Chef Avery Inspires at Lunch Break Workshop
Lunch Break’s Alliance for Success Career Exploration Workshop series launched with an inspiring session led by renowned chef, entrepreneur and restaurateur, Chef James Avery.
As the Owner and Executive Chef of The Bonney Read, a celebrated seafood hall in Asbury Park, The Black Swan, recently sold to BarCo Brands, partner with the Palmetto Southern Kitchen + Bar in Asbury Park and founder of Nicely Done Hospitality Group (dedicated to elevating the dining experience by expertly conceptualizing, managing, designing, and developing premier restaurant brands), Chef Avery brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the event, setting the stage for an engaging and impactful three-part series.
Before becoming a successful restaurateur, Chef Avery honed his skills in high-profile kitchens, including working as a sous chef under celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay on hit television shows like Hell’s Kitchen and Kitchen Nightmares. He has collaborated with top industry professionals and led culinary operations at esteemed establishments such as Sea Blue by Michael Mina in Atlantic City. His expertise spans fine dining, casual eateries and entrepreneurship, making him an ideal mentor for aspiring professionals.
During the workshop, Chef Avery captivated students with his personal journey, offering insight into the challenges and triumphs that shaped his career. He emphasized that success, whether in the culinary world or any professional field, requires passion, perseverance and continuous learning.
Chef Avery emphasized the importance of pursuing a career that aligns with one’s natural strengths and passions, rather than feeling pressured to follow a traditional college path. He highlighted the value of hands-on experience, apprenticeships and mentorships as essential tools for skill development. Financial planning was another key focus, as he encouraged students to explore scholarships, grants and apprenticeships to minimize debt while gaining practical experience. Drawing from his own journey as a successful restaurateur, he underscored the importance of financial literacy, leadership and adaptability in entrepreneurship. Above all, he stressed the power of strong relationships, mentorship and giving back, values that align deeply with Lunch Break’s mission.
The energy in the room was electric as students engaged in thoughtful discussions, asked insightful questions, and walked away with a new perspective on career possibilities. Chef Avery’s openness about his journey made his advice even more impactful, inspiring students to think creatively about their futures.
“We are incredibly grateful to Chef James Avery for sharing his time, expertise and passion with our students,” said Renee Lerhman, Youth Program Coordinator Alliance For Success at Lunch Break. “His story is a testament to the power of hard work, resilience and the willingness to learn at every stage of life.” The Alliance for Success Career Exploration Workshop Series will continue with upcoming sessions on Careers in Manufacturing and Graphic Design & Social Media Marketing. Each session is designed to expose students to diverse career paths, connect them with industry leaders and provide actionable steps toward achieving their goals. For more information, visit lunchbreak.org.
ABOUT LUNCH BREAK As a caring community, Lunch Break freely provides food, clothing, housing solutions, life skills and fellowship to those in need in Monmouth County and beyond. Our vision is a world where every human being has a healthy meal, a warm home, an open heart and the resources to achieve one’s unique potential.
