We had the good fortune of connecting with Mat Meyer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mat, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
Chef Meyer’s remarkable journey from homelessness to founding Ansley Table is a testament to his unwavering determination and passion for the culinary arts. His story, now enriched by his active involvement on the shelter’s board, highlights his dedication not only to culinary excellence but also to making a meaningful impact in the community.

Ansley Table goes beyond providing exceptional catering services; it plays a vital role in supporting the community. Chef Meyer and his team are committed to giving back by partnering with local shelters and organizations. Through initiatives such as job training programs, food donation drives, and culinary workshops, Ansley Table empowers individuals in need, providing them with the skills and opportunities to build better futures. Chef Meyer’s personal experience and continued advocacy serve as an inspiration, showing that with determination and support, anyone can overcome adversity and contribute positively to society.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Founded by Chef and Owner Mat Meyer in 2022, Ansley Table has swiftly become a beacon of custom fine dining, earning accolades as one of the premier catering and private chef services in Arizona. Mat Meyer, along with the gifted chefs Joshua Rodriguez-Urroz and Emily Leitzell, creates unforgettable culinary experiences for a distinguished clientele.

Ansley Table’s narrative is one of both culinary mastery and personal triumph. Chef Mat Meyer’s remarkable journey from homelessness to establishing Ansley Table is a powerful testament to his determination, passion, and the transformative power of food. Now, as a member of the shelter’s board, Chef Mat continues to elevate his impact on the community.

Ansley Table is distinguished by its unwavering commitment to using only the finest ingredients and its dedication to crafting unique, custom experiences for each client. Every dish tells a story, reflecting the chefs’ identities and passions, with the aim of connecting guests to new realities through the artistry of food.

Their services encompass private dinners, distinctive catering experiences, weddings, and other special occasions, each meticulously tailored to the specific desires of their clients.

Featuring Ansley Table on your platform would offer an inspiring story of culinary excellence, innovation, and passion, coupled with a powerful narrative of overcoming adversity. Chef Mat Meyer would be delighted to demonstrate the preparation of a signature dish, showcasing the artistry and skill that define Ansley Table.

This opportunity promises to captivate your audience and highlight the incredible talent and dedication behind Ansley Table. We look forward to discussing this opportunity further.

People should read about Ansley Table because it is more than just a culinary business; it is a story of resilience, passion, and culinary excellence. Founded in 2022 by Chef Mat Meyer, who transformed his life from homelessness to become a celebrated chef, Ansley Table has quickly risen to prominence as one of the best catering and private chef services in Arizona.

Our journey is not only about overcoming adversity but also about redefining fine dining. Chef Mat Meyer, along with the talented chefs Joshua Rodriguez-Urroz and Emily Leitzell, brings unparalleled creativity and dedication to every dish. This trio has been recognized for their innovative approach, using only the finest ingredients to craft unforgettable culinary experiences tailored to each client’s unique needs.

Ansley Table has received numerous accolades, including being named one of the top catering services in Arizona two years in a row and has been featured on local news outlets across Arizona. Chef Mat’s personal story of triumph and his commitment to excellence set us apart. As a new member of the shelter’s board, Chef Mat continues to give back to the community, further illustrating the transformative power of food and determination.

What makes us stand out is our ability to turn dining into an art form, where every meal tells a story and creates a lasting impression. Our services range from private dinners to unique catering experiences and weddings, all designed to connect our guests to new realities through the artistry of food.

By reading about Ansley Table, people will discover an inspiring story of resilience, the pursuit of culinary excellence, and the remarkable achievements of a team dedicated to crafting memorable experiences.

What sets Ansley Table apart from the competition is our unique blend of personal resilience, exceptional culinary artistry, and unwavering commitment to creating custom dining experiences. Here’s what makes us different:

1. Inspiring Backstory: Ansley Table was founded by Chef Mat Meyer, whose journey from homelessness to becoming a celebrated chef is a testament to determination and passion. This personal story adds a profound layer of authenticity and inspiration to our brand.

2. Award-Winning Excellence: In a short span, Ansley Table has garnered numerous accolades, including being named one of the top catering services in Arizona for two consecutive years. Our reputation for excellence is well-recognized and celebrated.

