Inspiring Change through Delicious Food | Chef Matthew Kenney

Early Influences

Matthew Kenney reflects on his formative years in a small town in Maine, where his life was deeply connected to the environment and seasons. His childhood diet was rich in local seafood and vegetables, which he now recognizes as a healthy way to grow up 1. Despite initially pursuing political science, a pivotal moment in Hawaii inspired him to open a restaurant in New York 1. His culinary journey began at a Sicilian restaurant, where he was encouraged to attend the French Culinary Institute, which provided him with essential skills but also highlighted a disconnect between his passion for fresh, local ingredients and the traditional techniques taught there 2.

   

Yoga & Lifestyle

In the late 1990s, Kenney embraced yoga, which significantly influenced his food choices and career path. The practice of yoga, particularly at Jiva Mukti in New York, introduced him to the concept of ahimsa, or non-harm, which eventually led him to adopt a plant-based diet 3. He recalls the transformative experience of his first yoga class, which made him more mindful of his body and its response to food. This shift in perspective was gradual but profound, aligning his culinary philosophy with a more sustainable and compassionate approach to eating 3.

   

Career Milestones

Kenney's career took a significant turn after the events of September 11, 2001, which forced him to sell his restaurants and start anew. This period of reinvention led him to explore raw vegan cuisine, inspired by a visit to a raw food restaurant in New York 4. Despite initial skepticism, the vibrant energy of the patrons and the concept of raw food captivated him, prompting a shift in his culinary direction. Today, he oversees over 50 restaurants worldwide, driven by a vision to change the global food paradigm towards a plant-based diet 5.