About Your Chef...

 

Dashon Barnes, Sr., Personal/Executive Chef for LaShon’s Catering Specialists, has been cooking professionally since 1996.  Born in Brooklyn, New York, Chef Barnes was given many opportunities to experience wonderful food from different cultures, providing him with a unique palate and surmounted style and skill.  Like many other chefs of the present day, Chef Barnes experienced the exceedingly pleasing taste of various cultures and the varying perspective of different cooking styles.  These experiences helped shape Chef Barnes' love for food. 

 

Many people recognized Chef Barnes' talents early on.  Many of his associates would ask him to ‘cater’ their family gatherings, graduation parties, and small weddings.  He later realized his love for food offered more than he bargained for…Chef Barnes decided to go to school to learn the variances of food culture and the fundamentals of cooking combined.  He entered the International Culinary Academy in 1997.  He earned a degree in Culinary Arts and Specialized Technology in 1999, specializing in food sanitation, quality service, and presentation.

 

After receiving his degree, Chef Barnes went on to work in various restaurants in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area, acquiring most of his hands-on experience at the Grand Concourse Restaurant.  While working at the Grand Concourse Restaurant, Chef Barnes was certain that he wanted to go into business for himself.

 

In 2002, Chef Barnes,  decided to come up with a family own catering company, named after his daughter, LaShon — LaShon’s Catering Specialists.  In 2002, Chef Barnes catered his first wedding, of 80 guests, as a company, with a staff of 2 employees.  Since then, Chef Barnes, and his staff of now more than 20 employees, have gone on to cater events from 2 guests to more than 400 guests, including nationally renowned celebrities.

 

Chef Barnes continues to amaze his clientele, receiving most of his business through word-of-mouth.  He believes that quality service comes from a great chef, with a professional staff, appealing presentation, and impeccable food.

 

Chef Barnes is among the most talented in the industry. It would be a pleasure to put his extensive experience to work for you.

 

Chef Barnes is ServSafe Certified through Sysco's Food Safety Training program.