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Sep30

Bermunchies Spotlight: Daamian Simmons

Categories // Bermunchies

By @eliizzyv Bermunchies Spotlight: Daamian Simmons

Bermunchies is ALL about highlighting Bermudians in the culinary field. With the recent announcement of a new Bermudian chef at the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club, we decided to reach out to Daamien Simmons to get to know the man behind the food!!

 

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BM: Describe yourself in 10 words or less.

DS: Hardworking, Ambitious, Trustworthy, Smart, Dedicated, Loving

 

BM: How long have you been interested/ worked in Culinary Arts?

DS: I’ve been in the industry for 9 years now- since July 30, 2006

 

BM: Did you further your studies overseas? If so where did you go and what did you study?

DS: Yes I did study overseas... I went to The Art Institute of Charleston to take a Bachelor of Science in Culinary Management Course but was unable to finish due to financial reasons. I aspire to receive my Red Seal Certification which is equivalent to a bachelor’s degree but is the Canadian Version.

 

BM: Who would you say is your biggest culinary influence?

DS: My biggest culinary inspiration would be the great chefs that I’ve worked with along the course of my journey. I feel that it’s a never ending learning experience and that’s the most amazing part about being a chef.

 

BM: What is your biggest inspiration?

DS: My biggest inspiration is my parents. They both passed away in 2013 due to natural causes and were my biggest supporters. I owe it to them to be the best I can be.

 

BM: Other than cooking, what else interests you?

DS: I love music. My mama was a music teacher and so is my uncle. I love singing, playing drums and basketball. I also like spending time with my younger brothers.

 

BM: Where did you culinary career begin and where has it taken you?

DS: My culinary career started at the Hamilton Princess where I worked as an apprentice while attending the Bermuda College. Upon graduating  I decided to go to the Art Institute of Charleston. Due to financial reasons I was unable to finish and I came home and back to the hotel. After 6 years I decided to resign and move to The Reefs Resort and Club where I worked as a chef de parte. I gained many accolades there ranging from employee of the month and of the year. I entered the Rising Chef competition the same year I started working there. Unfortunately I did not win, but I did get the opportunity to be one of the chefs on the cooking show ‘Season To Taste’ with Peter Jovechi. I also started to teach hospitality classes for Dalton E. Tucker Primary School. After working at The Reefs for 3 years I decided to transfer to the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club where I work for Bermudian culinary sensation and long-time friend Michiko Campbell. I’ve been working here since July 2015

 

BM: What are some of your favourite things to cook? (or eat?)

DS: I like to be on the grill.... I like to work all the stations. I’m a big fan of Italian Cuisine and I like a nice authentic Indian Curry as well. I’m a pig- I just love food!!

 

 BM: What are some of your favourite Bermudian dishes? Do you have any specialties?

DS: I like fish chowder (now). The first time I had it I was seasick so I had my reasons to not like it. My mamas ex-husband made a dish with paws paws mixed onions peppers and meat sauce called montespan. It was WELLLLLLL. I still ask him to make it. The last time I had it was around 7 or 8 years ago. I like to make and eat Bermudian favourites like potato salad, bbq chicken, spanish rice etc. When I cook I like to blend flavours. I like to abstract as much flavour as possible in my food. I cook with love and I want people to appreciate my food and as I call it "Taste the Love"

 

BM:  Do you have any words of advice for any young Bermudian chefs wanting to make it in the culinary world?

DS: I would say follow your dreams. Take advantage of every opportunity. Learn as much as possible because the sky is the limit!! 

 

 

If you wish to keep up to date with Daamien’s attest culinary creations follow his IG account here -> Daamien Simmons. WARNING- you may get REALLLLLLY hungry!!!  Here are some of his lovely creations below, and don’t forget to have a taste of his work at the RBYC!!

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