Your Plate or Mine Founder
Simon Cooke aka ‘Cookie!’
Born and raised in Herefordshire, I grew up on a farm, where my love for the land and passion for organic produce first inspired me to become a chef. Over the past eighteen years, I’ve refined my culinary skills in some of the region’s finest restaurants, cultivating a deep respect for using locally sourced ingredients in my dishes.
To expand my cheffing expertise, I trained in butchery, gaining a comprehensive understanding of preparing and presenting different cuts of meat—skills that have elevated my approach to private dining and bespoke menus. With a strong reputation in the local dining scene, I felt the time was right to share my passion in a more personal way by offering private chef services and exclusive event catering.
In 2018, alongside my partner Ellen, whose event-planning and business expertise perfectly complement my culinary background, we founded Your Plate or Mine private dining company. Our focus is on providing unique, high-quality dining experiences—whether it’s a private chef for your staycation, an intimate dinner party in your own home, or unforgettable catering for special events.