We're bringing you a show with a lot of heart! Chefs Piperno, Ward, and Chu share their ideals about the work-life balance of their employees, their devotion to create a memorable experience, and the passion to go above and beyond for every meal they create. You will find yourself enamored by their stories, and hungry to indulge in their culinary genius.
0:26~Our first guest, Chef-Owner Dominic Piperno, began his culinary journey as a youth. Guided at a young age by his Grandparents who immigrated to the USA from Germany & Italy, Chef Piperno gained a lifetime of knowledge on how to cook with zero food-waste, using the freshest ingredients, and balancing his passion as a chef with personal time. With those seeds planted, it is no wonder that he circled back to those habits ingrained in him from his upbringing. This is why he chose to switch from an a la carte menu at Hearthside in Collingswood to the more efficient tasting menu. You can visit Hearthside to experience an elevated menu, curated with the best ingredients that Chef Piperno obtained, for an exquisite dinner for two via making a reservation.
17:16~Commercial Break
17:40~We next spoke with Joey Ward, whose passion to bring fine dining to Georgia stems from years of experience beginning as a young man. At 16 years old, he began his career while working at a local country club. After earning an AA Degree at the Culinary Institute of America in 2005, he continued his education while working as the Sous Chef at Woodfire Grill in Atlanta under Season 6's Top Chef's Kevin Gillespie, and later as Gillespie's Executive Chef inside Gunshow. Armed with the knowledge, skills, and sophistication to create a successful Chef's Tasting experience, Ward opened the joint ventures, Southern Belle and Georgia Boy.
37:35~Commercial Break
37:49~To say that our last guest, Chef Steve Chu, is humble, warm-hearted, and hard-working would be an understatement: His desire to ensure you enjoy the foods he creates seemed to outweigh any proclivity to brag about himself or the impressive achievements he has founded. In fact, his energy is practically palpable; Chu's passion for food and ensuring you have a positive experience was at the forefront of what he expressed. I only hope that you can visit one of his locations and taste for yourselves the passion he expresses through his culinary creations.