Chef
Callender
Meet Chef Christopher Callender, a Jamaican-American Culinary & Mixology Specialist, Author, and Restaurant Operations Consultant who has truly made his mark on the culinary scene of New York City. With roots in Oyster Bay, Long Island, and a childhood spent in Royal Palm Beach, Florida, Callender's journey is a vibrant tapestry woven with dreams and unexpected turns.
Initially aspiring to be a fashion designer, Callender's passion for creativity led him to study Fashion Design & Marketing in Atlanta, Georgia. However, a pivotal moment came when he left his senior year to work alongside iconic designer Betsey Johnson in New York City. To support his ambitions, he took a job as a waiter in a Sicilian restaurant, where he unexpectedly discovered the artistry of quality food, wine, and spirits. His potential didn't go unnoticed; Chef Melissa Mueller and Tarek Daka became his mentors, guiding him through the intricate world of Sicilian cuisine. Within just three months, Callender's dedication shone through, earning him a promotion to floor manager and head bartender, igniting a passion that would soon eclipse his fashion dreams.
As he climbed the ranks in the restaurant industry, Callender embraced every opportunity that came his way. His big break arrived when Chef Gaurav Anand invited him to be the General Manager at a modern Indian restaurant. This role opened the door to the world of mixology and ultimately led him to become the Director of Operations for Anand's catering company. Traveling the globe, Callender learned the art of food presentation, merging his fashion background with culinary creativity. For him, the plate became a canvas, and he developed a profound love for crafting beautifully presented high-quality dishes.
After years of relentless hustle, Callender sought a moment of reflection and turned to real estate, leveraging his long-held license to assist friends in finding homes and commercial spaces. Yet, his heart remained firmly planted in the culinary world. During a sabbatical, he immersed himself in fitness, experimenting with healthier food and cocktail recipes, which laid the foundation for his brand, Cheat Healthier. This venture quickly gained traction on social media, resonating with food enthusiasts and peers alike. A pivotal phone conversation with his mother ignited his vision, as she inspired him to embrace his identity as a chef.
Drawing from his Jamaican heritage, Callender conceived a groundbreaking culinary style he dubbed "New Caribbean," a fusion of diverse cultural influences infused with traditional Jamaican flavors. What began as a six-month hiatus blossomed into nearly two years of exploration and creativity during the pandemic. His commitment to showcasing Jamaican roots through food led him to consult and serve as Executive Chef for Crown Heights Cafe in Brooklyn, where he elevated the menu with innovative dishes like Ackee Toast, Oxtail Tacos, and Rose Latte.
Chef Callender's exceptional talents garnered widespread recognition, culminating in his position as Executive Chef at Charm Bar & Restaurant, where he crafted a menu that celebrated "New Caribbean" cuisine. His culinary artistry has been featured in prestigious publications and shows, including Forbes, Food Network's Guy's Grocery Games, Pix11 News, Cheddar News, and Buzzfeed. His acclaimed cookbook, Liquid Gold Oxtail & Cocktails, published under Cheat Healthier, pays tribute to his beloved grandmother—his inspiration in the kitchen. This heartfelt collection showcases his favorite dish for her while unveiling innovative recipes centered around oxtail and cocktails.
With over 15 years in the restaurant industry, Callender has transitioned into a role as a restaurant operations consultant with US Foods, a leading food service company recognized by Forbes in 2023. Through his expertise, he helps restaurateurs and chefs analyze and streamline their operations, all rooted in his enduring love for food and community.
Chef Christopher Callender's story is not just one of resilience and passion; it is a celebration of the transformative power of food, culture, and community. As he continues to inspire with his culinary creations, his journey reminds us that the path to discovering one's true calling can be beautifully unpredictable.