
Hire a Private Chef in 30A for Elegant Beachside Dining
Skip the reservations. Let Chef Jojo bring a custom culinary experience right to your rental, beach house, or Airbnb.
Moments Made with Chef Jojo

Meet Chef Jojo
Joanna Mercado, lovingly known as Chef Jojo, discovered her love for cooking as a child, inspired by her father and grandmothers in the kitchen. That spark has since grown into over 22 years of professional culinary experience, including time at acclaimed 30A restaurants like Pescado and The Surfing Deer.
Today, Chef Jojo brings that same passion and artistry to every client she serves. She infuses her menus with Mediterranean and Caribbean influences, adds a healthy twist to beloved Southern classics, and crafts unforgettable sushi spreads from scratch.
Whether preparing an intimate dinner for two or catering a 500-guest celebration, no occasion is too small or too grand. Every dish reflects Chef Jojo’s commitment to excellence and her joy in creating meaningful moments around the table.
30A Private Chef Services
From plated dinners to bonfire buffets, Chef Jojo offers handcrafted culinary experiences for every occasion in 30A.
Plated Dining Experience
An elegant dining experience in your home. Enjoy a multi-course meal with Chef Jojo and team, complete with menus, linens, fresh flowers, and cleanup.
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Taxes and Gratuity added at checkout (not charged on the food cost)
Server included for all plated dinners, groups of 8 guests or more, or any class for $150.
Brunches
Wake up to a chef-curated breakfast in your kitchen. From mimosa bars to gourmet spreads, Chef Jojo makes mornings in 30A effortlessly delicious.
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Menu finalized upon booking.
Taxes and Gratuity added at checkout (not charged on the food cost).
Server included for all plated dinners, groups of 8 guests or more, or any class for $150.
Family Buffets
Laid-back, flavorful meals ideal for families or group dinners at your rental. Includes chef-curated buffet menus with customizable themes.
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Optional Add-ons:
Bonfires @ $40 provided by Its Lit Bonfires PCB
Beach Photography: $350 - 20 minute session a Candid & Posed with minimum 15 edits ($15 each extra edit) (provided by Jose Castro Photography)
Grocery Conceirge $250 plus grocery cost with delivery from any store within 10 miles radius of rental. (Provided by Bach Haus)
Taxes and Gratuity added at checkout (not charged on the food cost).
Server included for all plated dinners, groups of 8 guests or more, or any class for $150.
Cooking Classes with Chef Jojo
Learn to cook with Chef Jojo in a hands-on class featuring sushi, gnocchi, or her signature "Top 3" dishes. Includes a full three-course meal.
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Taxes and Gratuity added at checkout (not charged on the food cost).
Server included for all plated dinners, groups of 8 guests or more, or any class for $150.
Sip. Eat. Paint with Chef Jojo
Unleash your creativity while you sip, snack, and paint the night away with Chef Jojo. Perfect for birthdays or any unforgettable girls’ night in 30A.
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$800 minimum per event.
Taxes and Gratuity added at checkout (not charged on the food cost).
Server included for all plated dinners, groups of 8 guests or more, or any class for $150.

Need a chef today? We’ve got you covered! Text us at (321) 877-8781
📱
Need a chef today? We’ve got you covered! Text us at (321) 877-8781 📱
Signature Menus
Chef Jojo offers a thoughtfully curated range of menus to suit every occasion — from peaceful beach mornings to elegant dinners and lively sunset bonfires. Each menu is handcrafted using the freshest local ingredients, delivered with unmatched hospitality and flavor.
Specializing in Organic, Caribbean, Asian Fusion, Seafood, and Vegetarian cuisine, Chef Jojo brings creativity, culture, and balance to every plate. Whether you’re craving bold flavors or clean, wholesome meals, there's a menu crafted just for you.
Brunch & Breakfast
Build Your Own Brunch *B*Y*O*B*
Start your day with a chef-made brunch, cooked fresh in your kitchen and tailored to your taste.
