Looking to elevate your villa stay with an unforgettable dining experience? At Villa Grandi, we proudly offer the private chef services of Octavio Verhelst, founder of Taste Sensesation Curaçao. With bold flavors, a deep love for storytelling through food, and an eye for beautiful presentation, Chef Octavio transforms your villa dinner into a memorable culinary journey.
About the Chef: From Curaçao to Crete and Back
With over 20 years of experience, Chef Octavio—also known as Chef O—is the creative force behind Taste Sensesation, offering guests a blend of Mediterranean finesse and Caribbean authenticity. He holds a degree in Hospitality Management with culinary training from London and The Hague, and has spent years perfecting his craft across cultures.
“Mise en place: everything in its place.”
“A messy kitchen is a messy mind.”
Caribbean-Mediterranean Fusion with a Purpose
Chef O’s style isn’t about following trends—it’s about honoring ingredients, culture, and creativity. While many label their food as “fusion,” he believes it’s about recreating familiar flavors in new, poetic ways. His love for Caribbean spices and Mediterranean textures blends beautifully on every plate.
From vibrant vegan creations to rich seafood dishes and traditional island stews, his work is rooted in Curaçao’s heritage, shaped by his time on Crete, and inspired by nature’s rhythms.
What Taste Sensesation Offers at Villa Grandi
Whether you’re hosting a birthday, romantic dinner, or laid-back family meal, Chef Octavio adapts effortlessly to the vibe of your group. His private chef services include:
- Family-style meals
- 3 to 8-course fine dining dinners
- Seasonal menus with local produce
- Romantic dinners or themed events (min. 4 guests or $400)
- Optional wine pairings, decor, and celebration cakes
- Dietary accommodations (vegan, allergies, preferences)
He also helps with sourcing, shopping, staff, and even sharing travel tips—because for him, this is more than cooking: it’s hospitality with heart.
“I see myself not just as a chef, but an ambassador for Curaçao.”
A Memorable Taste of Curaçao
One of his favorite moments? A group boat trip where guests caught their own fish. Chef O turned it into a full-on interactive dinner with sashimi, grilled catch, gumbo stew, and even fish-bone souvenirs. That’s Taste Sensesation—intimate, creative, and always unforgettable.
See Chef Octavio in Action
Visit Taste Sensesation’s website to explore sample menus, view photos of past events, and learn more about Chef Octavio’s culinary services.
Book Your Private Chef in Curaçao Now
Whether it’s a luxury tasting menu or a cozy Caribbean breakfast, Chef Octavio from Taste Sensesation brings world-class dining right to Villa Grandi’s doorstep. Book at least one week in advance to secure your spot.
To book the private chef experience, mention it in your villa inquiry.