The Chopping Block Cooking & Wine Blog

Fonze

Alphonse (aka Fonze) grew up in northeast Pennsylvania then moved to Providence, RI where he completed a bachelor's degree in Culinary Nutrition with a focus in R&D. While in school, he worked at a farm to table American bistro as well as a variety of other culinary establishments (yacht clubs, hotels, stadiums, catering, etc.). He moved to Chicago to intern at a marketing culinary agency. During the pandemic, he shifted toward personal culinary consulting while also opening two restaurants in Chicago as Executive Chef. He also traveled to Amman Jordan to aid a restaurant chain in redeveloping their menu specials and working toward opening ghost kitchens. He now works as a Chef Instructor at The Chopping Block and as a R&D chef for large corporations. In his free time, he is usually reading up on new cooking techniques, cooking meals with friends, exploring alternative fields of science, enjoying the outdoors, or binging a TV show.

The Unifying Power of Food: How Sharing a Meal Brings Us Together

There’s a story I often tell when people ask me why I became a chef. It wasn’t just about my love for food, though that certainly played a part. It was about the way food made me feel connected to ...

Who’s Stronger, You or The Bear?

As a chef who's spent countless hours in restaurant kitchens, when I first heard about The Bear, I was intrigued. A TV show about the inner workings of a Chicago-based restaurant? Okay, that hits a ...

The Joy of Visiting Farmers Markets: A Chef's Perspective

As a chef, my heart beats faster at the mere thought of visiting a farmers' market. There's something truly magical about wandering through stalls brimming with fresh, vibrant produce, artisan goods, ...

Discover the Timeless Delight of Flan

Flan, a luscious and creamy dessert, has been a beloved treat for centuries. Its rich history, unique texture, and delightful flavor make it a standout on any dessert menu. Join me on a journey ...

The Art of Plating

Cooking is not just about flavors and techniques; it's also about presentation. The art of plating is a crucial skill that can elevate your home cooking from ordinary to extraordinary. Just like a ...

The Unsung Hero of the Kitchen: Staff Meal

As a chef, my life revolves around food. From the crack of dawn to the dead of night, I’m immersed in a world of flavors, techniques, and relentless passion for culinary artistry. But amidst the ...

Exploring the Art of Dealer's Choice Cocktails

As a seasoned chef and bartender, I've had the pleasure of crafting and enjoying a myriad of cocktails, each with its own unique story and flavor profile. One of the most exciting aspects of mixology ...

Hot Dogs in the World of Gastropub Cuisine

As a chef, I often find myself contemplating the art of transforming ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences. One such dish that has captured my imagination is the humble hot dog. ...

Unleashing the Flavorful World of Dirty Sodas

As a research chef, I've always been fascinated by the evolution of culinary trends, especially when it comes to beverages. One particular trend that has been making waves recently is the rise of ...

A Chef's Love Letter to Sushi

In the vast culinary landscape of Chicago, where every corner boasts a unique flavor, my gastronomic journey took an unexpected turn over the last year. As a chef, my taste buds have traversed the ...

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Fonze

Recent Posts

The Unifying Power of Food: How Sharing a Meal Brings Us Together

Who’s Stronger, You or The Bear?

The Joy of Visiting Farmers Markets: A Chef's Perspective

Discover the Timeless Delight of Flan

The Art of Plating

The Unsung Hero of the Kitchen: Staff Meal

Exploring the Art of Dealer's Choice Cocktails

Hot Dogs in the World of Gastropub Cuisine

Unleashing the Flavorful World of Dirty Sodas

A Chef's Love Letter to Sushi

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