October 11, 2025

Private Dinner in Rice Village

Close-up of seared white fish served in a golden pumpkin sauce, plated elegantly with dill and edible flowers during a private dinner by Chef Iliana Stone in Houston.
Close-up of seared white fish served in a golden pumpkin sauce, plated elegantly with dill and edible flowers during a private dinner by Chef Iliana Stone in Houston.

Autumn at the Table: A Private Dinner in Rice Village

There’s something magical about the fall season in Houston — the way the light hits the table, the warmth in every spice, and the comfort of gathering at home. For this private dinner in River Oaks, I created a four-course tasting menu that celebrated the beauty of autumn through texture, color, and balance.

Each dish was designed to tell a story — from the first bite of roasted pumpkin soup with dill oil, to seared pompano with garlic and seasonal vegetables. The plates were delicate yet grounded, blending global techniques with the vibrant soul of Mexican flavors.

Cooking privately for families allows me to craft more than just food — it’s about creating connection, joy, and memory through flavor. This dinner reminded me that elegance can be intimate, and the most meaningful meals are often the ones shared quietly, around your own table.

(Houston Private Chef | Cordon Bleu Trained | Modern Mexican & Global Cuisine)