Hello, dear friends and food lovers! I'm Elexsis Caliskan—founder, owner, and now proudly the Executive Chef of Mon Cheri Restaurants. If you've followed my story, you know my path hasn't been a straight line from the kitchen. But today, I'm thrilled to share how life's twists and turns have led me right here, behind the stoves of our beloved America-Turkish-inspired haven in Old Town Scottsdale.

For those new to my world, let's rewind a bit. I spent 13 incredible years in the beauty industry as an importer-exporter, creating over 150 products, including the game-changing Original MakeUp Eraser. Building that brand was a whirlwind of creativity and hustle, culminating in a successful sale in 2020. I stayed on for two more years, steering a $100 million beauty empire and honing my skills in brand strategy. It was rewarding, but in 2023, life took an unexpected turn. Amid personal hardships—losses that stripped away the familiar and forced me to rebuild—I discovered a new calling. That's when Mon Cheri was born, not just as a restaurant, but as a sanctuary of love, community, and genuine homemade flavors.

This rebirth wasn't just professional; it was deeply spiritual and tied me to Turkish roots. On September 8, 2023, in Fethiye, Turkey—I experienced a profound rebirth. Yeshua Hamashiach (Jesus Christ) saved me. It felt like being born anew at 39, free from past burdens, with a renewed purpose to spread love and acceptance. This moment reshaped everything, infusing Mon Cheri with a spirit of grace and renewal, much like the seasonal celebrations we host to honor growth, resurrection, and community.

Opening Mon Cheri was no small feat. I poured 19 months into finding the right team, cycling through over 500 employees and countless chefs. Along the way, I immersed myself in every aspect of the operation—serving tables, bartending, hosting, and yes, cooking. With over 10,000 hours on the floor, I learned the rhythm of a bustling kitchen firsthand. My foundation in cooking actually stems from my 18 years as a mom to four amazing children (and now a grandma!). Boredom in the kitchen turned into a passion project: mastering cuisines from around the world, one family dinner at a time. Traveling globally, living in a Turkish village, and raising a family shaped my love for food that's heartfelt, unique, and made with care.

After too many trials with external chefs, I realized the vision for Mon Cheri needed my touch. So, I've stepped fully into the role of Executive Chef. This isn't just a title—it's a commitment to crafting dishes that blend my new Turkish roots with my time in the kitchen as a mom, all while keeping things fresh, healthy, and unforgettable. From our signature Pink Pasta to Turkish Breakfast, every plate is homemade, genuine, and infused with the same love that built this place.

What makes Mon Cheri special? It's our team—a vibrant group of 40 young talents, all under 30, whom I mentor daily. I teach 22-year-olds to bake imperfect cheesecakes, 19-year-olds to grill ribeye, and everyone the power of hard work and teamwork. We wake up each day asking: How can we make Mon Cheri better? How can we uplift our community? In Old Town, we've created a safe, loving environment where employees thrive in this challenging industry, and guests feel like family.

Throughout all of this, there has been a gentle hand gracefully, ensuring that we are successful. Yeshua Hamashiach, Jesus Christ my love, my savior, my dear, Mon Cheri. If you're curious about that deeper story, check out my journey 

As Executive Chef, I'm excited to elevate our menus even further. Expect more innovative specials, like our monthly limited brunch offerings and the immersive Girlfriend Dinner Experience, or our Bend & Snap program ($10 family meals for those in need). Whether you're joining us for a vibey brunch, a celebratory dinner, or just a cozy meal, know that every bite comes from the heart.

Come visit us soon—With love,

Chef Lexi

Founder, Owner & Executive Chef

Mon Cheri Restaurants

PS. You will never find me talking about me, without testifying for Him. Get over it. :)