Ian Rough

Executive Chef Ian Rough’s passion for cooking has grown over 16 years of being in the kitchen. However, his interest in food started much earlier. According to him, cooking was a huge part of his childhood, with his father being his greatest influence.

Ian graduated high school and then went on to graduate from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. After graduation, Ian worked as a chef for the Fifty Five Restaurant Group in Columbus, Ohio and also as a private chef for JEGS Automotive before joining the Cameron Mitchell Restaurant family. Among Ian’s many culinary achievements, one of his greatest was coaching the Hot Food Culinary Team from Columbus State Community College all the way to Nationals.

Ian enjoys many different types and styles of cooking, but his favorites are Mediterranean, Charcuterie and Braising. He also says that he cannot work without black pepper and sharp chef’s knife by his side.

The two dishes that his family and friends request him to make the most are Mushroom Bread Pudding and Pig Roast. In his refrigerator and cupboards at home, you can always find plenty of cheese, and sausage, as well as tortilla chips and salsa.

Outside of the kitchen, Ian enjoys spending time with his family, which includes his wife, 2-year-old son and newborn daughter.  He also loves to spend his free time working on cars.

Ian’s advice for aspiring chefs - “Be passionate about everything you do.”