Behind the Chef: The Culinary Journey of David D. Feldman
- Chef's David Feldman Blog
- Feb 15
- 4 min read
In the bustling port city of Haifa, nestled between the Carmel mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, a young David D. Feldman spent his childhood immersed in the intoxicating aromas of home-cooked meals.
His mother, Esther, a gifted and passionate cook, was the heart of the household—a woman who could transform the simplest ingredients into unforgettable dishes. She taught David more than just recipes; she instilled in him the belief that food is a bridge between people, a way to bring family and friends together, and an expression of love and tradition.
From an early age, David would stand beside his mother in their sunlit kitchen, watching as she kneaded dough, grilled spiced meats, and blended aromatic spices with an intuition that only years of experience could cultivate.
He learned the secrets of slow-roasting lamb until it melted off the bone, of balancing the tangy and the sweet in a perfect bowl of hummus, and of the importance of sourcing the freshest ingredients from the local market. Every meal was an event, a gathering that turned into a celebration of flavors, laughter, and community. It was in these moments that David discovered his true calling.
Mastering the Culinary Arts in Israel
Determined to turn his passion into a profession, David embarked on a rigorous culinary journey, working alongside some of Israel’s most revered chefs. He trained in the kitchens of Tel Aviv’s finest restaurants, mastering the delicate balance between Middle Eastern boldness and European refinement.
During this time, he also studied at Bishulim, one of the 12 best cooking institutes in the world, where he refined his techniques and expanded his culinary expertise. Under the mentorship of these culinary giants, he honed his technique, learning to perfect the art of handmade bread, delicate seafood preparations, and refined sauces drawn from classic French cuisine.
His experiences in Israel shaped his culinary identity—a fusion of his deep-rooted Middle Eastern heritage with the elegance of French gastronomy. He developed a signature style that was both sophisticated and soulful, a reflection of his upbringing and the high-end culinary skills he had acquired over the years. Yet, something was missing. David wanted to create experiences that went beyond the restaurant setting—something more personal, more intimate.
A New Chapter in New York City
With a dream to redefine private dining, David moved to New York City, a global hub for food lovers and culture. In the heart of Manhattan, he launched his own private chef service, curating bespoke dining experiences that turned ordinary nights into unforgettable celebrations.
From intimate gatherings to milestone events like 50th birthdays and bachelorette parties, he transformed homes into fine dining destinations. Each dinner was an orchestration of flavors, textures, and stories—a personalized journey through his unique fusion of Israeli-Middle Eastern and French culinary traditions.
Chef David D. Feldman mastered the art of hosting, creating an atmosphere that was warm, engaging, and elevated. Every element, from the plating to the storytelling behind each dish, was meticulously designed to leave guests talking about the experience for years to come.
Word spread quickly, and soon, families who had hired him for a birthday dinner found themselves calling him again—first for their child’s mitzvah, and later for their wedding. He wasn’t just a chef; he became a part of their most cherished memories.
The Birth of Kedma Catering NYC
By 2023, David saw a growing demand for his unique culinary approach, and with that, he took his passion to the next level—launching Kedma Catering NYC.
Named after the Hebrew word for “eastward,” Kedma represents David’s deep connection to his Middle Eastern roots and his commitment to bringing bold, innovative flavors to large-scale events.
Kedma quickly became one of the most sought-after catering companies for weddings, mitzvahs, and corporate gatherings across Manhattan, New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Chef David D. Feldman’s philosophy remained the same: every event should feel personal, every meal should tell a story, and every bite should transport guests to a world of culinary excellence.
The Art of Israeli-Middle Eastern Fusion Cuisine
David’s signature cuisine is a seamless blend of Israeli-Middle Eastern flavors and classic French finesse. He brings the vibrant spices of the Levant—sumac, za’atar, harissa—and pairs them with the precision of French techniques, creating dishes that are both rustic and refined. Think fire-roasted eggplant with tahini foam, slow-braised lamb shoulder with rosemary-infused jus, and saffron-scented seafood paella served alongside freshly baked laffa bread.
His approach is deeply farm-to-table, sourcing organic, seasonal ingredients from local purveyors to ensure every dish bursts with freshness and quality. Whether it’s a hand-rolled couscous with heirloom vegetables or a delicate foie gras terrine with fig preserves, David’s creations reflect his belief that food should be both nourishing and artistic.
Beyond Catering: Creating Culinary Memories
For David, catering is more than just serving food—it’s about creating experiences that linger in the hearts and minds of his clients. It’s about crafting a wedding feast so unforgettable that guests will reminisce about it for years, about designing a mitzvah menu that blends family traditions with modern flavors, and about ensuring that corporate events exude sophistication and warmth in equal measure.
Today, Chef David D. Feldman continues to push the boundaries of what catering can be, bringing his artistry, passion, and heritage to tables across the East Coast. Whether in an intimate home setting or a grand ballroom, his food remains an invitation—to taste, to celebrate, and to connect.
With each dish he serves, David carries forward his mother’s legacy—the magic of gathering around a table, sharing a meal made with love, and turning moments into lifelong memories.