Growing up on the east coast, most of Ruben Valentin’s childhood memories involve food. Before Ruben could reach the stove, he was cooking with his mom, helping her prepare meals and learning traditional Latin cuisine. Pursuing his talents and passion, Ruben began working in kitchens during high school and later attended the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York .
Following graduation, Ruben jumped right into the bustling culinary scene in New York City. Valentin embraced all New York had to offer and gained experience in a variety of cuisines, including French at Café des Artistes, Japanese-Brazilian fusion at Sushi Samba, Italian at Fresco, and Greek at Barbounia. Ruben’s talent was recognized and awarded him Sous Chef and Executive Chef positions, including working as Sous Chef for Steven Santoro when he won the James Beard award and hosted a James Beard dinner for the “New York’s Greatest Chefs” series. In New York Ruben also found his interest in catering, working for one of the largest catering companies in New York City, RCANO.
After nearly 10 years in the New York food scene, Ruben Valentin moved to Colorado to enjoy the outdoors and healthy living. Ruben continued his work in corporate and catering industries. Ruben expanded on his knowledge of different ethnic cuisines to include utilizing local and sustainable practices while managing at Gaiam Headquarters Café and Eurest. Also, Ruben’s menus focused on specialty diets including vegan, gluten-free, paleo, and more. Considering his experience and knowledge, Ruben decided to pursue his own business and began catering his own private parties and events.
Alma Kitchen and Catering, Ruben Valentin’s creation, combines his expertise with his passions and beliefs to guarantee an unforgettable dining experience. Ruben puts infinite value in amazing, well-executed food and would settle for nothing less. At Alma Kitchen and Catering, you will cherish your experience with Ruben and understand why he lives to eat, not eats to live.
What Makes Us Different At Alma Kitchen and Catering we take pride in cooking with the seasons. As we love to celebrate delicious food, we love to do so when nature provides. Alma Kitchen and Catering works with you and the season to create menus with the freshest, most beautiful, and flavorful ingredients. We approach each event differently and work with you to customize and personalize your menu to best compliment your event.
How It Works We offer a variety of approaches to ensure your event is beyond expectations. You have the option to meet with us, and through conversation we create a menu inspired by your vision. Also, you have the option to allow the Alma chef's imagination to design a menu that will highlight your event. Another option, you call us and we provide our seasonal menu collection for you to choose from. Essentially, our mission is to provide you with exceptional food, quality ingredients and stunning presentation. Whatever your approach, we are able to work together to guarantee that your event will be a success.