Today we’d like to introduce you to Jasa Joseph.
Hi Jasa, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Georgia native Jasa Joseph has had more culinary experience than many industry professionals that are twice her age. Joseph grew up surrounded by food in her hometown of Dalton, Georgia where her family ran and operated numerous local restaurants. At the ripe age of 18, the southern belle ventured to New York City in pursuit of her passion to become a chef and attended The French Culinary Institute in Manhattan.
After graduation, Joseph took a position at The Surf Lodge outside the city, in Montauk, New York. It was here that she met her mentor, Sam Talbot. Widely known for his role on the 2nd Season of “Top Chef”, Talbot took Joseph under his wing in the midst of his rising celebrity status as one of New York City’s most accomplished and buzz-worthy chefs. As an Executive Sous Chef, Jasa helped head up the food program at the venue, a hip nautical meets bohemian restaurant that was renowned in the area for its organic vibe and superior use of fresh local ingredient.
In addition to her prominent role at the Surf Lodge, Joseph toured the country with Talbot as his “right-hand chef” at premier events including press dinners and celebrity galas.. Jasa found herself growing restless in the Big Apple and in 2012 decided to move to San Diego in search of a new challenge.
Jasa was a part of the culinary duo leading the food program at the OB/Point Loma casual eatery, Sessions Public, where she put her impressive portfolio to good use with the restaurant’s elevated gastrofare.
Joseph later took a position at Cafe 21 in San Diego. Here she helped innovate new ideas to their brunch menu. Splitting her time between their two locations, one in Gaslamp and the other in University Heights. Cafe 21 mentality is all organic farm to table food.
Joseph decided it was time to return home to Georgia in 2014. Chef Joseph took a position as Executive Chef at Walnut Hill Farm. A family owned and operated event venue. Chef Joseph is now living out her dream of owning a food truck. She loves exploring new festivals and working with clients for all their private event needs. She ventured out on her own in 2016 to start her own catering and private chef company. In 2023, Chef Jasa was able to live out her dream and get her very first food truck.
When she’s not in the kitchen, the outdoorsy chef can be found hanging out with her family, exploring new cities, good restaurant and seeking out farmers markets.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s not been an easy road but the passion and love I have for cooking makes it all worth it.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am most proud of my ability to adapt to all situations in the kitchen. I am thankful I can cook all cuisines and am not scared to try new dishes even if I’ve never actually done them before.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Taking risk is what this business is all about. I believe I was put on this earth to share the love I have for cooking and teach people cooking is fun and delicious. I have never been scared to run into the unknown.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Chefjasa.net
- Instagram: Milliesbychefjasa
- Other: https://Milliesbychefjasa.com
