including James Beard Awards functions, demonstrating his ability to maintain exceptional quality in fast-paced, high-volume environments.

As the founder of Culinary Crutch LLC, Chef Matthew has expanded his expertise into culinary consulting, private chef services and hands-on cooking instruction. He also served as a personal chef with Whole Health Everyday, creating customized, nutrition-focused menus designed to meet each client's unique health goals and lifestyle.

Known for his calm leadership style, collaborative approach and passion for teaching, Chef Matthew excels at developing culinary talent, implementing effective training programs and building kitchen cultures rooted in professionalism, respect and continuous improvement. Whether leading a fine dining brigade, mentoring the next generation of chefs or crafting memorable dining experiences, he combines classical culinary discipline with genuine warmth and approachability.

Based in Fullerton, California, Chef Matthew continues to bring together fine dining precision, operational leadership and heartfelt hospitality in every kitchen he leads.