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Creative Delights

10?’s With Chef Waverly Howard

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Meet Chef Waverly Howard, affectionately known as Chef Wave, hailing proudly from Dayton, Ohio. Over the last decade, he has breathed life into his culinary aspirations. Chef Wave’s odyssey commenced with launching his food truck, Cruising Cuisine, and establishing his catering venture, Creative Delights.

What began as a fervent idea has blossomed into a remarkable success story, propelling him to the forefront of Downtown Dayton’s corporate landscape. As one of the most sought-after executive chefs in the region, Chef Wave remains dedicated to perfecting his craft and nurturing a vibrant food community.

Beyond the culinary realm, Chef Wave has embarked on a profound personal journey, striving for self-improvement while giving back to his cherished community. His commitment extends far beyond the kitchen, as he passionately advocates for renal kidney failure awareness, a cause deeply close to his heart.

What is your favorite ingredient to cook with? 

My favorite ingredient is Garlic, it brings my dishes to life.
What ingredient do you dread?
I dread utilizing Thyme, too little you can’t tell it’s there and too much it can take over your entire dish.
What’s your favorite dish to make?
My favorite dish to make is Lasagna, it’s a dish that I can make in a variety of ways and it turns out perfect every time.

4 Cheese Chicken Lasagna

What’s your favorite pig out food?
My favorite thing to eat anytime of day is Savory Grits, I have such fine memories associated with Grits.
What restaurant, other than your own, do you like to dine at in the Miami Valley?
The Roost Modern Italian
What’s your best advice for home chefs?
Take risks, be innovative, and have fun with your creations. Food is an experience that you should enjoy putting together.

Family meal brown sugar hot honey deep fried rib pan

If you could invite any 4 guests to a dinner party who would they be and why?
Kobe Bryant-
David Goggins-
Chad Wright-
Les Brown
These are all people who really motivate and inspire me in my everyday life. They share my willingness and drive to win at all cost. Such brilliant minds full of determination I would really enjoy just having a conversation over a good meal.
Who do you look up to in the industry and why?
Bobby Flay, I think he has a really good story that really inspires me as we have several similarities in our life experiences. Throughout all of his obstacles he was determined to really make something of his life and he did just that.

Grilled salmon over eggs with bacon

What do you do in the Miami Valley on a day off?
I’m always working and studying my craft. I have no days off.
Share a kitchen disaster, lucky break or other interesting story:
During a traveling catering event that was scheduled to start at one time the event staff moved the time up an hour before we were initially scheduled. This event space had no tools for me to get my food up to temperature in a hurry. I didn’t want to compromise the quality of my food. I had to think quickly and utilized a technique with my hot boxes and sternos that was shared with me by another professional. I was able to serve my food on time and at the correct temperature without compromising the integrity of my food.