Jeff Scharf

Jeff Scharf

The Sardine Room

 

Chef Jeff Scharf has been working in kitchens for over 30 years. A Dearborn, MI native, Jeff started his culinary career in his hometown at Paisano’s and Joey’s Comedy Club, where he was hired in as a dishwasher in 1988. Extremely hard working, Jeff quickly advanced his way up the ranks, dedicating himself to learning each station and honing his skills on the line. After several years of steadfast perseverance he earned himself the title of Executive Chef, running the kitchen at Paisano’s/ Joeys until it closed its doors in 2004, and feeding many national comedy acts along the way, including Jeff Dunham, Gilbert Godfrey, and Soupy Sales. Jeff’s next career move took him to Plymouth where he trained the opening culinary team at Compari’s on the Park, a restaurant that quickly became a neighborhood staple due to it’s exceptional Italian-American fare. Continuing to grow with the Yaquinto family of restaurants, Jeff oversaw the openings of Fiamma Grille (2006) and The Sardine Room (2012), both receiving many accolades, including the latter being named one of Detroit Free Press’s “10 Best New Restaurants”.

Today Jeff is the Executive Chef and Kitchen Manager for all three of the Yaquinto’s restaurants, heading a staff of more than 60 and controlling all back of the house operations. His passion for home style comfort food has led to an approachable style of cooking that is both honest and creative. A self taught and exceptionally versatile chef that learned his way in the industry through determination and dedication, he is a leader and mentor to many, including his own sons Michael and Garrett, who are both involved in the family-operated kitchens. Jeff’s genuine, humble, and often humorous personality combined with his tireless work ethic and culinary talent make him a unique and invaluable asset to The Sardine Room, Compari’s, and Fiamma Grille.