Hello

Chef Shawn discovered his passion for creating unique meals while growing up in Danbury, Connecticut where he would volunteer to make breakfast for his brothers so he wouldn’t have to go out and shovel the snow. As he learned new recipes, he always had the intense desire and excitement to get each item exactly right, a trait he still has today.

 

At 6’7” tall, he grew up dominating the basketball court through high school and during his time at Hartwick College. There he worked toward his degree in Business Management, however, he could not escape his desire for creating great meals and becoming a culinary professional. So, he enrolled in the Connecticut Culinary Institute where he officially began his journey to become a master chef. After graduating, he took a giant leap of faith and moved from the chill of Connecticut to the warm lights of Las Vegas, Nevada.

 

In Vegas, Chef Shawn learned to prepare unique cuisines from around the world and the art of culinary from the world’s greatest chefs. He began to establish his own style and brand while working in top restaurants like Charlie Palmers’ Steak House where he worked alongside Charlie Palmer. Additionally, he assisted executive chef Sam Haze opening his Vegas icon, renowned Tao in the Venetian Resort. Working with these high caliber chefs led to the ascension of him obtaining multiple executive chef positions in key establishments like The Mirage and Aria Hotels.

 

Chef Shawn's culinary journey is a vibrant tapestry woven through TV outlets like the Food Network's Chopped, the OWN network show Checked Inn, and ABC's Good Morning America, showcasing his innovative flair worldwide. He has been featured in publications such as Ebony magazine, Houston Chronicle, Houston Style Magazine, and Eater Houston, as these articles delve into the depth of Chef Shawn's culinary contributions. The spotlight also extends to his participation in events like the Honeyland Festival and the Beauté Noir Festival, reflecting his diverse and dynamic approach. Notably, Chef Shawn served as the executive chef and general manager for the iconic Kulture Restaurant's downtown Houston reopening, marking a pivotal moment in his career.

 

Beyond the culinary realm, Chef Shawn's philanthropic endeavors shine, with active support for Change for Kids and his integral role in their annual Super Chef's fundraising event. This comprehensive mashup encapsulates Chef Shawn's impact, seamlessly blending his TV appearances, media features, festival participation, restaurant reopening, and charitable contributions into a compelling narrative of culinary prowess and community engagement.