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The world of gastronomy is replete with stories of passion, innovation, and transformation. Among these inspiring tales stands the journey of Chef Shorne Benjamin, a name that has become synonymous with the vibrant flavors of New Age Caribbean cuisine.

Shorne Benjamin’s story begins in the lush landscapes of St. Lucia, where he was born and raised. His initial foray into the world of finance was marked by a move to New York to study at Mercy College in 1998. Here, he honed his skills and made his mark as a successful stockbroker. However, the 2008 financial crisis served as a catalyst for change, prompting Benjamin to reevaluate his career and reignite his passion for cooking—a skill lovingly nurtured by his grandmother back in St. Lucia.

With a renewed sense of purpose, Benjamin enrolled in culinary school, embarking on a journey that would see him work alongside renowned chefs like Jean George and James Jermyn. His culinary prowess shone through in various prestigious events, including the New York Food and Wine Festival, the Taste of Montréal festival, and the James Beard Dinner Series: Caribbean Sensation.

Chef Shorne’s signature style, New Age Caribbean®, is a testament to his innovative spirit. It’s a cuisine that respects traditional Caribbean flavors while infusing them with global influences. His dishes, like the Smoked Carrot Soup with Crab Meat and Hot Honey Lavender Chicken with Apricot Forbidden Rice, are a celebration of his heritage and his culinary journey.

Chef Shorne Benjamin Duck

Benjamin’s entrepreneurial ventures are as bold as his flavors. His Brooklyn-based restaurant, Fat Fowl, stands as a beacon of Caribbean cuisine, reimagined through his classically trained French culinary lens. Here, he continues to push boundaries, creating dishes that evoke emotions and respect the art of food.

The chef’s competitive nature and culinary skills have landed him on television screens, competing against Bobby Flay and showcasing his talents on Chopped. His victory at the Grace® Jamaican Jerk Festival Celebrity Chef Throw Down and appearances on NBC’s “6 In the Mix” and WGN-TV Chicago’s “Midday Fix” cooking segments have further cemented his status as a culinary ambassador.

Beyond the kitchen, Benjamin serves as a culinary ambassador, sharing the bright flavors of island cuisine with diverse palates. His experiences, from cooking with his grandmother to his celebrated restaurants in New York City, have shaped him into the chef he is today—a chef who puts his heart into every dish.

Chef Shorne Benjamin’s journey is more than a tale of career change; it’s a narrative of passion, resilience, and the power of heritage. His story inspires aspiring chefs and entrepreneurs alike, proving that with dedication and love for one’s craft, any dream is attainable. As he continues to innovate and inspire, the culinary world eagerly awaits the next chapter in the saga of Chef Shorne Benjamin, the master of New Age Caribbean cuisine.

Chef Shorne Benjamin’s story is a reminder that life is not necessarily linear, and that sometimes, the most unexpected paths lead to the most extraordinary destinations.

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