3. Talented Team: Our team, including chefs Joshua Rodriguez-Urroz and Emily Leitzell, brings a diverse range of skills and creativity to the table. Their combined expertise allows us to craft innovative and unforgettable dishes.

4. Community Involvement: Chef Mat’s commitment to giving back is evident through his involvement as a new member of the shelter’s board. This dedication to community service highlights our ethos of using culinary success to make a positive impact.

5. Customization and Creativity: We excel in creating personalized dining experiences that cater to the specific needs and preferences of our clients. Each menu is crafted with care, using the finest ingredients, and designed to leave a lasting impression.

6. Artistry in Food: We believe in turning dining into an art form. Every dish we create is not just a meal but a story, designed to evoke emotions and connect guests to new culinary realities.

By choosing Ansley Table, clients are not just opting for a catering service; they are embracing an experience that combines exceptional food, inspiring stories, and a commitment to excellence that truly sets us apart.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Absolutely, I’d be delighted to share an itinerary for a week-long trip that captures some of the best culinary and cultural experiences. Here’s what I recommend:

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation
~Morning: Check into a luxury hotel like The Phoenician in Scottsdale.
~Afternoon: Relax at the hotel spa or pool.
~Evening: Dinner at Kai Restaurant in Chandler, renowned for its Native American cuisine and exquisite dining experience.

Day 2: Exploring Scottsdale
~Morning: Breakfast at The Breakfast Club in Old Town Scottsdale.
~Late Morning: Visit the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art.
~Lunch: Head to The Mission for some modern Latin cuisine.
~Afternoon: Explore the Scottsdale Waterfront and Fashion Square.
~Evening: Enjoy a night out at Second Story Liquor Bar for craft cocktails and small bites.

Day 3: Culinary Adventure in Phoenix
~Morning: Start with a hearty breakfast at Matt’s Big Breakfast.
~Late Morning: Visit the Desert Botanical Garden.
~Lunch: Head to Pizzeria Bianco for some of the best pizza in the country.
~Afternoon: Explore Roosevelt Row for its vibrant arts scene.
~Evening: Dinner at Course Restaurant, a multi-course dining experience by Chef Cory Oppold.

Day 4: Wine and Art in Sedona
~Morning: Drive to Sedona and check into L’Auberge de Sedona.
~Lunch: Enjoy lunch at Elote Café, famous for its innovative Mexican cuisine.
~Afternoon: Explore the Sedona Arts Center and take a scenic hike at Cathedral Rock.
~Evening: Wine tasting and dinner at Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill with stunning red rock views.

Day 5: Day Trip to Jerome and Cottonwood
~Morning: Drive to the historic town of Jerome.
~Late Morning: Visit the Jerome State Historic Park and Gold King Mine Museum.
~Lunch: Have lunch at The Haunted Hamburger.
~Afternoon: Head to Cottonwood for a wine tasting tour at Page Springs Cellars and Arizona Stronghold Vineyards.
~Evening: Return to Sedona for a relaxed dinner at Cress on Oak Creek.

Day 6: Adventure and Dining in Flagstaff
~Morning: Drive to Flagstaff and have breakfast at Tourist Home All Day Café.
~Late Morning: Visit the Lowell Observatory.
~Lunch: Dine at Shift Kitchen & Bar for some innovative small plates.
~Afternoon: Explore Walnut Canyon National Monument.
~Evening: Dinner at Tinderbox Kitchen for a blend of contemporary and Southwestern cuisine.

Day 7: Return to Phoenix and Departure
~Morning:Return to Phoenix, stopping at Montezuma Castle National Monument on the way.
~Lunch: Enjoy a farewell lunch at The Farm at South Mountain, offering farm-to-table freshness.
~Afternoon: Relax and maybe do some last-minute shopping at Biltmore Fashion Park.
~Evening: Dinner at FnB Restaurant, known for its locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes.

This itinerary covers a mix of fine dining, local gems, cultural experiences, and natural beauty, ensuring a week filled with unforgettable memories and tastes all shared with my wife Jill.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Kayla Whiting Kolar from The House of Refuge

Website: www.ansleytable.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ansleytable?igsh=MWlsbTJxeTdlcmRy&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChefxMat?mibextid=LQQJ4d 

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.