Matthew Harker

Matthew Steven Harker was a talented private chef and entrepreneur who owned The Suites At 550, a personal chef and event design business in the Boston area. His passion for cooking began in childhood, spending time in the kitchen with his Calabrese and Galician grandparents.2

Career and Achievements

Matthew pursued his culinary passion by obtaining a degree in culinary arts, specializing in nutrition and food science from Johnson & Wales University.1 He honed his skills in kitchens across the country and eventually established himself as a respected chef in Boston. Some of his notable achievements include:

• Being named Boston's Best Private Chef by Boston Magazine
• Appearing on an episode of the television show Chopped
• Becoming a member of The Chef's Collaborative, a network of leading chefs working to change the food landscape1

Culinary Philosophy

Matthew was known for his:

• Creativity and passion in the kitchen
• Use of local and sustainably sourced ingredients
• Ability to entertain and engage people through his cooking

He viewed cooking not just as a profession but as an art form and a way to care for others.1

Personal Life

Matthew was described as a cherished son, brother, friend, and partner. He was known for his:

• Generosity and loyalty
• Ability to make people feel special and valued
• Love for travel and exploring new cuisines
• Passion for outdoor activities and fitness
• Pride in being a member of the LGBTQ community and his activism1

Tragically, Matthew Steven Harker passed away unexpectedly in his sleep at his home in Dorchester, Massachusetts on May 31, 2020.1