With more than 30 years of culinary and foodservice experience, Michael is a passionate chef and industry leader dedicated to helping food companies drive growth through sustainable flavor innovation. As Corporate Executive Chef at Custom Culinary®, he leads the development of globally inspired flavor systems that both delight customers and support a healthier planet.
Michael holds a Master’s in Food Business from the Culinary Institute of America and a Bachelor’s in Hospitality Management from Florida International University, along with multiple certifications from the American Culinary Federation and Worldchefs. His mission is to build strong partnerships across the foodservice industry, providing solutions that elevate dining experiences for guests worldwide.
YEARS IN FOODSERVICE INDUSTRY:
35+
WHEN DID YOU KNOW YOU WERE GOING TO BECOME A CHEF?
From my humble beginnings as a dishwasher, I knew the food business was for me. Becoming a chef was just part of my journey. Understanding a chef is what guides me through the food business.
WHAT'S THE BEST ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER RECEIVED?
To achieve your goals, understand and live Mise en Place.
MEMBERSHIPS:
World Association of Chefs Societies, American Culinary Federation, Alumni Association of The Culinary Institute of America
RECOGNITION:
Vice President of the OECA ACF Chapter, ACF Certified Executive Chef, WorldChefs Certified Executive Chef, ACF Certified Culinary Administrator, Culinary Arts Degree and Master’s Degree, Professional Studies in Food Business from The Culinary Institute of America
MEET YOUR CHEF
FAVORITE PRODUCTS
6552 - Custom Culinary®
True Foundations® Thai Style Vegetable Broth
“I just love the Thai Vegetable Broth for its brightness, aromatic, and balanced notes of red curry, lemongrass, coconut, and lime. It's a strong base for a variety of dishes or just by itself.”
6551 - Custom Culinary® Tonkotsu-Style Ramen Pork Broth
“Deep, porky flavor with a silky finish—this broth lets me build amazing ramen bowls fast, and it’s just as tasty in sauces and braises.”
6810 - Custom Culinary® True Foundations® Liquid Vegetable Stock Concentrate
“This vegetable stock concentrate is a kitchen essential—clean, vibrant, and packed with flavor. It lets me build soups, sauces, and braises with depth and consistency every time.”
LISTEN UP!
Podcasts
BITES + INSIGHTS
Check out my recipes and blog articles
CRAVING MORE? CHECK OUT THESE SIMILAR POSTS
Birria Grilled Cheese Dipper
Golden, buttery grilled sourdough stuffed with melty cheese and shredded beef birria, served with a hot cup of rich True Foundations® Beef Birria Broth for dipping.
Bourbon Date Hand Pies
Pastry pockets filled with sweet Medjool dates in a rich bourbon sauce with crème anglaise.
Featuring Custom Culinary® Gold Label Kentucky Bourbon Sauce and Crème Anglaise
Allergens: Eggs, Milk, Wheat, Soy
Breakfast Benny Burger
Give your customers their favorite Eggs Benedict dish, beyond the morning daypart! Serve a smash burger with American cheese, hashbrowns, Canadian bacon and a poached egg on a toasted brioche bun, topped off with Breakfast Secret Sauce made with Custom Culinary® Frozen, Ready-to-Use Hollandaise Sauce and everything bagel seasoning. A craveworthy option to wake up your breakfast or brunch menu!
Flatbread Pizza with Alfredo Sauce
Indulge in the delectable Custom Culinary® Gold Label Alfredo Sauce on a mouth-watering Flatbread Pizza topped with savory prosciutto ham, juicy vine-ripened tomatoes, and fresh arugula. Our unique take on the classic pizza offers a perfect combination of bold flavors and familiarity. Experience a burst of new flavors with a favorite dish that is sure to be loved by all.
Jalapeño Street Corn Dip
Perfect for: Tortilla chips, sliders, flatbreads, and taquitos.
Featuring Custom Culinary® Jalapeño Relish
MEET THE TEAM