Bryan Donaldson

Executive Chef, Nostrana

Bryan Donaldson

Bryan Donaldson is the Executive Chef of Nostrana, where he has worked alongside chef-owner Cathy Whims for over a decade. A thoughtful and precise cook with a deep respect for seasonality, Bryan leads the kitchen with a balance of technical excellence and creative collaboration. His leadership ensures that Nostrana continues to honor its roots in regional Italian cooking while embracing Portland’s bounty of farmers, foragers, and artisans.

From guiding daily service to shaping special events and private dining, Bryan’s steady hand and commitment to craft make him an integral part of Nostrana’s enduring legacy. His work reflects the same values that define the Jacques Pépin Foundation—mentorship, education, and the joy of bringing people together around the table.

Related Event

Plate of food at Nostrana

As Nostrana marks its 20th anniversary and Jacques Pépin turns 90, our restaurant has been selected as one of the 90 international locations to host a dinner in Chef Pépin's honor. We invite you to an extraordinary evening that brings together some of Oregon's most celebrated chefs, winemakers, and culinary voices for a once-in-a-lifetime gathering.