Celebrating Jason Shelley as Corporate Chef of Ocean Prime

Jason Shelley started his journey with Cameron Mitchell Restaurants (CMR) in 2004 as a middle station line cook at Mitchell’s Ocean Club. Now, 20 years later, we celebrate his successes and promotion to Ocean Prime Corporate Chef.

Shelley brings over two decades of deep expertise in the restaurant industry. He began his culinary career in the summer of 2001, after his first year at The Ohio State University, at a restaurant in Pittsburgh. That summer, he never looked back. When he moved back to Columbus, he got a job at a popular restaurant chain in Central Ohio.

After graduation, Shelley joined CMR and quickly climbed the ranks, being promoted to Sous Chef in 2006. Shelley played a pivotal role at that time, helping the concept evolve from a Pan-Asian eatery to the dynamic seafood and steakhouse destination guests enjoy today. Throughout his time with CMR, Shelley has led the kitchens of Ocean Prime coast-to-coast.

With him, Shelley brings a unique perspective to the dishes he acquired after traveling to Spain where he learned their cooking traditions and techniques. His passion for cooking is matched only by his love for family, highlighting that the two are tied together.

As he enters his new role, he reflects on his 25-year career in the culinary arts industry. Before becoming a professional chef, he grew up cooking in the kitchen with his grandparents who immigrated from Italy.

“They cooked everything from scratch. I learned so much from them and it has driven me my whole career,” he says.

He draws inspiration from around the world—trends that are happening, a dish he saw in a magazine or someone talking about a dish their family always cooked. Shelley says, “there are always places to get inspiration when you look for it.”

Lately, the Steak Tartare has been his favorite Ocean Prime dish. The Hamachi Crudo is his close second. He mentions how each dish highlights the protein in its raw form, allowing the true flavors to shine. If he orders a cocktail, it’s usually a Hot and Dirty Martini. Outside of his time in the kitchen, Shelley spends it with his wife, son and daughter.

We are excited to see Jason Shelley excel in his new role as he brings an experienced, yet fresh perspective on the industry. Here’s to Chef Shelley’s next chapter as Ocean Prime Corporate Chef.