(Sparks, Nev.) – Alex Downing of Stella has joined the Roundabout Catering team as chef de cuisine.
After moving to the area seven years ago, Downing started as a pantry cook for Jacob Burton at Stella in The Cedar House Sport Hotel in Truckee, Calif. and later became executive chef. It was this role that allowed him to explore his true passion for ethnic cuisine from around the world. While he is classically trained in French technique, he is a self-taught expert in authentic Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Mexican, Mediterranean and Southeast Asian cuisine.
“We are looking forward to bringing Alex’s talents to our team of culinary experts,” said Chef Colin Smith, owner-chef of Roundabout Catering and Roundabout Grill. “He is a fantastic addition and will help us expand our culinary flavors to best serve our clients and customers.”
Downing was obsessed with food at a very young age. His heroes growing up were Julia Child, Jacques Pepin and Martin Yan. He would wake up early to watch their shows instead of cartoons. Alex started his college education studying to be a zoologist. While in school, he took a job in a kitchen to pay the bills. He is a high-energy person who just couldn’t sit still, and it was then that he realized his preference for a fast-paced environment around food was his calling. He switched directions and made the decision to go to culinary school.
For more information on Roundabout Catering & Party Rentals, visit roundaboutcatering.com.
About Roundabout Catering & Party Rentals:
Roundabout Catering & Party Rentals specializes in unforgettable, personalized special events for individuals and companies. Roundabout has a long-standing reputation in the region for creative, inspired cuisine and 5-star service. Roundabout Catering offers full-service party rentals, providing anything from upscale, one-of-a-kind party set-ups to specialty pieces to custom-designed items. To stay up-to-date, follow us on Instagram, Twitter or like us on Facebook.