Meet Jake Hollander – Chef Behind Goold Recipes

Hi there! I’m Jake Hollander, a 42-year-old chef living in the heart of Asheville, North Carolina. I’ve always believed that food is the one universal language that brings people together, and my kitchen has been my favorite gathering place since I first learned to stir a pot.

Roots in Vermont

I grew up in a small town in Vermont, where snowy winters meant hearty stews and summers tasted like fresh-picked berries and fire-grilled corn. My grandmother, Eleanor, was my first culinary hero. She had this magical way of turning the simplest ingredients into something extraordinary. She taught me to bake bread with patience, to make soup with love, and to never be afraid of getting a little messy in the kitchen.

A Journey Through Culinary School

After a few years working in restaurants across New England, I took the leap and enrolled at the Culinary Institute of America. That experience opened my eyes not just to technique, but to the stories behind every dish—the culture, the tradition, and the soul. I traveled as much as I could after graduation, cooking in bustling cities and sleepy towns from Savannah to Seattle. Everywhere I went, I collected recipes, stories, and spices that I now keep tucked in the corners of my kitchen.

Cooking in Asheville

These days, I focus on making food approachable, joyful, and just a little adventurous. I love playing with local Appalachian ingredients, turning them into dishes that feel both familiar and exciting. One of my favorite recent experiments was a ramp and mushroom tart that reminded me of my Vermont roots but had a bold Southern twist.

Philosophy in the Kitchen

Cooking for me isn’t about perfection—it’s about connection. I’ve burnt my fair share of roux and over-salted a few sauces, but each mistake has taught me something new. I share these experiences with my community through cooking classes, pop-up dinners, and my blog, where I post recipes, kitchen tips, and the occasional tale of culinary mischief.

An Invitation to Home Cooks

To anyone who’s ever felt intimidated by the kitchen, I say this: start small, be curious, and don’t worry about the mess. The best meals are made with heart, not haute cuisine. If I can help you feel a little more confident with a skillet or spark a new love for cooking, then I’ve done my job.

So come on in—there’s always room at my table, and something delicious just about to come out of the oven.

Let’s Stay Connected

If you’ve made it this far — thank you. Truly.
Whether you’re a busy mom, a college student, or someone just looking for something warm to put on the table, I’m so glad you’re here.

Let’s keep in touch:

Follow me on Pinterest for visual inspiration

Join me on Facebook for weekly comfort food ideas

Subscribe via email at [email protected] for new recipes, kitchen stories, and the occasional dad joke or tip

From my kitchen to yours —

Jake Hollander