Episode 42 - From the Line to Leadership – Chef Cliff Crooks’ Culinary Journey

In this episode, we sit down with Cliff Crooks, a renowned chef whose career has taken him from top-tier kitchens to the bright lights of television. Raised in Livingston, NJ, Cliff’s path to the culinary world wasn’t always clear—he once planned to become a physical therapist. But after working at Panevino in Livingston during high school and later stepping into his first cooking role at Marado Blu in Caldwell, he discovered a passion for the kitchen that changed everything.

From cooking at Windows on the World, Gramercy Tavern, and Blue Water Grill to leading the BLT restaurant group, Cliff’s journey has been defined by his relentless drive to learn and grow. His talent and leadership earned him spots on Top Chef, Chef Boot Camp, and a judge on Beat Bobby Flay and Worst Cooks in America, but through it all, his philosophy has remained the same—choosing happiness over money, staying hungry to improve, and embracing every step of the journey.

Now Cliff is a partner in a new restaurant group in Hoboken NJ Cliff shares the pivotal moments that shaped his career, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and his approach to success in the culinary world.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence in the kitchen!