“Chef Jesse epitomizes the most important quality for a cook: he has a heart! Of course talent, technique and creativity define a chef; but it is his heart, his ability and willingness to spread happiness by feeding people that elevates a skilled worker to a true chef. Jesse is a true chef. He loves feeding people and that’s what transpires in his dishes and gives them the edge.”

—Ariane Daguin, CEO, D’Artagnan

“Chef Jesse has passion, desire and respect for his products and craft. His enthusiasm is infectious, and his dedication to perfect his recipes is endless.”

—Scott Cutaneo, chef and owner, 57 Main at the Oldwick General Store

“Chef Jesse epitomizes the chefs’ moral code. He came up through the ranks in a very tough business that scrutinizes you the minute you step into the kitchen. Chef Jesse’s accomplishments are indicators of his tenacity, passion, and assiduity for his craft. I have known Chef Jesse for many years and consider him to be an exemplar not only for our industry, but for me as well.”

—Paul Dillon, Associate Dean, Business, Culinary and Hospitality, Hudson County Community College

“If you are looking for a private chef, I highly recommend Chef Jesse. He cooks with so much passion, love and expertise.”

—Mitch Altholz, former executive chef, Highlawn Pavillion

“I first met Chef Jesse Jones when I was Editor in Chief of The Star-Ledger's Inside Jersey magazine and we named him a Top Chef for 2014. Since then, I've gotten to know Jesse not just as a master chef who is exacting and enthusiastic about the food he creates, but also as a caring and generous person who genuinely loves people and can't do enough to build community. His passion and dedication to his craft is infectious. And anyone lucky enough to sit at his table is truly blessed.”

—Rosemary Parrillo, retired Editor in Chief, Inside Jersey

“Chef Jesse Jones IS the soul of soul food! His love and passion for cooking is evident in everything he has ever prepared with or for me! It’s my honor and pleasure to have him both as a colleague and a friend.”

—Cara Di Falco, host of Cara’s Cucina, YouTube’s 1st & only Emmy-nominated cooking show

“Chef Jesse is a great cook. He incorporates elements from his grandmother’s teachings as well as things he learned from 5 master chefs and much more. With all that knowledge he has created a “nouveau southern style” of cuisine that is delicious AND nutritious. This is important for people who love great taste, but are health conscious. Chef Jesse is the future of food.”

—Joshua Thompson, multi-platinum record producer, songwriter, and musician

“Chef Jesse Jones is the definition of pure natural talent, ambition, love, and motivation. His versatility to cook a variety of dishes associated with different cultures, while at the same time creating his own style, makes him unique. His passion for cooking goes above and beyond, and that is what makes him the best! There is only one Chef Jesse Jones, as no one can compare. ”

—Jesse Jones (filayyyy), professional athlete, National Basketball League of Canada

“Chef Jesse is the absolute best. As a true foodie, I have been to some of the greatest restaurants and I still keep coming back and craving Jesse’s food, especially the fried chicken. It’s my all time fav and who knew he was also such a funny comedian? It’s always a good time when Chef Jesse is cooking just for YOU!”

—Lindsay Astor, lifestyle blogger