James Desisto was lured into the culinary world with his passion for this industry and for food was recognized at an early age. James went on to study culinary arts and nutrition at Johnson and Wales University in Miami Florida, where he learned to develop his own unique style and flair. He started his career at exclusive restaurants such as Uva 69 a Barcelonan bistro, Emerils of South Beach, and The Highlawn Pavilion in West Orange NJ. Over the years James worked under influential leaders of the culinary world such as Emeril Lagasse, Tyler Florence, and Mitchell Altholz who helped him shape his style and depth of knowledge.

 

            He worked personally with Emeril at the Food and Wine festival in Miami, also landing a spot on a television series with Tyler Florence called (Shaq’s Big Challenge) the effort was to help six severely obese middle school aged children to lose weight and gain a healthy lifestyle. James’s culinary philosophy and passion reflects the growing trend towards a healthier and down to earth life style. His preference is to allow the natural flavor of food to express themselves. He was responsible for taking The Manhattan Juice Bar in Montclair to a new level of success with his passion for food, fresh raw juice, and gluten free-vegan energy balls. He also developed the first ever Quinoa sauté station at the juice bar, it is now the most popular item on the menu.

            In addition James is a hard working down to earth family man, he is married to his beautiful wife Aylin Desisto since February 18th 2013. He hopes the hard work and efforts will show in his restaurant.