Wendy Escobedo currently serves as Executive Chef at JBJ Soul Kitchen Red Bank. She was introduced to the restaurant industry at age 16 where she gained experience catering, serving and bussing in kitchens. Wendy’s culinary training began under the tutelage of Marilyn Schlossbach, restaurant and catering business owner in Asbury Park, NJ. While working with Marilyn, Wendy eventually became manager of Pop’s Garage on the Asbury Park Boardwalk. Wendy’s passion for cooking combined with her desire to help the underserved community allowed her to take a position as General Manager and Executive Chef at Kula Cafe, a social enterprise that teaches hospitality and customer service skills to individuals with significant barriers.
With her natural leadership ability, distinguished cooking talents and passion for helping those in need, Wendy was a perfect fit for the JBJ Soul Kitchen family. In 2017, Wendy began her employment as Front of House Manager and Executive Chef at JBJ Soul Kitchen Red Bank. She hosts cooking demonstrations, private events and creates/executes bi-weekly menus for the restaurant.
Recently, she was featured on the Kitchen Heroes episode of Guy’s Grocery Games on The Food Network. Additionally, Wendy co-owns ChefsPrep, a private service that provides delicious, well-balanced meals to the local community.