Camden Lifestyle Magazine Issue 02 "The Outdoors"

CHEF PROFILE
Daniel Latham
Photos by Taylor Deann Photography
“My passion for cooking stemmed from just
loving quality food and discovering how I
could express myself through my food”
I started in the industry when I was 16 years old as
a dishwasher at Noah’s Restaurant in the Stonington
Borough of Stonington, CT. That was my first experience
in a scratch kitchen working under a Chef which
had family that owned and operated a Jewish Bakery
in New York. Not long after starting I was doing daily
prep, rolling fresh pasta, and assisting the Chef with
his bread and dessert baking after hours. I was part
of that team for nearly 5 years. From there I worked
at “A Thyme To Cook”. This was a scratch catering
outfit also in CT. I was a Grill Cook and Prep Monster
during that time. Following that time I was on
the opening team for Mohegan Sun Casino, and the
Seasons dining. After five years at the Casino I took
a break from Culinary. The passion for creating quality
food never left and I stepped back into the field at
Stonington Harbour Yacht Club as the Sous Chef for
the 150 seat Fine Dining Club. I relocated south and
met Bill Shaffer (Owner of 401 West) when I interviewed
for the position of Kitchen Manager at Osprey
Cove. After working together for a couple years we
both left for other opportunities. I went on to work at
several Florida restaurants such as Taverna, The Patio
Place, and Amelia Tavern. In the time leading up to the 401 opening I have traveled the region forming relationships with
area producers. Our link to the local farmers and purveyors is a big part of the menu at the restaurant. As Executive
Chef at 401 West Restaurant, I train my team to respect the ingredients and highlight the natural flavors that each one
provides to the final product. Seasonal ingredients, cooked simply, and thoughtfully is the driving mission for our kitchen.
Favorite dish to serve? I don’t have just one favorite dish to serve, all food has its unique beauty and qualities. I do love
me some duck breast though.
Favorite meal? I love much food.
Favorite movie? Anything from John Carpenter, Stephen King and Clive Barker. Oh, and pretty much any Marvel movie.
Favorite Band? Slayer hands down.
A Last Note? At 401 West Restaurant you can look forward to the best fresh ingredients transformed into a variety of
great dishes.