Yes, Chef! Feature: Kim Rogers

After 25 years in the Cleveland culinary scene, in 2024 Kim Rogers was ready to strike out on her own. She founded Plated by Kim to turn her background into providing clients with thoughtfully crafted in-home dining experiences and customized meal prepping.

The effort paid off and her business soared, earning a nod of national attention along the way. This summer she made it down to the last five chefs as a finalist of the Favorite Chef Competition presented by Carla Hall and Food Network. Though she didn’t snag the top spot, she says the experience was surreal. “I got to compete alongside some seriously talented chefs, and even though I didn’t win, the exposure and the connections I made are huge for my business. Plus, I learned so much just being in the competition.”

Q. What made you want to be a personal chef? I love preparing food for family, friends and others. There’s something magical about how it brings people around the table to share memories and enjoy each other’s company. Becoming a personal chef felt like turning that passion into something meaningful. 

Q. How are you different than other personal chefs in the area? I focus on elevated comfort food with a personal touch. What really sets me apart is the collaboration. My clients work with me from start to finish, and I create every menu around their preferences and dietary needs. It’s not just cooking. It’s a partnership.

Q. How old were you when you started cooking? I grew up helping my mom cook for my four younger siblings, so I was in the kitchen from a really young age. I learned early on that cooking was about so much more than just feeding people. It was about showing up for the people you love. As a mother of four myself, I’ve carried that forward. I’ve spent over 40 years in the kitchen with hands-on culinary experience, and it all started with that foundation of caring for family. 

Q. Who’s the most influential chef in your life? Private Chef Gaby Dalkin taught me that cooking doesn’t have to be intimidating to be impressive. Her approach is fresh, fun and completely doable, and that energy changed how I cook for people. She reminded me that the best food comes from joy, not stress, and I bring that into every kitchen I work in. 

Q. What’s your most indispensable kitchen gadget? Favorite ingredient?

Hands down, my immersion blender. It’s small but so versatile. I use it for silky soups, homemade sauces, dressings, marinades. My favorite ingredient is lemon. A simple squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of zest can instantly brighten a dish and bring all the flavors together. 

Q. What’s the favorite dish you make? My pounded chicken with hand-rolled pasta and house-made marinara. That dish defines my whole culinary style. Taking simple ingredients and elevating them with care, technique and tradition. Every element is made from scratch and filled with love. It’s rustic and elevated comfort food all at once.

To nominate a chef for Mimi’s “Yes, Chef!” column, please email Mimi@MimiVanderhaven.com. 

Find out more about Plated by Kim at PlatedbyKimCLE.com.