Jacques Qualin is the executive chef at J&G Steakhouse, an award-winning dining destination perched on the fifth floor of The Phoenician in Scottsdale. “J&G Steakhouse at The Phoenician offers a sophisticated menu of steakhouse classics, including award-winning premium meats, a global selection of the freshest seafood, and seasonal, local ingredients.” Learn about Jacques Qualin…
Follow at: @jgsteakhousescottsdale
Hometown: I’m a native of France’s rustic, rural Franche-Comté region.
First job: At 16, I started as an apprentice at a local restaurant near my hometown.
Favorite ways to spend your free time in AZ: I’m an avid outdoorsman, so I like exploring nature and discovering new places. I do a lot of fishing, hunting, and hiking. At home, I enjoy taking care of my garden.
Your biggest accomplishment and why: I feel a sense of accomplishment when I learn and master new skills I’ve never done before.
The biggest obstacle you overcame: Realizing that I am getting old.
Someone who inspires you and why: Many of my peers throughout my career have helped me grow and become who I am as a chef, in particular Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Daniel Boulud.
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: Never give up, and always aspire to do the best you can.
Favorite quote: “You are as good as the last dish you put up.” – Unknown
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: I am very handy, and I love to fix my house myself.
What makes someone fabulous: Sharing your knowledge so it can help others to grow and successfully pursue their own goals.