The late chef Anthony Bourdain once recalled a realization from early in his career. “Food had power. It could inspire, astonish, shock, excite, delight and impress. It had the power to please me … and others.”
These words resonate deeply with Chef Jasmine Capizano of Coterie Cathedral Hill, who harnesses the power of food much to the delight of the residents of the luxury senior living community in San Francisco.
“My mother was my inspiration to become a chef,” Chef Jasmine says. “She was a fantastic baker and chef who shared her passion for the culinary arts. Growing up, we would watch cooking shows, explore many cuisines and have fun in the kitchen.”
In her youth, her interest was furthered by volunteering in kitchens specializing in distinct cuisine from different cultures.
Her professional career began in high-end luxury hotels across the Bay Area, including the San Francisco Proper Hotel, where she trained under Michelin Star Chef Jason Fox, as well as the Sir Francis Drake Hotel and Hotel Shattuck Plaza in Berkeley.
Chef Jasmine’s expertise spans Mediterranean, Californian and Japanese cuisine.
“For me, true fulfillment in the kitchen comes from collaborating with a team of professionals. Together, we enrich the palates and create memorable moments for those who experience our craft,” she says.
For the past two years, those experiences have been savored by the residents of Coterie Cathedral Hill, where she serves as chef de cuisine.
Making a difference in the lives of residents brings Chef Jasmine a profound sense of fulfillment, one that’s facilitated by the thoughtful design of the community.
The open kitchen in the Seven x Seven Grille and the ample windows in the Monarch Room restaurant allow her to connect with residents and see them enjoy her food in real time.
“I love the moments when residents thank the cooks and hold hearts with their hands up to the windows,” she says. “It means so much and leaves lasting smiles on both sides of the window.”
Additionally, Chef Jasmine appreciates the ways Coterie Cathedral Hill pays homage to the celebrated history of San Francisco.
Whether through timeless black-and-white photographs, evocative works of famous artists throughout the building, or by utilizing fresh ingredients from local artisans in the kitchen, Coterie Cathedral Hill reflects the essence of the Bay Area in a way that connects with residents and employees alike.
Though her menu is constantly rotating, Chef Jasmine’s favorite dish to prepare is shakshuka with pita. She loves its simplicity, fulfilling nature and satisfying flavors.
“Anything with tomatoes and garlic, I’m all for,” she says. “Above all, I believe food prepared with love and conscious energy elevates the experience for those who consume it.”
With intention, passion and flair, Chef Jasmine continues to take the culinary program at Coterie Cathedral Hill to new heights.