Chef Ford
Executive Chef Ford is a restaurateur with over three decades of culinary experience - three Super Bowls, two World Series and one US OPEN. Chef Ford brings a passion for innovation and an unwavering commitment to work ethic and quality to Avenue Kitchen & Cocktails. The Chef brings holistic cooking-from-scratch and “Farm to Fork” dining to beautiful Downtown Norfolk.
While becoming an alumnus in England at the legendary Culinary Institute of Le Cordon Bleu, Mr. Ford honed his skills in some of the world’s most acclaimed kitchens, including Michelin-Star establishments in New York, France, Dubai, and Paris. He worked with notable and prestigious Chefs on his journey. His experience in sports and entertainment culinary cuisine has allowed him time to perfect various flavor profiles, procure seasonal ingredients, test super-power foods, and build a concentration in how spices & herbs are activated within foods. He crafts exquisite dishes that reflect an international-fusion of tradition and modernity. His signature style combines meticulous technique with a creative flair, resulting in a menu that delights the sensory experience for the sophisticated palate all while celebrating the artistry of fine dining.
Beyond the kitchen, he is dedicated to sustainability, sourcing ingredients from local farms and artisans, and creating a dining experience that is both luxurious and environmentally conscious. When not curating culinary menu masterpieces, he enjoys exploring new cultures and cuisines, mentoring and inspiring youth, and traveling for inspiration in his next culinary creation.
