James Kent (chef) facts for kids
| Born | Jamal James Kent May 2, 1979 Lower Manhattan, New York City, U.S. |
|---|---|
| Died | June 15, 2024 (aged 45) New York, U.S. |
| Education | Le Cordon Bleu, London, Paris Johnson & Wales University |
| Spouse | Kelly Kent |
|
Current restaurant(s)
Saga
 Crown Shy  |
|
Jamal James Kent (born May 2, 1979 – died June 15, 2024) was a talented American chef. He was known for his amazing cooking skills and for winning big competitions. In 2010, he won the Bocuse d'Or USA, which is a very important cooking contest. The next year, he represented the U.S. in the world finals in France, where he placed tenth.
Contents
Chef James Kent's Journey
Starting in the Kitchen
James Kent began his cooking journey very early. When he was just 15, he started as a summer helper at a famous restaurant called Bouley. After finishing school, he worked in many well-known New York restaurants. These included places like Babbo, Jean-Georges, and Gordon Ramsay.
Rising at Eleven Madison Park
In 2007, James Kent joined Eleven Madison Park, a very famous restaurant. He started as a regular cook but quickly became a sous chef, which is like a head assistant. By 2010, he was the chef de cuisine, meaning he was in charge of the kitchen. During his time there, the restaurant earned three Michelin stars. It also received four stars from the New York Times and was named one of the World's 50 Best Restaurants.
Leading the NoMad Kitchen
In 2013, Chef Kent became the executive chef at The NoMad restaurant. Later that same year, The NoMad also earned its first Michelin star. He left in 2017 to start his own restaurants.
Opening Crown Shy and Saga
James Kent opened two of his own restaurants, Crown Shy and Saga. Both are located in a tall building at 70 Pine Street in New York City. As of 2023, Crown Shy has one star from the Michelin Guide. His other restaurant, Saga, has two Michelin stars. He was also a partner and executive chef at Overstory, a bar located just above Saga.
Awards and Special Dishes
James Kent won the Bocuse d'Or USA contest in 2010. This competition was held at the Culinary Institute of America. For the fish dish, he made Scottish salmon with leeks and Osetra caviar. He also prepared Alaskan king crab and pickled beets. For the meat dish, he served spring lamb with bacon and special herbs. He also made zucchini with cheese and mint, and a tomato tart.
About James Kent's Life
James Kent passed away in New York on June 15, 2024, at the age of 45. He is survived by his wife, Kelly, and their two children, Gavin and Avery.