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Blueberry Pancakes
Cinnamon French Toast with Berries
Chicken & Waffles
Banana Foster Crepes
Traditional Eggs Benedict
Jumbo Lump Blue Crab Benedict - Classic Béarnaise Sauce, Poached Eggs topped on a Fried Green Tomatoes with Sundried Tomato Aioli
Avocado Toast - Soft Boiled Egg, Pickled Red Onion, Cilantro, Tajin, Fresh Jalapenos, Pineapple Buerre Blanc
Vegetarian Eggs Benedict - Poached Eggs, Heirloom Tomatoes, Caramelized Onions, Garlic Sautéed Spinach, Cheddar Cheese, with Carrot Glaze on Sourdough Muffin
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Applewood Smoked Bacon
Turkey Bacon
Maple Sausage Link
Chicken Sausage Links
Pork Sausage Patty
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Skillet Potatoes
Roasted Reds
Hash Browns
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Scrambled Eggs
Eggs to Order
Scrambled with Cheese
Omelets to Order
Quiche Lorraine
Vegetarian Frittata - Sundried Tomatoes, Chevre Goat Cheese, Mushrooms, Onions, & Cauliflower
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Florida Fresh Fruit Platter
Exotic Fruit Platter
Parfait Platter
Avocado Caprese Platter
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Pastry Platter
Fresh Squeezed Juice Bar & Berries
Coffee Station
Mimosa Bar
Bloody Mary Station
(can add additional bars, just ask!)
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$65 per person + gratuity & taxes
Groups of 10 or more require a server for an additional $125 per 10 guests .
Plated Dinners
Explore chef-crafted menus inspired by 30A’s top spots — or mix and match your favorites. Wherever you're staying, we've got your perfect meal.
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Crafted by Chef Joanna Mercado, this year’s menus celebrate the best of 30A with fresh, local ingredients sourced from trusted partners like Market 30A, The Vale Mushroom, Sweet Henrietta’s, Publix, Fresh Market, Shaka Sushi, and 30A Olive Oil Co.
Together, we create more than meals — we create moments that make the Florida Gulf Coast a top destination for families, friends, and retreats alike.
Choose any menu that speaks to you — no matter where you’re staying!
Menu names are simply for inspiration and easier selection. Want to mix and match? Just let us know — we’re happy to customize. -
Please Select 1 appetizer, 1 salad, up to 2 entrees, either 1/2 portions or guest count of each selection, & 1 dessert option.
APPETIZERS
Baja Crab Cakes
Premium jumbo lump crab cakes topped with Mexican street corn,
Applewood-smoked bacon, pickled red onions, jalapeños, crema fresca, and fire-roasted corn
Seared Sea Scallops
Caramelized diver scallops, cauliflower purée,
brown butter, crispy capers, and aged balsamic
Baja Crab Cakes
assorted gourmet mushrooms & hearts of palm cakes topped with Mexican street corn,
coconut-smoked bacon, pickled red onions, jalapeños, crema fresca, and fire-roasted corn
SALADS
Harvest Salad
Baby greens, roasted butternut squash, pomegranate seeds,
feta cheese, spiced pecans, and maple-cider vinaigrette
Poached Pear & Blue Cheese
Wine-poached Anjou pears, candied walnuts, artisanal blue cheese,
Belgian endive, and white balsamic vinaigrette
ENTREES
Blackened Grouper
Gulf grouper, creole spices, stone-ground cheese grits, braised collard greens, and cajun cream sauce
Filet Mignon
Center-cut beef tenderloin, bourbon demi-glace, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, glazed heirloom carrots, and crispy onions
Herb-Roasted Chicken
Free-range chicken breast, wild mushroom bread pudding, grilled asparagus, and truffle jus
Wild Mushroom Wellington
Puff pastry-wrapped assortment of seasonal wild mushrooms, truffle-scented risotto, roasted root vegetables, port wine reduction, and aged balsamic glaze
DESSERT
Chocolate Flourless Torte
Rich chocolate torte, fresh seasonal berries, salted chocolate ganache, and gold leaf
Tres Leches Cake
Vanilla-soaked sponge cake, cinnamon whipped cream, caramelized pineapple, and toasted coconut
Chef Jojo's Signature Key Lime Pie
Creamy key lime custard, graham cracker crust, toasted marshmallow meringue, and house-made guava sauce
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Please Select 1 appetizer, 1 salad, up to 2 entrees, either 1/2 portions or guest count of each selection, & 1 dessert option.
