ABOUT US
For the love of food.
Discover the journey of Peja Vu, a culinary adventure led by Chef Ryan Messner. From our humble beginnings in a beloved food truck to a catering service and new culinary collaborations in Sheboygan County, Chef Ryan's passion for honest and thoughtful food shines through in every dish. Join us in savoring the flavors of our journey.
At Peja Vu, we are proud to work with catering clients 1-on-1 to deliver custom-made menus for each event we do. We strive to work with each customer to offer a unique culinary experience that fits their needs. You won’t find a list of menu options for your catering needs— we want to hear from you first.
Not to mention the food truck— a celebration of all things taco — whether you're craving something traditional or ready to explore our gourmet creations. It's the perfect fusion of the familiar and the innovative, delivering a taco experience that’s both comforting and exciting.
As the visionary behind Peja Vu, Chef Ryan brings a wealth of culinary knowledge and a creative flair to every dish. His contemporary vision means that whether you're looking for a traditional taco truck experience or modern private dining, Peja Vu is for you.
Meet Chef Ryan
At the heart of Peja Vu is Chef Ryan, a culinary visionary whose journey has been shaped by a lifetime of cooking, creating, and experimenting with food. From his early years washing dishes and working in small restaurants to owning a pub and grill, and then diving into the world of fine dining, Chef Ryan's experience spans decades. His career has been a blend of artistry and dedication, with 23 years of catering and a deep commitment to bringing the highest quality to every plate.
Self-taught and deeply inspired by a wide range of cuisines—from Latin and Asian to French and classic American—Chef Ryan describes himself as a "Contemporary American" chef, blending diverse influences with a focus on seasonal, farm-to-table ingredients. A lifelong original musician, he compares his approach to food to his love of music; each dish is like a song—crafted with layers and intention, never covered or copied.
Whether creating personalized menus for his customers or collaborating with local farmers and vendors, Chef Ryan believes in the power of fresh, local ingredients. His work is about more than just food; it’s about building a connection with the people he serves. Growing up in the city and yet spending much time on farms throughout his life has given him a unique perspective on food, one that values simplicity, quality, and the stories behind every meal.
Why Peja Vu?
Meet Peja, Chef Ryan’s dog, best friend, and the inspiration behind the name Peja Vu. Named after Ryan’s loyal companion, Peja, who bravely battled bone cancer, the business carries a deep, personal significance. Before Peja passed, Ryan made him a promise: to pursue his dream of owning a food truck as a tribute to their bond. Peja Vu symbolizes more than just a business—it’s a celebration of the love, loyalty, and lessons that Peja brought into Ryan’s life. The name itself is a playful nod to the idea of " déjà vu," capturing the feeling of revisiting something familiar yet new—just as each meal crafted by Chef Ryan brings a fresh, meaningful experience rooted in the love of food.
