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.
Recent Posts
Appetizers and Tapas Make the Meal
As a chef, I've always believed appetizers are the unsung heroes of dining. These small but mighty plates set the stage for any meal, offering a chance to impress, indulge, and experiment, all before ...
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 ...
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, ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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 ...
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. ...
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 ...
