In this flavorful episode of the Indulge Podcast, hosts Marlon and Melissa sit down with Chef Jon Atanacio, Executive Chef at the Epicurean Hotel and Élevage Soho Kitchen & Bar, to uncover the gritty, unglamorous path that led him from a doggy daycare job to the top of Tampa’s culinary scene. Chef Jon shares hilarious and raw stories from his early kitchen days in New York—yes, including being slapped by a French chef—and offers insight on creating authentic dishes, sourcing rare fish like triple tail, and why he hires for attitude over skill. The episode also explores how he builds kitchen culture, why gnocchi and sauce work fuel his creativity, and how mole went from hated to hero on his menu.Whether you’re a foodie, chef, or just love hearing about the passion behind great meals, you’ll enjoy this ride. What’s your favorite dish to cook or eat? Do you think passion or personality is more important in a kitchen? Let us know in the comments! #IndulgePodcast #EpicureanHotel #ChefLife #tampaeats ===========================Connect with our Guests! ===========================https://www.instagram.com/chefjonatanacio/https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-atanacio-17958196/===========================Connect with us! ===========================IG: https://www.instagram.com/indulge.worldwideIG: https://www.instagram.com/melsantellIG: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgenmarlonIG: https://www.instagram.com/nxtgen_network/===========================Chapters===========================00:00 Introduction to Chef John Antonassio02:57 The Journey to Becoming a Chef05:53 Learning from Culinary Legends08:59 Challenges in the Culinary Industry11:50 Building a Positive Kitchen Culture15:01 The Art of Cooking and Favorite Dishes18:00 Menu Development and Seasonal Ingredients20:53 The Importance of Local Sourcing23:54 Upcoming Events and Culinary Experiences26:37 Final Thoughts and Last Meal Preferences