From washing dishes in a local restaurant during high school to leading a growing family of restaurants—including Bludorn, Bar Bludorn, Navy Blue, and the newly opened Perseid—Chef Aaron Bludorn’s journey has been driven by curiosity, discipline, and a love for the craft. It all started with a spark: “When I was washing dishes at a local restaurant in high school and I read Kitchen Confidential, I was enthralled and wanted to be in it!”

Today, that spark has turned into a flourishing culinary career grounded in intentionality—especially when it comes to plating. “I like to make sure that it looks clean, and once the guest bites in, it can quickly become messy and fun,” Chef Aaron shares. That balance of elegance and playful indulgence is what makes his food so memorable.

One ingredient that’s found a place in his menu repertoire is squash blossoms from The Chef’s Garden. “We stuff the squash blossoms with ricotta cheese, bread them, and fry them,” he says. “I love how the flavors of spring sing together.” On the plate, that dish comes alive with basil pesto, pepper jam, ricotta cheese, and a fennel and herb salad—a vibrant, seasonal composition that captures the soul of the season.

When asked about other favorite ingredients, Chef Aaron is quick to name mushrooms. “They are so versatile, seasonal, and give you a specific feeling based on the time of year and type of mushroom,” he explains. It’s that respect for seasonality—and the emotion an ingredient can evoke—that resonates so deeply with our own philosophy at The Chef’s Garden.

As for the advice that’s carried him through the years? “Put your head down, work for the best chefs, and never stop learning.” It’s a mindset he’s passed on to his team—and with great results. “Our first cook hire at Bludorn is becoming the executive chef after 5 years of rising through the ranks. That’s what it’s all about right there!”

Chef Aaron’s journey is proof that great food starts with passion and grows through dedication. We’re honored to be part of his kitchen story and can’t wait to see how it continues to unfold.