APPETIZERS
Lobster Bisque
Maine lobster, brandy cream, truffle essence, and chive oil,
creamed corn
Butter-Roasted Jumbo Shrimp
Wild-caught Gulf shrimp, roasted garlic & sweet corn purée, bacon jam, and herb oil
Beef Carpaccio & Bone Marrow
Thinly sliced prime tenderloin,
roasted bone marrow butter, truffle aioli, crispy capers, aged parmesan, and micro arugula
SALADS
Butter Lettuce & Bacon
Baby gem lettuce, candied bacon, blue cheese crumbles, heirloom tomatoes, and buttermilk ranch
Gluten-free, dairy optional
Caesar Royale
Romaine hearts, Parmesan frico, crispy pancetta, anchovy dressing, and gluten-free herb pancetta roasted croutons
ENTREE
Butter-Poached Lobster Tail
Maine lobster, saffron risotto, truffle butter, and chive oil
Pan-Seared Crab Stuffed Flounder
Miso-glazed sea bass, forbidden rice, shiitake mushrooms, and ginger-scallion butter, herbed blue crab salad
Hazelnut Panko Crusted Rack of Lamb
New Zealand lamb, rosemary-garlic crust, chevre mashed sweet potatoes, roasted vegetables, and port wine & fig reduction
Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon
Prime beef tenderloin, bourbon-peppercorn sauce, truffle mashed potatoes, and glazed heirloom carrots
DESSERT
Flourless lavender Chocolate Pretzel Torte, salted caramel, vanilla bean ice cream & blackberries
Grand Marnier Crème Brûlée
Rich vanilla custard, caramelized sugar crust, and orange-infused berries
Bourbon Bread Pudding with Pecan Prailine Ice Cream
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Please Select 1 appetizer, 1 salad, up to 2 entrees, either 1/2 portions or guest count of each selection, & 1 dessert option.
APPETIZERS
Crab Kibbeh
Bulgur wheat croquettes filled with lump crab, preserved lemon, mint, and served with cardamom-spiced yogurt
Za'atar Seared Scallops
Caramelized diver scallops, whipped tahini, charred lemon, pomegranate reduction, and toasted pine nuts
Dukkah-Crusted Lamb Chops
Herb-marinated rack of lamb, pistachio-sesame dukkah crust, smoky baba ganoush, sumac-pickled onions, and fresh herbs
SALADS
Fig & Arugula Salad
Wild arugula, fresh figs, citrus segments, halloumi cheese, toasted pistachios, and pomegranate molasses vinaigrette
Fattoush
Heirloom tomatoes, cucumber, radish, mint, parsley, sumac, crispy pita, and lemon-olive oil dressing
ENTREES
Harissa-Crusted Grouper
Spice-rubbed Gulf grouper, preserved lemon couscous, charred broccolini, and chermoula sauce
Gorgonzola & Date Stuffed Chicken
Free-range chicken breast stuffed with gorgonzola, medjool dates, and turkey bacon, served with saffron rice, mint yogurt, and pomegranate seeds
Moroccan-Spiced Tenderloin
Center-cut beef filet, ras el hanout rub, roasted garlic hummus, glazed baby carrots, and harissa demi-glace
Vegetable Tagine
Slow-cooked seasonal vegetables, dried fruit, aromatic saffron broth, toasted almonds, and cardamom-infused couscous
ENTREES
Baklava Chocolate Torte
Flourless chocolate cake, layered with honey-pistachio baklava, rose water ganache, and candied orange
Chef Jojo's Cardamom Key Lime Pie
Key lime custard infused with cardamom, graham-walnut crust, toasted marshmallow, and guava-rosewater sauce
Honey & Orange Blossom Panna Cotta
Creamy vanilla bean panna cotta, orange blossom honey, pistachio crumble, and macerated berries
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Please Select 1 appetizer, 1 salad, up to 2 entrees, either 1/2 portions or guest count of each selection, & 1 dessert option.
