Chef Jimmy Alvarado

Meet Chef Jimmy Alvarado – TigerHawk Sandwich Co. & On Time Catering

Born and raised in Lima, Peru, Chef Jimmy Alvarado comes from a family of chefs, where food was more than just nourishment—it was a way of life. After moving to Martha’s Vineyard at 26, he quickly became part of the island’s culinary fabric, honing his skills at The Beach Plum Inn, The Harbor View Hotel, Isola, and Lambert’s Cove Inn before launching his own ventures: Tigerhawk Sandwich Co. and On Time Catering.

Jimmy’s approach to food is unbound by a single cuisine. Instead, he fuses flavors from around the world, drawing from his Peruvian heritage and international travels to create dishes that are both inventive and deeply personal. Whether through a thoughtfully crafted sandwich or an elegant multi-course tasting menu, his food reflects a passion for bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and artistic plating.

At On Time Catering, Jimmy brings his unique culinary style to private events and weddings, curating unforgettable dining experiences rooted in seasonality, technique, and creativity . His work highlights Martha’s Vineyard’s rich bounty, forming close relationships with local farmers and fishermen to showcase the island’s best ingredients.

Jimmy has worked in James Beard Awarded Restaurants in New York City.  His travels and diverse work have amplified his use of flavor and creativity. Jimmy has been reviewed several times by MVTimes, The Vineyard Gazette, the Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post for his excellent and creative cuisine.  In 2016, he won the Local Wild Food Challenge.