Harvies & Our Culinary Story

Learn about Michael Harvies, the inspiration behind CheasKitchen. Discover our hands-on cooking philosophy, community focus, and what makes our kitchen in Chesapeake so special.

From Home Cook to Culinary Educator

Michael Harvies’ journey began in his grandmother’s Chesapeake kitchen, where the scent of simmering sauces and baked bread stirred his lifelong love for food. After formal training at the Virginia Culinary Institute, Michael spent over a decade working in professional kitchens across the East Coast—from cozy bistros to high-end restaurants.

Driven by a desire to share his passion and make cooking more accessible, Michael returned home to Chesapeake, VA, and founded CheasKitchen. His goal? To empower everyday people to feel confident in the kitchen, explore new flavors, and enjoy the magic of making meals from scratch.

Kitchen Philosophy

Simple Ingredients. Big Flavor. Real Skills.

At CheasKitchen, we believe cooking should be approachable, joyful, and nourishing. Our classes focus on:

  • Fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms and markets.
  • Hands-on learning where every student is part of the process.
  • Respect for culinary traditions while encouraging creative exploration.

Whether you’re preparing pasta from scratch or learning how to balance spices, we guide you to cook with intention and excitement.

A Kitchen Built for Learning and Connection

Our custom-designed classroom kitchen blends professional-grade tools with the warmth of a home kitchen. Located just minutes from downtown Chesapeake, the space features:

  • Spacious individual prep stations
  • A chef’s demonstration area
  • Communal tasting table for post-class feasting
  • Comfortable lighting and plenty of natural charm

It’s the perfect environment to learn, laugh, and cook together.

Community Impact

Rooted in Chesapeake. Growing Together.

CheasKitchen isn’t just a business—it’s a hub for culinary connection in the community. We proudly support:

  • Local food festivals and farmer’s markets
  • Youth cooking workshops for schools and after-school programs
  • Nonprofit collaborations that promote nutrition education and food security
  • Free demos and talks at local community centers

We believe that food can unite, inspire, and uplift—and we’re committed to making that happen, one class at a time.

Meet the Team

We’re a small but mighty team of passionate food lovers who believe in sharing knowledge and spreading joy through every dish.
👨‍🍳 Michael Harvies

Founder & Head Chef
 Chef, instructor, mentor, and the heart behind every class.

👩‍🍳 Laura Mills

Guest Pastry Chef
 An expert in sweet creations and seasonal baking.

🧑‍🍳 Darius Lee

Culinary Assistant
 Helps students feel comfortable and confident with every step.

👩‍💼 Kayla Benson

Event Coordinator
 Manages class bookings, private events, and all the behind-the-scenes magic.