Appetizers
Crab & Coconut Samosas
Flaky pastry filled with jumbo lump crab, coconut, green curry spices, and mango-mint chutney
Scallop Pani Puri
Crispy semolina shells filled with seared scallops, tamarind water, chaat masala, and Thai basil oil
Duck Larb Lettuce Cups
Crispy duck with toasted rice powder, kaffir lime, lemongrass, mint, and butter lettuce cups
SALADS
Green Papaya & Lychee
Shredded green papaya, fresh lychee, heirloom tomatoes, cashews, and tamarind-chili vinaigrette
Watermelon & Paneer
Compressed watermelon, grilled paneer, mint, pomegranate seeds, and cardamom-lime dressing
ENTREES
Beef Rang Dang Brisket
24-hour slow-cooked brisket with Thai red curry paste, coconut Chawamushi custard, marinated grape tomatoes, and crispy shallots
Tandoori-Grilled Redfish
Yogurt-marinated redfish, saffron-coconut sauce, potato-pea samosa, and curry leaf oil
Gorgonzola-Date Butter Chicken
Tandoor-roasted chicken thighs, creamy tomato sauce infused with gorgonzola, medjool dates, curry leaves, and garlic naan
Masaman Lamb Chops
Herb-marinated rack of lamb, masaman curry sauce, roasted sweet potatoes, cashews, and Thai basil oil
Vegetable Makhanwala
Seasonal vegetables in a velvety tomato-fenugreek sauce, black cardamom rice, and house-made paneer
DESSERTS
Chocolate Cardamom Torte
Flourless chocolate cake, cardamom-infused ganache, saffron cream, and pistachio brittle
Purple Ube Cheesecake
ube, mango coulis, toasted coconut
Chai-Spiced Banana Pudding with Meringue
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Please Select 1 appetizer, 1 salad, up to 2 entrees, either 1/2 portions or guest count of each selection, & 1 dessert option.
Appetizers
Gulf Shrimp & Grits Soufflé
Jumbo Gulf shrimp, stone-ground grits soufflé, tasso ham, bourbon-shellfish reduction, and crispy okra chips
Black Truffle Boudin Balls
Heritage pork and dirty rice croquettes, black truffle aioli, pickled mirliton relish, and micro mustard greens
Duck & Andouille Gumbo
Slow-simmered duck confit, house-made andouille sausage, holy trinity vegetables, dark roux, and Carolina Gold rice
SALADS
Heirloom Tomato & Watermelon
Peak-season tomatoes, compressed watermelon, Creole spiced pecans, Belle Chevre goat cheese, and sorghum vinaigrette
Butter Lettuce & Blue Crab
Bibb lettuce cups, jumbo lump blue crab, charred corn, buttermilk dressing, and crispy chicken skin cracklings
ENTREES
From the Gulf
Blackened Redfish Acadiana
Cast iron-blackened Gulf redfish, crawfish étouffée, mirliton and corn maque choux, and crystal hot sauce beurre blanc
Pecan-Crusted Speckled Trout
Local speckled trout, bourbon-brown butter sauce, roasted sweet potato purée, and collard greens
From the Land
Buttermilk Fried Quail & Waffles
Deboned buttermilk-brined quail, black pepper-cornmeal waffles, bourbon-cane syrup, and foie gras butter
Smoked Beef Short Rib
12-hour smoked beef short rib, Creole mustard demi-glace, smoked Gouda grits, and pickled trinity vegetables
From the Garden
Louisiana Vegetable
Souffle velouté, buttermilk biscuit crust, and roasted garlic oil
Dessert
Banana Foster Soufflé
Warm banana soufflé, dark rum-caramel sauce, brown butter ice cream, and praline
Bourbon Pecan Bread Pudding
New Orleans-style bread pudding, toasted pecans, bourbon crème anglaise, and vanilla bean whipped cream
Blackberry & Sweet Corn Tart
Cornmeal pâte sucrée, blackberry-sweet corn custard, buttermilk chantilly, and honey brittle
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Please Select 1 appetizer, 1 salad, up to 2 entrees, either 1/2 portions or guest count of each selection, & 1 dessert option.
