About:Zachary Pope, also known as Chef Zach, the is the Food Director at IAFF Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery. While studying pre-med at Baylor University, Pope took a job as a waiter and was so drawn to the kitchen that he enrolled in the Baltimore International Culinary College. Chef Pope excelled in his studies at BICC and was awarded a seven-month fellowship at the Park Hotel, Ireland’s premier country resort famous for its classic cuisine. Upon his return to the states, he expanded his culinary experience by working as a sous chef, an executive chef at several premier restaurants and launching his own catering and personal chef business.
Pope has a unique connection with members being treated at IAFF Center of Excellence - “I, myself, am in recovery, so I identify with these fire fighters,” he says. “I’ve been on their side. But I have never been to an inpatient place that serves the food that I do, and I think that is special and deserving of this group.”
Awards & Accolades:
- Capital Reader’s Choice Best Chef 2011, 2012, 2013, 201
- What’s Up West County Best Chef 2013, 2014
- Best Caterer – What’s Up West County 2013, 2014
- Roundz – 2013 Business of the Year – West County Chamber of Commerce
- Most Creative Cuisine – Capital Gazette 2013
- Talk of the Town – 5 Star Rated Eatery – 2013
- Brides’ Choice Award – 2009-2014 -WeddingWire.com
- Best Caterer – Capital Readers’ Choice Finalist 2010-2013
- Food Writer Contributor, Patch in Anne Arundel County, MD 2005-2015
