The Private Cooks and Chefs of Martha’s Vineyard

I don’t know about you, but when I’m on vacation, I enjoy taking a break from cooking…and cleaning up the kitchen when the eating is done! But, part of the reason that you want to rent a house on Martha’s Vineyard, is so that you’ll have a kitchen and you won’t have to go out for every meal – as you would if you were staying in a hotel.

Private cooks and chefs are the answer and the Vineyard has some special chefs to offer. You can arrange for them to make a single meal or every meal for your entire stay – just for one, two or the whole family (and your friends). These women specialize in listening to your dietary needs and your taste bud desires!

Nisa Kontje Webster gets right to the heart of a true Vineyard meal. Born and raised on the island, she can turn anything into a gourmet meal and she’s a wonderfully calm and personable addition to any kitchen – you’ll hardly know she’s there and you won’t want her to leave! 508.566.0464

Elizabeth Germain is the slow food aficionado on the island focussing on foods made from scratch with original recipes – the antithesis to fast food (think McDonalds) with emphasis on local, organic and healing recipes. 617.5159279

Laura Silber specializes in coastal fusion pulling from many different coastal cultures uses all local ingredients but with Asian and French flairs. Clean and simple enough that you can eat it everyday.

Heather Gude

A little bit richer and a bit fancier than the rest, Heather’s fusion style has South American and Southeast Asian influences. 508.930.8519

The Caterers of Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard is a prized destination for special events – weddings, anniversaries, reunions and more. And, of course, no celebration is complete without lots and lots of food.

The Vineyard has many incredible caterers. They know the island, the venues, the local fare. Here’s a quick list of some favorites and what makes them special. But, food is a personal thing so I highly recommend that you meet these caterers and taste test!!! Not a bad way to spend an afternoon…

Jan Buhrman, of The Kitchen Porch, highlights her New England country style. Seen in her menus and presentations, she goes for the fresh, local and abundant feel of a big old country meal. She’s also available for private cheffing.

Jamie Hamlin is known for both her catering to the stars and her aesthetics in the food and its presentation which is elegant from start to finish.

Dee Smith of Tea Lane Caterers is proud of the diversity and quality of the food she creates. Everything is made from scratch and is created to match your event perfectly. Dee also does private cheffing under the guise of the Phantom Chef.

Perry Ambulos of Truly Scrumptious Catering and Cafe is always a highlight at fundraisers around the island and known for his incredible hors d’oeuvres.

Annie Foley has been cheffing and catering for over 15 years, creating the perfect atmosphere for your event – from the traditional New England meal to the something more on the wild side.

Size Matters on Martha’s Vineyard

Of the many amazing things that people love about vacationing on Martha’s Vineyard, the size of the island and all that it contains, stands out. In roughly 100 square miles, you have easy access to beaches, forests, farms, ponds, quaint villages, bustling towns…everything but malls (thank goodness!)

And, the village of Katama, located in Edgartown is perfectly positioned close to downtown Edgartown with its shops and right next to beautiful South Beach. You have the quiet of up island, but the proximity to a happening town, and the beach is public, so you have guaranteed access.


We have several rental houses in Katama that fit the bill, and this is one of my favorites. It’s an expanded cape with a large family room with cathedral ceiling and an open, airy game room with a pool table. The kitchen was remodeled in 2004, and the fully landscaped yard has plenty of room for barbecues, badminton and lounging about in the sunshine. If you’re planning a vacation for this fall, next spring or summer – this is a great property.

Contact me for more info!