:: Photo by Richard A. Evans :::
The first time I interviewed Chef Torey Shelton was in August 2021, and I still haven’t stopped thinking about the meal he prepared that day: lobster curry with mixed vegetables and jasmine rice. The sweetness and brininess of the lobster played perfectly against the bold spice of the curry sauce. Each bite felt like an invitation to a new flavor story—rich, unexpected, and deeply satisfying. My taste buds were in shock—in the best way possible.
Chef Torey isn’t just a culinary expert—he’s the kind of chef we all secretly dream of having as a life partner. He knows how to plan meals creatively, prep with intention, keep a clean kitchen, and nourish people through food three times a day. With a chef like that, who needs takeout?
Rooted in Tradition: A Louisiana Boy with Big Flavor Dreams
Born and raised in Louisiana, Chef Torey’s earliest memories revolve around the dinner table. His grandmother cooked every day, bringing the family together with hot meals, laughter, and long conversations. Those moments left a lasting imprint.
“The idea of bringing family together is what made me fall in love with cooking,” he recalls. “I remember when I was a kid, my grandmother always cooked. It was something about all of us sharing a meal together.”
That sense of community and connection is still the backbone of his cooking philosophy today. It’s not just about the food—it’s about how the food makes people feel.
From Dishwasher to Chef: A Journey of Passion and Purpose
Torey got his first restaurant job at 16, and from that moment, he was hooked. What started as a teenage job quickly evolved into a lifelong calling. With every position—from dishwasher to line cook to sous chef—he soaked up knowledge like a sponge. But it wasn’t just about technique; it was about heart.
“I can’t name a favorite dish to cook,” he says with a grin. “I just love preparing food.”
That passion comes through in every bite of his cooking. Whether it’s a simple weekday stir-fry or a complex, spice-layered curry, he brings the same care and curiosity to the stove.
Torey Shelton’s Top 3 Tips for Cooking with Love
If you’re preparing a meal for someone you care about, Chef Torey has three golden rules that never fail:
1. Cook with Creativity
“Cooking is an art. It should be done with love and inspiration.”
Torey encourages experimenting with flavors, textures, and techniques. Don’t be afraid to try new spices or mix unexpected ingredients. That boldness keeps cooking exciting—and often leads to unexpectedly brilliant meals.
2. Prep with Purpose
“Respect the ingredients. Respect the people you’re feeding.”
Thoughtful preparation is about more than chopping vegetables. It’s about creating a seamless experience from kitchen to plate. Having a plan allows you to enjoy the process and make adjustments along the way with grace, not panic.
3. Prioritize Cleanliness—Inside and Out
“A clean kitchen and a clean heart are both essential.”
For Chef Torey, hygiene isn’t just a health requirement—it’s a sacred part of the process. He believes that food absorbs energy, and that’s why he cooks with a pure mindset, clean tools, and respect for every step.
Bringing Soul to Every Dish
Whether he’s cooking gumbo for a community dinner, plating a five-star seafood spread, or helping a friend figure out what to do with three potatoes and a lemon, Chef Torey’s mission is clear: feed people with intention.
He doesn’t cook to impress—he cooks to connect.
He understands that meals are more than just sustenance. They’re about family, memory, and belonging.
“I want people to feel loved when they eat my food,” Torey says. “That’s the greatest compliment.”
What’s Next for Chef Torey?
Chef Torey is exploring his next chapter—possibly opening a pop-up kitchen or catering concept rooted in Southern and Creole tradition with a modern twist. He’s also passionate about mentoring young chefs, especially those from underrepresented communities, to help them find confidence and joy in the culinary world.