We had the good fortune of connecting with Ernesse Attelus and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ernesse, what’s the most difficult decision you’ve ever had to make?
Quiting my job working at NorthWest Medical Center to pursue my catering business full-time.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I started my work career working in retail at Winn-Dixie as a bagger. After 8 1/2 years in retail I started my food & beverage career working for Jets Pizza & Papa John’s Pizza. While working for Walmart for 6 1/2 I decided to pursue a culinary Education at the Art Institute of Ft.lauderdale where I received my Associate’s degree in Culinary Arts in 2012. I resigned from walmart winter of 2010. I wanted to gain experience working in a commercial kitchen so I decided to work for the Boca Raton Resort & Club. Wanted to gain as much experience as possible so I can know the ins and outs of catering & large events. Shortly after graduating culinary school I started my own Catering Business Chef E’s Catering. While running my own catering business I received the opportunity to become a Private Chef. I worked under Chef Richard Ingram Brand for 2 years cooking for Mario Chalmers as his Private Chef.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would definitely take them to Pike Place Market. Would be able to see different fresh fish & Seafood Vendors. I would also take them to The Grill From Ipanema, the best Brazilian steak house in Seattle. We also have to check out the Space Needle. The Space needle has the most beautiful view.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Want to give Chef Richard Ingram a shout out for giving me the opportunity to become a Private chef and represent his brand while creating a brand for myself. Also Chef David Black for showing me the in’s and outs of a high volume Hospital kitchen. I was able to learn alot from Chef David Black. Also my Mother Jeannette Attelus with out her I wouldn’t be where I am in my career now if it wasn’t for her pushing me to pursue a Culinary Education at the Art’s institute of Ft.lauderdale. Now I am in a position where I am hiring Front & Back of the house staff and giving them the opportunity to showcase their skills & passion.
Instagram: @ChefErnesse
Linkedin: Chef Ernesse Attelus
Facebook: Chef E’s Catering