Jorden Smith - Maison Premiere

WHO: Jorden Smith is executive chef at Maison Premiere, the New Orleans-inspired award-winning bar, where he has built an elevated culinary program in tandem with excellent cocktails and oyster offerings. 

ABOUT: Growing up in the kitchen, Jorden Smith’s earliest memories are of making mofongo and empanadas at six years old with his mom and abuela. He began working in hospitality at just fourteen, flipping burgers in a diner before gradually advancing into more professional kitchens, where he developed a deep appreciation for Spanish cuisine, which strongly resonated with his heritage. 

Originally from North Carolina, Smith began his formal culinary career as a sous chef at Cúrate in Asheville, the James Beard Award-winning restaurant led by Katie Button. He later moved to New York to join Chef James Kent and Kent Hospitality Group, where he worked alongside Chef Danny Garcia at Crown Shy and Saga. Since joining Maison Premiere in January 2025, Smith has brought a layered, personal lens to the menu, drawing on his Southern upbringing and Puerto Rican roots. His cooking balances the restaurant’s New Orleans influences with a refined, seasonal style that feels both rooted and distinctly New York.

Maison Premiere in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, has received widespread critical acclaim as one of the most decorated cocktail and oyster bars in the world. Its highly praised beverage program won the prestigious James Beard Award for Outstanding Bar Program and regularly ranks among North America's 50 Best Bars. 

WHAT: From James Beard Award-winning Cúrate to Crown Shy, Saga, and now Maison Premiere, Smith has built an impressive culinary résumé. For this evening, he showcases dishes blending Southern influences, Puerto Rican flavors, and seasonal ingredients.

WHEN: Wednesday, Oct 21, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM EST

WHERE: De Gustibus Culinary Studio