From Mom’s Kitchen to Stamford’s Soul Food Scene | Chef Jean Gabriel of Soul Tasty

Join us on the Hey Stamford! Podcast with Stamford native Jean Gabriel, co-owner and chef of Soul Tasty — recently named one of Connecticut Magazine’s Top Restaurants for 2026.

Jean shares his journey from cooking in his mom’s kitchen to studying in Italy, working with celebrity chef Aarón Sánchez, competing on CHOPPED, and opening Soul Tasty. Hear the inspiration behind this Stamford soul food staple, the challenges of running a small restaurant, and what’s next for Soul Tasty.

🎧 A must-listen for food lovers, local entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about Stamford’s restaurant scene.

The Hey Stamford! Podcast is proudly sponsored by: Hey Stamford! The Store: Your go-to for local goods, gifts, accessories, and more. Stop by in person at Stamford Town Center (4th Floor) or shop anytime online at https://shop.heystamford.com

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00:00 Meet Chef Jean Gabriel Jr.
01:05 About Hey Stamford and Local Pride
01:51 How Soul Tasty Began
02:46 Surviving as a Small Restaurant
03:23 Early Inspiration and Kitchen Beginnings
04:22 From Family Cooking to Career
05:22 First Restaurant Jobs
06:02 Learning and Growth in the Kitchen
06:58 Formal Culinary Training and Lessons
08:13 Culinary School and Studying in Italy
09:34 Lessons from Italian Culinary Experience
10:58 Impact of Italy on Cooking Style
12:03 Career After Italy and High-Pressure Kitchens
13:33 Working with Chef Aarón Sánchez
14:41 Opening Soul Tasty
15:56 Early Days and Community Support
17:17 Challenges of Small Business Ownership
18:03 The Realities of Being an Entrepreneur
18:58 Giving Back and Community Leadership
19:32 The Rewards of Surviving 10 Years
20:25 Wearing Multiple Hats: Chef & Co-owner
21:15 Staying Consistent and Focused
21:32 Good Days in the Restaurant Business
22:15 Menu Highlights and Fan Favorites
23:09 Popular Dishes and Sunday Service
24:09 Desserts and Recent Recognition
25:25 Plans for Growth and Expansion
26:10 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
26:58 Soul Tasty's Origins and Learning Moments
27:44 Family Recipes and Cooking with Love
28:16 First-Time Visitor Recommendations
28:51 Soul Tasty's Location & Getting Involved
29:32 Closing Thoughts and Thanks