Chef Elijah Coe aims to bring innovation and foster a community of respect and trust in his new role.
Coming from an extensive and diverse culinary journey, Elijah Coe joins VT Group as Executive Chef.
Elijah has spent over 20 years in the hospitality industry honing his expertise in a multitude of cuisines, running large-scale kitchen operations and carrying out a myriad of events.
Some of his past roles include working in the British Royal Navy as Senior Chef for the Queen and Royal Family, Executive Chef at both Seattle’s Newcastle Golf Club and NYC’s Restaurant Associates where he executed events at major venues such as the Lincoln Center and the MET. Most recently, Chef Elijah worked as Executive Chef for one of Microsoft’s cafés where he served over 1,800 people daily. He has been a part of the entertainment industry’s most notable events including the Grammy’s, MTV Music Awards and the Oscars.
We asked Chef Elijah to share a bit about himself:
What drew you to working in the hospitality industry and what do you love about it?
By luck! I started as a dishwasher aged 13 and was drawn into the lifestyle. I later realized that it was a career that would allow for me to travel, I love to learn about different cultures–after all, food is one of life’s greatest joys: flavors, taste, atmosphere.
What makes a successful client relationship for you?
Earn their trust, get to know them, go the extra mile. Treat every client as your most important one – furthermore treat them as a guest. I like to see myself as more than just an email address.
Out of all the work experiences you’ve had, do you have any events or memorable moments that stand out?
Many wonderful moments and many wonderful events – from the Oscars, Grammy’s and MTV awards to cooking dinners for the Royal Family are to name a few.
I love to learn about different cultures–after all, food is one of life’s greatest joys: flavors, taste, atmosphere.
What are the most important values to you that you hope to bring to VT Group?
Growth potential, innovation, and fun workspace are the most important things to me in any role I accept. I look for good growth potential in terms of my own role within the company and especially in terms of the company’s overall growth. l enjoy working for a company that is innovative and creative always looking to be at the cutting edge of trends. Lastly, I look to bring a positive and adaptive culture with a healthy dose of respect and trust. A positive workplace will create high levels of respect and trust amongst its employees. It is important to me that my brigade and coworkers can respect and trust me just as I can trust and respect them.
What is your favorite dish to make at home?
It not so much about the dish but the ingredients. I have massive respect for the story behind the ingredients, this allows for family discussion behind the story of the food.
Outside of work, what is a perfect day for you?
I love the outdoors, the perfect day is to be camping and cooking outside with my family, while drinking a glass of red!
As VT Group continues to grow, Chef Elijah aims to spur culinary innovation and respect within VT Group’s 200+ staff and diverse clientele. His desire to support local business and growers align with VT Group’s ongoing sustainability initiatives and his drive and ability to think forward meshes well with VT Group’s mission.
About VT Group
As one of Oregon’s premier hospitality purveyors, VT Group provides casual to high-end, full-service catering, event production, and facility management. VT Group’s flagship brands include Vibrant Table Catering & Events, Food in Bloom Catering, f&b cafe and catering, and Vibrant Flowers. VT Group also manages several of the city’s most beautiful and diverse spaces including four event venues and two cafe locations in the Portland Metro area.
Our mission is to foster exemplary relationships within our community, developing and maintaining quality connections with partners who share our same ambition, drive and values.