Chef Darren Zesch

Chef Instructor, Hospitality & Restaurant Operations Management, Culinary Arts

chef instructor darren zesch
Location: Online Programs
Favorite Dish: Tacos

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.”

Dr. Seuss

About

Chef Darren has held the roles of Executive Chef and Sous Chef and is passionate about teaching the art of food and cooking. His professional experiences range from local country clubs, restaurants, and hospitals to being a Chef Instructor/Director of Education at an area culinary school.

His other passions are enjoying the outdoors with his family and friends.

Honors, Awards & Affiliations

  • ServSafe® Certified
  • Certified ServSafe® Proctor
  • Certified Executive Chef 2009-2019

Professional EXPERIENCE

  • Executive Chef - The Boulevard, St. Charles
  • Retail Manager - Mercy Hospital, St. Louis, MO
  • Executive Chef - St. Luke's Hospital
  • Director of Education - LeCole Culinare, St. Louis, MO
  • Sous Chef - Westwood Country Club

Dish Examples

Paella

Lakeside seafood fun!

seafood paella in large cast-iron skillet

Salsa

Salsa goes with tacos, and tacos go with everything!

various salsas guacamole in multi-color dishes with chips

Education

  • Associate of Applied Science Degree in Culinary Arts, St. Louis Community College at Forest Park, MO

Special Interests

Fishing (bass, striped bass, and crappie), bowhunting (whitetail deer), barbecuing, and charcuterie.

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