Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Talon Thomas

Newark

Summary

Experienced and innovative Chef with 10+ years in the culinary industry, including ownership of a high-end restaurant and private chef roles for celebrity athletes. I am skilled in menu development, kitchen leadership, and creating performance-focused meals. Seeking to bring culinary excellence and creativity to a dynamic team or exclusive private setting.

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Private Chef

Serenity Elevated Palette Private Chef & Catering LLC
01.2017 - Current
  • Developed and executed customized meal plans tailored to individual performance, recovery, and personal taste preferences. Collaborated closely with nutritionists and athletic trainers to ensure meals aligned with season-specific training and recovery goals. Prepared daily meals and snacks using high-quality, organic ingredients, while managing all aspects of grocery shopping, pantry organization, and kitchen sanitation. Provided meal prep support for travel, game days, and off-season training, ensuring consistent nutrition and convenience for clients.
  • 2017 – 2021 Client: Odell Beckham Jr./New York Giants
  • 2023 – Client: Blake Snell/LA Dodgers
  • 2023 – Sterling Shepard & Chanel Iman
  • 2024 – Kwon Alexander/New York Jets
  • 2025 – Duke Riley/Miami Dolphins

Executive Chef

Redzz Grill
06.2014 - Current
  • Responsible for recruiting, managing, and training kitchen staff to ensure a well-organized and efficient team. Designed and planned menus featuring seasonal and locally sourced ingredients to enhance quality and sustainability. Managed food inventory and oversaw supply ordering to maintain smooth kitchen operations. Consistently monitored food quality and presentation to uphold high culinary standards. Developed and managed kitchen budgets to support cost-effective and profitable operations.

Restaurant Owner/Chef

Serenity's Elevated Palette Restaurant
11.2021 - 09.2023
  • Managed all aspects of daily restaurant operations, including staff hiring, training, scheduling, supervision, and performance evaluations. Served as both a hands-on chef and in-house support, consistently delivering exceptional customer service. Designed creative, cost-effective menus tailored to customer preferences and market trends. Developed prep lists, standardized recipes, and kitchen timelines to ensure efficiency and consistency. Maintained a clean and sanitary kitchen environment in full compliance with health regulations. Oversaw budgeting for supplies and ingredients, effectively controlling costs without sacrificing quality. Additionally private chef and catering services provided to meet diverse client needs.

Education

Culinary Arts program, Commercial Cooking

Star Career Academy
01.2014

High School Diploma -

Weequahic High School
01.2003

Skills

  • Budget management
  • Food & safety preparation
  • High volume food service
  • Menu building
  • Staff training & coaching
  • Recruiting & hiring talent
  • Fine dining & catering
  • Recipe preparation
  • Health regulations
  • Solid written & verbal communicator
  • Client relationship building
  • Nutritional advice

Certification

  • ServSafe Food Safety Management
  • Food Handler

Timeline

Restaurant Owner/Chef

Serenity's Elevated Palette Restaurant
11.2021 - 09.2023

Private Chef

Serenity Elevated Palette Private Chef & Catering LLC
01.2017 - Current

Executive Chef

Redzz Grill
06.2014 - Current

Culinary Arts program, Commercial Cooking

Star Career Academy

High School Diploma -

Weequahic High School