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Joshua Sharkey
Founder / CEO at meez (We're Hiring!)
Professional Background
Joshua Sharkey is a highly accomplished culinary professional with a diverse background in the restaurant industry. With a passion for food and a commitment to innovation, Joshua has made a significant mark in the culinary world. He is the founder of meez, an exciting platform that connects chefs with the community, showcasing his dedication to enhancing the culinary experience.
Before founding meez, Joshua held the prestigious position of Chief Operating Officer at Aurify Brands, where he oversaw the operations of multiple successful restaurant concepts. His experience as a leader in the fast-paced culinary environment has equipped him with a wealth of knowledge and insights into restaurant management and operations. Previously, Joshua also made his mark as the founder and chef at Bark Hot Dogs, where his creative approach to casual dining delighted patrons and established a loyal customer base.
His career in the culinary arts began after he earned an Associate's degree in Culinary Arts from Johnson & Wales University, one of the foremost culinary institutions. This educational foundation provided him with the skills necessary to excel in various roles, from line cook to chef de partie and later sous chef. His journey includes working at highly respected restaurants such as Cafe Gray, Bouley, and Tabla, where he honed his craft under the guidance of culinary leaders and contributed to their kitchen operations.
Through years of hard work and dedication, Joshua has built a reputation for his exceptional culinary expertise and entrepreneurial spirit. His journey from a line cook to a successful chef and business owner demonstrates his tenacity and passion for the culinary arts.
Education and Achievements
Joshua Sharkey embarked on his culinary journey by pursuing an Associate's degree in Culinary Arts from Johnson & Wales University, a premier institution renowned for nurturing culinary talent. This solid educational foundation allowed him to gain essential skills in cooking techniques, kitchen management, and menu development, setting the stage for his future successes in the industry.
At Johnson & Wales, Joshua laid the groundwork for his culinary philosophy, which emphasizes creativity, quality ingredients, and a strong connection to community and dining experiences. His education was supplemented by invaluable hands-on experience throughout his career in various prestigious kitchens.
Among his many accomplishments, Joshua's tenure as Chef at Cafe Gray and his role as Sous Chef at Bouley stands out, as he had the opportunity to work with some of the best chefs in the industry, gaining insights into the intricacies of high-end dining. Furthermore, his time as a Line Cook at Oceana and Chef De Partie at Tabla allowed him to learn the art of flavors and presentation in a fast-paced environment, further enhancing his culinary skills.
With the founding of meez, Joshua has not only created a platform that benefits chefs but fosters a sense of community around food. His dedication to culinary innovation and improving the dining experience reflects his deep commitment to the industry.
Achievements
- Founder of Meez: As the visionary behind meez, Joshua has successfully developed a platform that acts as a resource for chefs and food lovers alike, enhancing the connection between culinary professionals and the community.
- Chief Operating Officer at Aurify Brands: During his time at Aurify Brands, Joshua played a vital role in streamlining operations across multiple restaurants, demonstrating his ability to lead and manage in a challenging industry.
- Role as a Chef at Notable Restaurants: Joshua Sharkey's experience spans various renowned establishments, including Cafe Gray, Bouley, and Tabla, where he contributed to creating memorable dining experiences and immersive culinary offerings.
- Entrepreneurial Spirit: As the founder of Bark Hot Dogs, he has successfully combined casual dining with gourmet offerings, showcasing his ability to innovate and capture the market's attention.
- Apprenticeship at Salumeria Mario Batali: Early in his career, Joshua gained experience in an esteemed kitchen, where he learned essential culinary techniques and the importance of high-quality ingredients.
In summary, Joshua Sharkey's journey in the culinary arts is marked by a unique blend of education, dedicated work experience, and innovative thinking. His commitment to elevating culinary experiences through his platform meez and various successful roles in the restaurant industry solidify his status as a rising star in the culinary world.
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