“Always do more than is required. Volunteer with your school, challenge yourself. Try out for your schools competition team, have a job in the industry even though it may seem overwhelming at first it will prepare you for what is in store for you after you’ve completed culinary school. Not only will working in the industry help you gain more experience, it will also help you learn to manage your time. This will be a huge help to begin to learn how to manage a healthy work/ life balance.”
– Executive Chef Lucas, Ocean Prime Chicago

What Advice Would You Give a Culinary Student?

“Spend at least one to two years working in a fast-paced kitchen environment before committing to a culinary education. In fact, starting as a dishwasher and working your way up is even better, as it allows you to understand all aspects of the kitchen before beginning your formal schooling in the culinary arts.”
– Sous Chef Nathan, Ocean Prime Denver Tech Center

“Always do more than is required. Volunteer with your school, challenge yourself. Try out for your schools competition team, have a job in the industry even though it may seem overwhelming at first it will prepare you for what is in store for you after you’ve completed culinary school. Not only will working in the industry help you gain more experience, it will also help you learn to manage your time. This will be a huge help to begin to learn how to manage a healthy work/ life balance.”
– Executive Chef Lucas, Ocean Prime Chicago

July is here, marking the celebration of Culinary Arts Month—a time dedicated to honoring the craft, creativity, and dedication our culinary professionals. At Ocean Prime, our chefs are the heart and soul of our kitchen, transforming seasonal ingredients into culinary masterpieces. This month, we sat down with some of our talented chefs to delve into their world and bring you a closer look at what drives their passion for the culinary arts.

What Originally Interested You in Culinary Arts?

“The unity and comradery felt when working the line with others. Driving and striving forward even through the toughest moments. Seeing the enjoyment on other’s faces while enjoying their time in our restaurants. Past or present and future” – Executive Chef Ryan, Ocean Prime Denver Tech Center

“When going out to eat when I was younger, I always was enamored by the flow and controlled chaos of restaurants. My high school had a culinary program that ignited my passion for culinary arts.” – Sous Chef Jake, Ocean Prime Dallas

Who Inspired You to Get into Culinary Arts?

” My father was always the “Chef” in our home. I just remember how excited he would be to see people enjoy what he made. I would never see him eat that much but the joy was in the process not the product.” – Executive Chef Jason, Ocean Prime Tampa

“I lived with my grandparents growing up. We would watch iron chef, Emeril Legasse, and Martha Stewart cooking shows. My grandmother would mimic the recipes and I would help her chop and ‘taste test’ everything.”
– Sous Chef Daniel, Ocean Prime Tampa

What Advice Would You Give a Culinary Student?

“Spend at least one to two years working in a fast-paced kitchen environment before committing to a culinary education. In fact, starting as a dishwasher and working your way up is even better, as it allows you to understand all aspects of the kitchen before beginning your formal schooling in the culinary arts.”
– Sous Chef Nathan, Ocean Prime Denver Tech Center

“Always do more than is required. Volunteer with your school, challenge yourself. Try out for your schools competition team, have a job in the industry even though it may seem overwhelming at first it will prepare you for what is in store for you after you’ve completed culinary school. Not only will working in the industry help you gain more experience, it will also help you learn to manage your time. This will be a huge help to begin to learn how to manage a healthy work/ life balance.”
– Executive Chef Lucas, Ocean Prime Chicago

What Has Been the Most Rewarding Moment of Your Career So Far?

“Putting together a special dessert for a couple celebrating their 80th wedding anniversary at the Guild House (Cameron Mitchell concept located in Columbus, OH.) The wife had terminal cancer and did not have much time left. They called me out into the dining room and tearful hugs and applause for making one of their last meals together such a special one.”
– Executive Chef Mike, Mitchell’s Ocean Club

What Chefs Have Inspired You Throughout Your Career and Why?

“Executive Chef Vladimir Trivunovic- Because he is passionate and hardworking and has an eye for every small detail. Regional Chef Nick Grosenbach- He is the man in the kitchen, always organized, passionate, and a great teacher.”
– Executive Sous Chef Branislav, Ocean Prime New York

“Sean Brock, Timothy Hollingsworth, and Anthony Bourdain have inspired me throughout my career. From the passion they have for their craft, changing the food scene in some way, or telling stories about how it is to live a Chef’s life in hospitality.”
– Executive Chef Nicholas, Ocean Prime Orlando

Join Us in Celebrating Culinary Arts Month

This Culinary Arts Month, we invite you to join us at Ocean Prime and experience the passion and creativity of our chefs. Every dish on our menu is a testament to their dedication and artistry. Whether you’re indulging in a familiar favorite or trying something new, we promise an unforgettable culinary journey. To our incredible chefs, thank you for your hard work, creativity, and commitment to excellence. Your contributions are the heart of Ocean Prime, making every meal a celebration of the culinary arts.