Chef José DeJesus, professionally known as “Trill Cooker,” is a nationally recognized Puerto Rican-American chef, television personality, and culinary entrepreneur with more than two decades of experience. A proud Bronx native, he has built a distinguished career spanning acclaimed New York City kitchens, national television, and exclusive private dining for some of the most prominent names in entertainment, sports, and business.

A graduate of the Art Institute of New York City and former Chef de Cuisine at Eataly, DeJesus has established himself as a sought-after private chef whose clientele includes Alex Rodriguez, Jennifer Lopez, and numerous other celebrities, professional athletes, and influential figures. His culinary expertise, creativity, and discretion have earned him a place in the world of luxury hospitality. 

His national television accomplishments include becoming a top-eight finalist on FOX's Hell's Kitchen with Gordon Ramsay and defeating Bobby Flay on Food Network's Beat Bobby Flay. His career and culinary ventures have been featured in The New York Times, NBC New York, PIX11, Gothamist, amNewYork, Telemundo, and Univision, among other media outlets. 

An accomplished entrepreneur, DeJesus gained recognition for his underground, invitation-only pop-up dining experiences, transforming his own kitchen, private homes, and unconventional venues throughout New York City into intimate fine-dining destinations. From exclusive dinners hosted in his own kitchen and private residences to celebrated chef's-counter experiences at Mottley Kitchen in Mott Haven, his inventive multi-course tasting menus attracted media attention and helped showcase New York City's vibrant and evolving culinary scene. 

Today, DeJesus continues to work with ultra-high-net-worth individuals, celebrities, and prominent figures in sports and entertainment, providing bespoke culinary services and exceptional private dining experiences. Despite the demands of his exclusive clientele, he remains dedicated to his entrepreneurial passion. In his time away from private chef engagements, he continues to develop Trill Dining Club, his independent culinary venture featuring invitation-only dinners, intimate chef-driven experiences, and exclusive collaborations. 

Chef José DeJesus's career is a testament to culinary excellence, innovation, and the ambition to build something of his own. Proud of his Puerto Rican roots and the Bronx community that shaped him, he has forged a path from intimate underground supper clubs to national television and the private tables of internationally recognized figures. His journey reflects not only professional achievement, but also the determination, creativity, and entrepreneurial vision that continue to define his legacy.