MEET THE CHEF
Hi, I’m Justin Testoria
Food creator, flavor enthusiast, and the culinary mind behind Mix & Taste
MY JOURNEY
From Food Lover to Recipe Creator
My love affair with cooking began in my grandmother’s kitchen in Portland, Oregon, where I spent countless afternoons watching her transform simple ingredients into extraordinary meals. Those early experiences taught me that cooking isn’t just about following recipes—it’s about understanding flavors, respecting ingredients, and creating moments of joy.
After earning my culinary degree from Le Cordon Bleu and spending five years working in professional kitchens across the Pacific Northwest, I discovered my true passion: making restaurant-quality cooking accessible to home cooks. I wanted to bridge the gap between professional techniques and everyday cooking.
That’s why I created Mix & Taste—a space where culinary tradition meets modern innovation, where complex flavors are made simple, and where every recipe is tested in my own kitchen before it reaches yours.
COOKING PHILOSOPHY
What I Believe
My approach to cooking is built on these core principles
Quality Over Quantity
Every recipe is meticulously tested and refined. I’d rather share ten perfect recipes than a hundred mediocre ones.
Fresh & Seasonal
Cooking with the seasons means better flavor, better nutrition, and better value. I design recipes around what’s fresh and available.
Accessible Excellence
Great food shouldn’t require exotic ingredients or professional equipment. My recipes work in real home kitchens.
EXPERIENCE & EXPERTISE
A Decade of Culinary Excellence
My culinary journey has taken me from five-star restaurants to teaching home cooks, and every experience has shaped how I create recipes today.
Le Cordon Bleu Graduate
Classically trained in French culinary techniques
5 Years in Professional Kitchens
Worked in award-winning restaurants across Portland and Seattle
Recipe Developer & Food Writer
Created 500+ tested recipes for Mix & Taste and food publications
Featured in Food & Wine Magazine
Recognized for innovative approach to home cooking
BEYOND THE KITCHEN
When I’m Not Cooking
A glimpse into my life outside the kitchen
Music Lover
Playing guitar and exploring Portland’s live music scene
Outdoor Enthusiast
Hiking the Pacific Northwest trails every weekend
Travel Adventurer
Collecting recipes and culinary inspiration from around the world
LET’S CONNECT
Cook Along With Me
I’d love to see what you’re cooking! Share your Mix & Taste creations on Pinterest and tag me for a chance to be featured.
Questions? Email me at justin@mixandtaste.com