About RustiChef
A passion for food, a commitment to excellence, and a belief that everyone deserves a home cooked meal.
Meet Chef Austin
Born and raised in Asheville, NC, Chef Austin Ellison grew up surrounded by the rich traditions of Southern cooking. He started out at age 8 in his great-great-grandmother's kitchen. He learned from her, making drop biscuits from scratch, garden vegetables cooked to perfection in a skillet, and Sunday dinner with all the fixins. These are the types of meals that bring people together around the table.
In 2024, Austin made the leap to Seattle, bringing his deep love of cooking down-home country comfort food to the Pacific Northwest. But he didn't leave his creativity behind. Austin also brings a fresh, culturally diverse twang to the meals he prepares.
Whether it's a hearty southern breakfast, pho from scratch, or an elegant plated dinner, every dish Austin creates is crafted with love, locally-sourced / homegrown ingredients, and a commitment to making you feel right at home.
Austin's Philosophy
Seasonal & Local
Austin sources ingredients from local farms and purveyors, ensuring peak freshness and supporting our local communities. Austin and his partner Michael meticulously grow a variety of seasonal produce (ranging from saffron to rhubarb to apples), which are featured in many of the dishes he prepares.
Made from Scratch
Every sauce, stock, and dressing is handmade. No shortcuts, no preservatives. Just honest, delicious food.
Personalized Menus
Your food is tailored to your / your family's tastes, dietary needs, and preferences. If you want it, I will create it.
Sustainable Practices
Austin attempts to minimizes food waste, use eco-friendly packaging, and makes conscious choices to reduce his environmental footprint.
Why Choose RustiChef
Southern Roots, City Polish
Asheville-raised comfort food expertise with a modern Seattle sensibility.
Flexible & Reliable
From one-time events to weekly meal prep, Austin adapts to your schedule and needs.
Stress-Free Experience
Austin handles the shopping, cooking, and cleanup — you simply enjoy the meal.