About MV Culinary Co.
MV Culinary Co. is a premier private catering and personal chef service on Martha’s Vineyard. Rooted in more than 20 years of local culinary experience and supported by a diverse team of chefs, we bring exceptional dining experiences to life—whether it’s an intimate supper or a grand celebration.
At the helm are co-owners Jeffrey Santos and Alessandro Iordache, who together oversee both front-of-house (FOH) and back-of-house (BOH) operations.
Jeffrey Santos – Co-Owner, FOH Operations
A first-generation Portuguese-American born in Rhode Island, Jeffrey has called Martha’s Vineyard home for over two decades. Throughout that time, he has worked in some of the island’s busiest, most respected restaurants. With a career built on hospitality and guest satisfaction, Jeffrey leads all front-of-house operations for MV Culinary Co. His experience, warm presence, and eye for detail ensure that every event runs seamlessly and that every guest feels welcomed and cared fo
Alessandro Iordache – Co-Owner, BOH Operations
Born in Romania, Alessandro immigrated to the United States 10 years ago and has since built an impressive career across the culinary landscape. From Miami to Texas, Colorado to Martha’s Vineyard, Alessandro has worked in a wide range of kitchens and restaurant styles, gaining versatile expertise in both cuisine and operations. Having helped serve events in some of the country’s most sought-after seasonal destinations, he now directs all back-of-house operations at MV Culinary Co. Alessandro’s leadership in the kitchen ensures consistency, innovation, and excellence in every dish prepared.
Our Team
Chef Brandon “Lenny” Joseph
Born and raised in Saint Lucia, Chef Brandon “Lenny” Joseph brings more than 15 years of professional culinary experience to every plate he creates. He began his journey as a baker, mastering breads, pastries and confections before transitioning to the hot line and honing butchery, fish filleting and knife skills.
Today Lenny blends Caribbean roots with global influences, delighting guests with refined raw preparations like sashimi and ceviche and expertly cooked premium cuts. Whether preparing an intimate dinner or leading a large catered event, his dishes reflect creativity, precision and a deep respect for quality.
Chef Ja’Derrick Reed
After honing his craft in the South, Ja’Derrick explored new culinary landscapes as Sous Chef at the Grand Targhee Resort in the mountains of Wyoming before returning east. For the past three years, he has been an integral part of the Newes from America Pub on Martha’s Vineyard, rising from Sous Chef to Head Chef. In this role, he leads the kitchen with bold flavors, refined execution, and memorable guest experiences. Ja’Derrick blends his Southern roots with global influences, bringing a fresh and versatile perspective to private dining and catering.
Chef John “Sushi John” Zu
John “Sushi John” Zu is a master sushi chef with more than 15 years of experience crafting innovative and authentic sushi experiences across Martha’s Vineyard. He has worked in a variety of restaurant roles throughout his career, but his true passion has always been sushi. For over a decade, he has operated his own sushi business, contracting with different restaurants and hospitality groups to bring high‑quality sushi to their guests.
John is best known for leading the sushi bar at Copper Wok in Vineyard Haven, where his skill and creativity made the sushi program a local favorite. Today, he shapes the island’s sushi culture as the head of the sushi bar at Martha’s Vineyard Chowder Company in Oak Bluffs. His approach blends traditional Japanese technique with modern flair, using the freshest ingredients available to create sushi that is both visually striking and unforgettable in flavor.
With a loyal following and years of dedication to his craft, Chef John has become a well‑recognized name among Vineyard diners seeking an exceptional sushi experience.
MV Culinary Co. 