Thomas Haluska
IACP Professional Member
Scottsdale, AZ
Private Chef/Owner
Eclectic Private Chefs LLC

 
I have been cooking for 23 years; 18 professionally and the last eight as a private chef and owner of Eclectic Private Chefs LLC, based out of my home in Scottsdale, Arizona. My clients are comprised of CEOs, professional athletes, musicians, actors and private citizens.

Presently I am focusing on my independent business in the Phoenix area New Mexico and Southern California. Through traveling with my clients, I have not only acquired a vast experience with different cuisines and techniques, but also estate/household management and private jet services. One of the most memorable being the two years in Manaus, Brazil working with a commercial fishing fleet. I am an angler at heart and will fish every chance I get. There is nothing more satisfying to me than preparing a great meal from whatever I pulled out of the fresh or salt waters that very same day.

Preferably I cook with sustainable local ingredients using organic and chemical-free products whenever possible. Asian, French and Italian cuisines have been the heaviest influences for me throughout my career. I also have a passionate respect for the Cajun Creole cuisine of Louisiana.  It is, in my opinion, the grandfather of most inherited American cuisines.

Joining the IACP has sharpened my culinary skills and knowledge, and allowed me to connect with other professionals in my field. I am striving to further my independent business - not just learning for myself, but also positively encouraging other chefs as I believe that the culinary arts are a vocation.

Major creative technique influences:

Chef Thomas Keller (French Laundry & Bouchon)

Chef Georges Perrier (La Bec -Fin)

Chef Dean Fearing (Mansion on Turtle Creek)

Michael Ruhlman (Charcuterie)

Chef Brian Polcyn (Charcuterie)