ABOUT MARK DENTON
Born and raised in San Jose, Ca with four older brothers Mark saw the importance of a family meal. Gathering around the table to enjoy simple food brought smiles to everyone. As a home-schooler throughout all grades, Mark was involved in the Scouting organization where he first started cooking for others on weekend camping excursions. Mark soon realized that morale through food was huge for the young men, this, later on, became more evident on a ship. Mark’s early culinary experience was working for a California staple In-N-Out Burger and High Five Pizza Co. These two restaurants provided a foundation of quality ingredients, high sanitation standards, and great customer service. After joining the U.S. Coast Guard in 2008 Mark attended Culinary School a 13-week crash course in all basic aspects of the field. After graduation, on-the-job training is where the real experience begins. After being stationed on 4 ships and one station from 2008-2019. Mark returned to his roots; Culinary School this time as an Instructor in 2019. After Instructing over 500 culinary students over four years, Mark’s career transitioned yet again. In summer 2023 Mark was selected as the Special Command Aide for the District Eleven Commander overseeing all aspects of the Flag Quarters including house management, event planning, and catering. Mark is a Chief Culinary Specialist in the U.S. Coast Guard. Throughout his military career, Mark truly developed a passion for his craft and is now bringing that to the public.
EXPERIENCE
Fast Casual Restaurants
2005 - 2007
Military Chef
2008 - Present
Personal / Chef Consultant
2014 - Present
Culinary Instructor
2019 - Present
Mentor…
Mark believes strongly in mentoring and giving back to the local community where he volunteers as a Culinary Mentor for the Fresh Start Culinary Program at Homeward Bound of Marin Novato, CA. Mark has also been the keynote speaker at two culinary graduations. He would like to encourage you to be a mentor and think about your lifetime legacy.
