Chef Baker is a classically-trained and seasoned chef with over 15 years experience in the culinary world. He was born and raised outside Chicago, Illinois, spent his adolescent years in Orange County, and has made his home in San Diego, California.  Accordingly, he pulls inspiration from both his Midwest roots and his California base.

 

From an early age, Chef Baker’s passion for cooking was unmistakable. Working as a prep cook and catering through college in Santa Barbara, his affection for cooking grew further.  After receiving his Commis de Cuisine degree from the San Diego Culinary Institute, he went on to win a gold medal at the Midwest Culinary Saloon cooking competition in Cincinnati, Ohio on behalf of SDCI. 

 

Since then, Chef Baker has worked in top restaurants all over San Diego County. Starting his career with the famed Pamplemousse Grille under world-renowned Chef Jeffrey Strauss, Chef Baker’s experience continued to mature at restaurants such as Prepkitchen Del Mar under award-winning chef, Ryan Johnston of Whisknladle Hospitality and Gingham in La Mesa, under celebrity chef Brian Malarkey.  Chef Baker went out on his own as Executive Chef in 2012 and opened Mainstream Bar and Grill in Poway. In the years to follow, Chef Baker continued to grow and hone his craft at local favorites like Solace and the Moonlight Lounge in Encinitas,  The Red Door and Wellington Steak in Mission Hills, and 28 West at Morgan Run Club and Resort in Rancho Santa Fe.

 

Chef Baker’s natural talent, innovative techniques, and culinary diversity are what set him apart from others in his field. His comprehensive experience with flavor profiles in upscale restaurants all over San Diego magnifies his unique style. His expertise in the kitchen makes him the perfect chef to create your personal culinary experience.