I’m Maya Rae, owner of Amazing Graze Reno. My first introduction to the world of professional cooking was through my Great-grandfather, who owned and managed restaurants in the Palm Springs, CA area. His legacy was a local’s favorite that existed as an establishment for 46 years. I was just a little girl stealing cherries from behind the bar, but I’ll never forget the customers raving over his signature Southern-style Pan Fried Chicken with all the fixin’s!

The place was a reflection of who he was: comfort foods from being raised in the Deep South, applied French cooking techniques from studying under Master Chefs, and even an inside Pub to celebrate his strong Irish heritage. The atmosphere always felt alive with incredible food, laughter, and conversations. That is the joy I wish to recreate with Amazing Graze Reno.

Much like my Great-grandfather, my entrance into the culinary world was untraditional. I’m a creator with a degree in filmmaking from Art Center College of Design. I spent 18 years in the industry working on and off with production companies, and also independently. With a passion for the arts I also pursued theater, dance, modeling, photography, and mixology. In the beginning of 2023 an offer came my way to be a part-time, cooking show Co-Host for a local Private Chef.

I quickly became Co-Host, Mixologist, and Sous Chef. I was voraciously learning under several Private Chefs (some with over 30 years experience in the restaurant industry). My newfound passion was ignited, and my mentors encouraged me to continue. For me the culinary arts is a lot like filmmaking: the pre-production is the menu planning and preps, the filming is layering all the elements/flavors together, and the post-production ends with premiere and presentation of the finished dish. I love to design the food and play with colors/themes. I created Amazing Graze Reno to be able to bring these creations into your homes, sharing a world of flavors with a presentation that will add magic to any table and event. I look forward to cooking and designing for you!