Today we’d like to introduce you to Steven McIntyre.
Hi Steven, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Ever since I was young, I was into cooking. My great-grandma got me into cooking food. Growing up, I was fascinated with the food network. As I grew up my love for food grew and I knew I wanted to be a chef. As time went on, my passion continued to grow, but I didn’t take the craft seriously in my senior year of high school. I decided to go down a different path altogether. I went to a college with a new major and things just didn’t work out. I had to return home and that’s where the spark came back. I had got a job filling waters at a fine dining restaurant. Seeing people in chef coats took my drive to a whole new level. Once I worked enough to have money to move away from home, I did.
While I was away, I decided to take my skills to the next level and enrolled in culinary school. In school, I worked my tail off, at one-point juggling three jobs, school full time, and turbulent personal life. I eventually graduated top of my class. I wanted more, so I continued my education at Johnson and Wales University, where I received my bachelor’s in culinary arts. Today, I use my knowledge to inspire other young, black chefs to become the face of the industry. Giving them the tools so many others have not had before. Thus, creating a whole new generation of great chefs.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it hasn’t. I have had many bumps along the way. I was super poor at one time. My mental state was down in the deepest I have ever experience. I wanted to just go away and not deal with anything or anyone. However, I had to remember that everything happens for a reason and God never gives us more than we can bear.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I consider myself a hospitality professional. I work in all aspects of the job, and I love to teach others about it. I currently serve as a private chef to several clients. As far as what I’m known for, I know for my interesting take on southern cuisine. I teach people how to love the food of the area and not to feel any shame for it.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
The drive and determination to succeed. I worked many long and hard shifts. I went above and beyond what was called of me. Because of that, I was able to graduate on time and inspire both my classmates and my coworkers.
Contact Info:
- Email: chefsmcintyre@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefstevenmcintyre/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chefstevenmcintyre
Image Credits:
Christopher Wallace
Steven McIntyre
Laura Anderson
