Chef David Kretovics
Director, Culinary Services
As the Director of Culinary Services at Real Journey Academies, I bring over 25 years of diverse experience in the culinary sector, encompassing high-profile catering, restaurant management, and entrepreneurship. I am a proud graduate of The California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, where I developed a strong foundation that informs my versatile and detail-oriented approach to the culinary arts. Additionally, my experience as a culinary instructor at Le Cordon Bleu culinary schools in Pasadena, California, allowed me to teach cross-cultural cuisine and catering, inspiring the next generation of culinary talent by creating a solid foundation for 40 aspiring chefs.
In my personal life, I cultivate an organic garden that utilizes waste composting to enrich the soil, yielding fresh vegetables and culinary herbs. This endeavor not only supports my culinary interests but also reflects my commitment to sustainability. I also have a passion for woodworking, which allows me to express my creativity through building projects for my garden and various home improvements.
Throughout my career, I have gained invaluable expertise as a Research & Development Chef, focusing on the retail manufacturing sector to create nutritious meal options for K-12 students across more than 600 charter schools in California. My dedication to excellence drives me to stay abreast of industry trends and innovations, ensuring we meet the evolving nutritional needs of our students while fostering a healthy and engaging dining experience.
