The next employee spotlight is shining on our Ellie’s Table Chef, Ken. Ken is the mastermind behind taking our traditional classics and giving them a little twist - hello Bruschetta Toast! Coming up on his 4th year working for Ellie’s Table, Ken is always inspiring us with new culinary ideas and sometimes even works Jay’s Catering events! Every few weeks you can find Ken’s newest special written on our chalkboard at our cafe, like his most recent Loaded Potatoes and newly added as a permanent resident on our menu, the Chimichurri Tri Tip Sandwich. If you visit Ellie’s Table and order anything “from the kitchen,” Ken is the one who is cooking up your meal behind the scenes. Feel free to give your compliments to Chef Ken next time you’re in! Take a look below at some questions we’ve asked, and get to know Ken more.
Q: How did you get started in the culinary industry?
A: I started cooking at home at a young age and went to Le Cordon Bleu. My first culinary job was as a chocolatier making fine chocolates for a few years, then I continued on working at various restaurants.
Q: When did you first start cooking?
A: In my early 20s. I would go out and party, then of course, get hungry. I’d make really good food after and all my friends would want to meet-up for me to cook for them - even if they weren’t hanging out with me at the time. If they knew I was cooking, they’d come!
Q: Describe your cooking style in 3 words.
A: Simple, colorful, and flavorful.
Q: How did you get started at Ellie’s?
A: I saw that they were looking for someone to fill this position and applied online and got hired! My wife actually went to school with AJ (the COO of Jay’s and Ellie’s), but I didn’t find that out until after I got hired.
Q: If someone is coming to Ellie’s Table for the first time, what menu item would you recommend they try?
A: Our Toasts. Everyone loves them!
Q: What is your favorite item on our menu that you both make and eat?
A: Chilaquiles.
Q: What inspires your new recipes?
A: The people and their feedback. If someone likes toast, how can I transform that while still keeping it simple?
Q: What do you love about being a chef?
A: Food makes people happy. I especially love to see people happy when eating the food I’ve made.
Q: What would you want for your last supper?
A: Ribeye with mashed potatoes and mac and cheese.
