Alicia Ojeda

Alicia Ojeda

Executive Chef

Originally from Los Angeles, Chef Alicia grew up surrounded by the rich cultural and culinary heritage of her Mexican family. She is classically-trained in the culinary arts with a career spanning more than 25 years. Among the many roles she has played professionally, she has always been a creative force.

She served as Executive Chef for Dreamworks Studio, Managing Chef for Bon Appétit at Sony Music, Executive Chef at Beets Cafe in Austin, Texas and more recently as the retreat chef for Australia athlete, Grant Campbell, in Thailand. Chef Alicia was also invited to be the Executive Chef for the Woodstock Fruit Festival.

A proud grandmother of three, she has completed two sprint distance triathlons and a 90-day Bikram Yoga challenge. Her own experience with significant weight loss coupled with new found energy inspired her to dedicate her life to helping people redefine their relationship with food, empowering them to create their own masterpieces.

“Another world deep within untouched natural beauty of the Catskills. You have to come here to truly experience the sublime healing energy it has.”

Nathaniel H.

“The genius is in the details of this place. Simple . elegant and chic. The food is always creative, delicious and healthy. The staff is right on. There is nothing they won’t do to make you comfortable. And then there’s the Spa. It’s the big embrace when you walk through the door. The whole place is a huge container of LOVE.”

Elaine Mackle

“Menla is a truly inspiring place to live and work. I can’t imagine a better environment in the US for me to be of service, help a very meaningful cause, and learn about Tibet, Buddhism, yoga, and the world of health & wellness. I have a tremendous amount of gratitude for Robert & Nena Thurman’s vision, not to mention for everyone else who helps make Menla a place I can feel genuinely proud to work for.”

David B.

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