There’s a noticeable energy in the air when Chef Mike DiLeo enters a room. He is both a talented chef and a performer. He doesn’t just cook; he takes charge. Raised in Staten Island, DiLeo has a strong Italian heritage. He perfectly blends tradition and innovation. His reputation has taken him from local kitchens to celebrity homes, from TV studios to the heart of New Jersey, where his unique blend of upscale dining and hospitality has become a sensation.
This year, DiLeo’s star shined brighter than ever. His participation in New York City’s famous San Gennaro Festival—an important event for any Italian-American chef—has pushed him further into the spotlight. The festival, which celebrates culture, faith, and community, attracted huge crowds. DiLeo’s booth became one of the event’s main attractions. “The energy at San Gennaro is like nothing else,” he states. “You’re cooking for thousands, each with their own taste of tradition. You have to satisfy every craving—while doing it with heart.”
Chef Mike DiLeo
That heart—and showmanship—transitioned smoothly to the screen. After San Gennaro, DiLeo appeared on several television shows, showcasing his flair on morning and lifestyle programs. His lively personality and innovative takes on Italian classics impressed viewers throughout the tri-state area. The momentum from those appearances keeps growing, and nowhere is the Chef Mike effect felt more strongly than in New Jersey.
Across the Garden State, DiLeo’s private dining experiences have become highly talked about. His mantra—“We bring the restaurant to you”—has taken off in neighborhoods from Bergen County to the Jersey Shore. Whether he is turning a family kitchen into a top-notch setup or converting a backyard into a vibrant dining event, DiLeo guarantees one thing: nobody lifts a finger except to raise a glass.
“I can cook in any space, with any equipment,” he confidently states. “The transformation begins the moment I walk in. My clients should feel like guests at their own party—relaxed, enjoying the night, without worrying about timing, cleanup, or anything else.”
This ease is what has made Chef Mike a well-known name throughout New Jersey. In a state recognized for its fast pace, close-knit families, and rich food traditions, his ability to customize menus for all ages, diets, and tastes sets him apart. “It’s always about what makes the client happy,” he explains. “That’s what truly matters.”
For DiLeo, it’s never just about the food—it’s about the overall experience. Every event is arranged like a show: the flow of guests, the bar setup, the music, and the presentation of each course. “When I walk in, I think like both a chef and a director,” he says. “The goal is to create an experience people will remember and talk about.”
His focus on atmosphere has made him the face of what he calls “vibe dining”—where fine dining meets lively energy. His interactive pasta parties, featuring tableside parmesan tossing and dynamic DJ sets, are quickly becoming a hallmark across the state. “When there’s a DJ, I know the vibe will be electric,” he laughs. “Great food in an exciting atmosphere—that’s what it’s all about.”
While he has cooked for many celebrities, DiLeo insists he treats everyone equally. “Hollywood or Hoboken—it doesn’t matter,” he states. “Every client gets the same royal Chef Mike treatment.” This consistency has built him a reputation based not only on flavor, but also on trust. In New Jersey, word spreads quickly—and Chef Mike’s name spreads even faster.
One thing he is eager to clarify is the idea that private chefs stick to simple food. “Not in my kitchen,” he says with a smile. “Everything I make has to be first-rate. If I had to sum up the flavor of New Jersey in one word? Spicy.”
Beyond the kitchen, DiLeo is helping reshape the culinary scene. With many restaurants still recovering from the pandemic, his approach to private dining helps keep local food culture alive. “Your brand needs to stand out,” he says. “You have to be different—and you need to be noticed.”
For Chef Mike, that difference is all about connection. “The feedback from clients means everything,” he says. “When they tell me they wouldn’t do another event without me—that’s the real reward.”
As 2026 settles in, Chef Mike shows no signs of slowing down. His presence in New Jersey continues to expand, his bookings are increasing, and he remains focused on his goals: bigger, better, bolder. “Every year, we raise the bar,” he says. “And every year, the response amazes us.”
From the lively streets of Little Italy to the vibrant backyards of Bergen County, Chef Mike DiLeo is changing the meaning of private dining—transforming meals into unforgettable experiences, and New Jersey into his stage.
Bridget Mulroy is a journalist based in Red Bank, New Jersey, Calabasas, California and Manhattan, New York who covers geology, seismology, botany, biology, & community news.
Dining and Cooking