My passion for food started way before my time on the islands. I spent my childhood summers snapping peas on the porch and canning with my Grandma Irene. Gran was a wonderful baker and had 9 kids on a homestead right here in Vancouver, Washington. When I was five years old, I told her that I wanted to be a Chef, and have been in the industry now for over 30 years.
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Within those 3 decades, I lived with my wife and three sons in Saint Croix-U.S. Virgin Islands for 4 years, working as a Food & Beverage Director at a resort on the North shore. My home was on the West side, just around the corner from Sandy Point Beach. The Island herself has a way of feeding you, producing sustenance year-round with effortless maintenance; A beautiful, natural, and continuous giving of nutrients and love through food. Just like Gran grew her own food and shared with her community, the Islanders are self sufficient: harvesting, fishing, and sharing with their neighbors. The magic of the Island shines with the sun, flows with the sea, and manifests a spirited kindness in the culture.
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Conan’s Island Ju Ju represents the magic of the Caribbean, and inspires me to give so much of myself through the gift of delicious nourishment. Everything I create embodies my years of experience in the kitchen, showcases my talent for fantastic flavors, and is imbued with the soulful happiness I feel when cooking. I love nothing more than to see the satisfaction on people’s faces when they enjoy the dishes I make for them.
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The spirit of Juju represents joy-filled giving to others, connection, community, and wild festivals filled with amazingly flavorful foods. It has inspired Conan’s Island Ju Ju and I hope it inspires you as well!
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