APPETIZERS
Charleston Bisque
She-crab soup, blue crab roe, sherry foam, and buttery brioche croutonsBeef Carpaccio
Paper-thin prime beef, truffle aioli, arugula, and aged parmesanOyster Trio
East Coast oysters, champagne mignonette, citrus pearls, and pepper relishSALADS
Deconstructed Wedge
Baby iceberg, heirloom tomatoes, blue cheese, bacon, and scallion dressingForager's Tableau
Seasonal greens, toasted nuts, dried fruits, goat cheese, and maple vinaigretteENTREES
From the Land
Prime Evolution
Filet mignon, bone marrow butter, bourbon sauce, and roasted fingerling potatoesSouthern Aristocrat
Crispy fried chicken, honey glaze, black garlic potatoes, and corn succotashFrom the Gulf
Local Caught Redfish, Snapper, or Grouper
Mango Buerre Blanc sauce, and smoked sweet potato cakeFrom the Garden
Forest Mosaic
Wild mushroom terrine, puff pastry, roasted vegetables, and aged balsamicDESSERTS
Orchard Reimagined
Apple tart, butter crumble, vanilla cream, and spiced cider sauceChocolate Stratification
Layered chocolate textures, salted caramel, and vanilla beanBanana Creme Brulee
Banana with brown sugar, cinnamon, & spiced rum -
GLUTEN FREE
Please Select 1 appetizer, 1 salad, up to 2 entrees, either 1/2 portions or guest count of each selection, & 1 dessert option.Appetizers
Lobster Bisque
Maine lobster, brandy cream, truffle essence, and chive oilButter-Roasted Jumbo Shrimp
Wild-caught Gulf shrimp, roasted garlic & sweet corn purée, bacon jam, and herb oil, savory and richGarlic Shrimp & Cauliflower Velvet
Sautéed jumbo shrimp, silky cauliflower purée, brown butter, crispy capers, and smoked paprika oilSalads
Butter Lettuce & Bacon
Baby gem lettuce, candied bacon, blue cheese crumbles, heirloom tomatoes, and buttermilk ranch, dairy optionalCaesar Royale
Romaine hearts, Parmesan frico, crispy prosciutto, anchovy dressing, and gluten-free herb croutonsEntrees
From the Waters
Pan-Seared Grouper
Miso-glazed Grouper, forbidden rice, shiitake mushrooms, and ginger-scallion butterFrom the Lands
Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb
New Zealand lamb, rosemary-garlic crust, parmesan polenta, roasted vegetables, and port wine reductionBacon-Wrapped Filet Mignon
Prime beef tenderloin, bourbon-peppercorn sauce, truffle mashed potatoes, and glazed heirloom carrotsRoyal Comfort
Truffled Risotto
Carnaroli rice, seasonal mushrooms, black truffle, mascarpone, and aged parmesanDesserts
Flourless Chocolate Torte
Valrhona chocolate, salted caramel, and vanilla bean ice cream
Gluten-free, intensely indulgentGrand Marnier Crème Brûlée
Rich vanilla custard, caramelized sugar crust, and orange-infused berries
Gluten-free, classically richPecan Bourbon Tart
Gluten-free shortbread crust, bourbon-vanilla filling, candied pecans, and whipped mascarpone
Bonfires & Buffets
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Shrimp, snow crab, andouille sausage, corn, mushrooms, broccoli, citrus & aromatics (medium heat)
Sides: Caesar salad & key lime pie -
Strawberry avocado salad with roasted corn, candied pecans & red onions
Tacos: Birria shrimp, al pastor chicken street tacos
Sides: Pineapple coleslaw, rice & beans
Dessert: Strawberry tres leches
Drinks: Margarita mixers (client provides alcohol) -
Cilantro lime Caesar salad, jerked chicken, honey tajin shrimp
Sides: Coconut rice, black beans, truffle roasted asparagus
Dessert: Strawberry tres leches -
Shaka sushi rolls buffet, ginger salad
Hot Bites: Snow crab rangoon with sweet Thai chili, chicken potstickers with sweet soy
Dessert: Tiramisu & key lime pie -
BBQ chicken, BBQ shrimp, smoked brisket
Sides: Mac & cheese, baked beans, coleslaw, collards, summer strawberry avocado salad
Dessert: S’more cups -
Prefer a custom menu? We offer 30 minutes of planning and a 30-minute consultation call with the chef.
+ $100 service fee
Choose from one of our chef-designed menus — all cooked fresh on-site and served with signature sides and desserts.
Start Your Booking
Start Your Booking
Tell us a bit about your event and we’ll take care of the rest. Whether it's an intimate dinner or a full-service bonfire buffet, we’ll craft something unforgettable for you.
Need a chef today? We’ve got you covered! Text us at (321) 877-8781
📱
Need a chef today? We’ve got you covered! Text us at (321) 877-8781 📱

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Hosting something special on 30A?
Hire Chef Jojo for a private, in-home dining experience you’ll never forget.