Meet Joseph Andrade | Executive chef

We had the good fortune of connecting with Joseph Andrade and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Joseph, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
In the Culinary world most of chefs want to be very successful, but sometimes the blind eye doesn’t see what we go thru . Hours upon hours of cooking, thinking, creating and execution. When we leave from work we constantly are thinking how can I do it better which means our sleep time is very important.

Nowadays my work schedule has changed and I have drastically changed. I have more time to rest and I’m not under huge pressure to get projects done in a second. I use my 2 days to catch up in months different menus, taste profiles so when the time comes to make a menu I’m not stressed for time.

So Balance for me is very important just like creating a dish without it could be very in cohesive or incomplete.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Every chef story begins in hardship . Where they grew up, where they went to school, who was there mentor who inspired them.

I had none of that my family main ingredients was just salt , pepper, mushrooms & onions. Not saying that’s a bad thing, but I wanted more. After graduating college in culinary arts I bounced about every little corner possible. From New York, Las Vegas , Colorado, then Miami I’ve learned so much in that time that I got cocky which isn’t a good trait to have when you start making those grand connections when your exposing yourself.

The Industry gets tougher along the way cause you want your food to be consistent as ever. Sometimes those challenges are met finding the right ride or die crew .

The lessons I’ve learned is to be meek, silent, listen & learn . I’d never get to where I’m at cause of it. My mentor Chef Traci McIlwain has set me to the path on becoming a great chef even though at times we clash on new culinary flavor profiles and my love of Rosemary.

I want the world know that I’m not better than the other chefs we just tend to do what we believe in our passion our goals to be better , and If someone out there just likes our food a little better. No hate a handshake here , congratulations there , I’ll be by to taste it later. Then we goto work and make it even more better the next day , but for me I really want a Michelin or a James beard award that will be icing on the cake.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
In Stuart there’s a spot called the District led by chef Taylor mohlmann from day 1 loved the Cuisine and his passion in our industry. Favorite dish raw fish preparation can be any or bone marrow love it all.

Then we drive I think 90 miles south to Miami.

The Hyde pool Party at the SLS where civilians, celebrities (me lol) gets to mingle have a drink have conversations and enjoy the pool on a super hot day.

For Ice cream Aubi & Ramsa 21+ age limit ice cream is silky smooth and with only 4.9% alcohol you can’t go wrong Chocolate Azteca with Mezcal is where I go.

1800-lucky in Wynwood best ramen I ever had hands down.

The Best Brewery In Miami , hands down to the Abbey brewing company Raymond Rigazio is a true brewmaster his delicious stout , quad, and I.P.A are my favorite
(Still waiting for a Brother Joes type lager)

Food wise either , Yardbird, Red steakhouse, Lucali, sanguich or pub belly are my goto

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
So far I met my wonder full owners Jen & Luis Reyneri. Who own the restaurant I work in called the Grove Cucina & Wine. They are both pioneers in this Industry as they are both certified advanced sommeliers . They’re restaurant has achieved awards from wine spectator.

They have been in the playoffs for a little bit with my help I can bring this mom & pop shop to the Championship. If you want to learn more don’t hesitate and visit the website thegrovehobesound.com

Website: Thegrovehobesound.com

Instagram: ChefJosephAndrade

Twitter: ChefJosephandra

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@chefjosephandradechefsdayo6139

Image Credits
First 5 pictures all credit to The grove cucina & wine of Hobe Sound , Florida