Inspiring Conversations with Magdalis Galarza of Creative Feasts

Today we’d like to introduce you to Magdalis Galarza.

Hi Magdalis, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My story starts in Puerto Rico, where I was born and raised. Watching my mother and grandmother transform our small kitchen into the heart of family celebrations, filled with delicious food, made a lasting impression on me.

Throughout my childhood, I explored various interests, but I always returned to food. After earning my Bachelor’s degree, I felt the need for something more fulfilling. In 2013, I took a leap of faith and moved from Puerto Rico to Cleveland to attend culinary school, leaving behind my family, friends, and everything I knew. I had to start anew in a completely different place, culture, and everything.

After several years in the industry, working in various roles from salad cook to supervisor, I knew I wanted to create something more personal. In 2021, I launched Creative Feasts, a personal chef company specializing in elevated, customized dining experiences. Today, I continue to grow, evolve, and build upon the passion that first ignited in my family’s kitchen.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It wasn’t a smooth road at all. Moving from Puerto Rico to Cleveland meant starting from scratch – a new city, environment, and a lot of unknowns. I had to adapt quickly while consistently proving myself in tough kitchen environments.

There were long hours, moments of self-doubt, and times when I questioned my career path. Launching my own business presented a new wave of challenges, including slow periods, limited funds, networking with new people, building client relationships, and the pressure of creating something from the ground up.

However, these experiences have been incredible, and they’ve created in me a greater sense of confidence and strengthened my commitment to my vision.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Creative Feasts?
Creative Feasts is a personal chef business; it’s really about creating meaningful experiences through food. I don’t see it as catering—it’s much more personal than that. I work closely with each client to design a menu that fits them, their preferences, and the kind of moment they want to create.

My style is rooted in Latin and Caribbean flavors, inspired by my upbringing, but elevated with everything I’ve learned along the way. What makes it special to me is how hands-on and intentional it is. I’m there from start to finish, planning, cooking, and serving, ensuring every detail feels just right.

Our food is vibrant, colorful, and a true reflection of our culture—it tells a story every time it’s served.

At Creative Feasts, we focus on creating experiences that feel natural and enjoyable for our clients and their guests. Some love our family-style three-course dinners for the relaxed, shared atmosphere, while others prefer a four-course plated experience that brings a more elevated, restaurant-style feel right into their home.

For a more social and lively setting, our Tapas Bar and Paella Bar are always a hit—perfect for cocktail-style gatherings and especially popular during patio season, where guests can mingle, enjoy small bites, and take in the full experience.

Some of our most requested dishes include our empanadas, octopus salad, skirt steak, and our signature tres leches.

More than anything, I’m proud that Creative Feasts truly reflects who I am. It’s my culture, my journey, and my passion all in one. And I just want people to walk away feeling like it was more than just dinner, it was something they’ll remember.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I enjoy a few books, including an old notebook of my mom’s recipes from over 30 years ago, my first cookbook “Cocine conmigo,” and the more modern cookbook “Diasporican” by Illyanna Maisonet. I also like listening to the “Walk-in Talk Podcast,” which features inspiring stories of chefs who have overcome challenges to achieve success. These are things I look forward to.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.creativefeasts.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creativefeasts?igsh=aWd2c2x4cXhkamlz
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CBR34XMjU/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Other: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jNe1AxCvutxauue36?g_st=ic