Chef of the Month is sponsored by Ford Hotel Supply.
Position: Co-owner
Married? Yes
Kids? No
Where are you originally from? Chicago
Where did you go to school? University of Houston
How did you get to where you are? I have a background in the restaurant/hospitality industry, working various positions in cities like Chicago, Houston, Miami, and Seattle. My dream has always been to open up my own restaurant. I learned a lot about seafood and Asian fusion food in my past positions so I wanted to build something and apply my creativity and knowledge.
New things going on in your restaurant: We always have rotating menu specials depending on the season. The specials that we have had recently are Japanese curry soup and gyoza wings. Watch our Instagram and Facebook for new and limited specials.
Favorite menu item: Teriyaki pork wings
Three cool facts:
• I’m a big sports and history buff.
• I got to be in my friend’s traditional Indian wedding in Mumbai. It was one of the best experiences ever.
• I got to meet a handful of celebrities in my past jobs – the most memorable one is Dennis Rodman.
What is your favorite piece of equipment or kitchen item? Tongs! They can grab anything!
Sando Shack, 3173 Morgan Ford Road, St. Louis, instagram.com/sandoshackstl
Hello Poke, 3730 Foundry Way, St. Louis, cityfoundrystl.com/directory/hello-poke
This article appears in March 2023.