Some chefs seem destined for the kitchen from an early age, while others find their way through unexpected experiences. For Chef Justin Donaldson, the path to the culinary world wasn’t always clear, but looking back, he can see how life’s moments shaped his journey.
A Culinary Journey Rooted in Experience Growing up in a hardworking household, Justin was raised with the understanding that nothing is given—it’s earned. His parents, shaped by their upbringing in rural Illinois, instilled in him the values of discipline and perseverance.
As a kid in the ‘80s, dinner often meant staples like Hamburger Helper, but his curiosity about food stretched far beyond the dinner table. He recalls watching Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous with his parents, wondering about caviar and truffles—what they were, who ate them, and what they tasted like.
His real culinary awakening came in his early teenage years when he had the opportunity to live in Singapore. Immersed in a world of exotic aromas, spices, fruits, and flavors, Justin developed an appreciation for diverse culinary traditions—elements that still influence his approach to food today. From bussing tables and washing dishes to stepping into the kitchen, he never looked back.
For Chef Justin, plating a dish is more than just aesthetics—it’s an intentional act of storytelling. “There is a lot of thought, reason, and purpose behind each plated dish,” he explains. His philosophy centers on simplicity and balance, allowing a few key ingredients to shine as the focal point. The goal is always to enhance the dining experience, creating a visual and sensory delight that speaks for itself.
Some of Chef Justin’s favorite ingredients to work with include hibiscus, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves. Each one offers a distinctive aroma and delicate floral essence that requires precision and care to fully capture. These ingredients bring a unique vibrancy to his dishes, a nod to his time in Singapore and his passion for blending flavors from around the world.
Over the years, Justin has received many pieces of advice from mentors and fellow chefs, but one quote has always resonated deeply: “Success is measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome while trying to succeed.” This philosophy fuels his drive, reminding him that true achievement comes from perseverance and resilience.
When asked what excites him most about his career, Justin’s answer is simple: sharing the language of food. “Food is something we all have in common,” he reflects. “When we share it, it’s an expression of love. Perhaps we would live in a more peaceful world if we all just took the time to understand the stories behind what we eat and listen to the language it speaks.”
Chef Justin Donaldson’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of food. From humble beginnings to a deep appreciation for global flavors, his culinary path is one of passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to telling stories through every plate he serves.