Reconnecting with Culinary Passion: The Rise of Chef David Cruz and Reconnect Foods

At just 29 years old, Chef David Cruz has already carved out an impressive culinary career, driven by a deep-rooted passion for food and a philosophy of reconnection. From humble beginnings as a dishwasher to the founder of the farm-fresh brand Reconnect Foods, Cruz's journey is a testament to the power of dedication, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Elevating the Dining Experience, One Plate at a Time

Fostering a Supportive Kitchen Culture

For Chef Cruz, the culinary journey is not just about the food itself, but also the people who create and enjoy it. He believes that a successful kitchen is one where chefs are empowered to thrive, free from unnecessary stress. "I design my kitchen so [chefs] don't have to stress," he explains. "Your hardest job is going to be smiling at people, having great energy, and making people want to come back and see you. Screw the food for once. Have some personality."This philosophy of fostering a positive and collaborative work environment is a stark contrast to the traditional, high-pressure kitchens that Cruz himself experienced early in his career. "I grew up working with chefs who were tough on me and who made me cry," he recalls. "I won't say I regret it, but there were better ways of handling that. Now it's my job to overcome all that and be a stronger leader and an even better teacher."

Reconnecting with the Hudson Valley

Cruz's passion for food and community was ignited at a young age, starting with his first job as a dishwasher at Tony's Pizza Pit. As he advanced to prepping pizza and pasta, he began collaborating with chefs and culinary students at various Poughkeepsie restaurants, deepening his appreciation for the culinary arts.It was during his time at the Culinary Institute of America that Cruz came up with the concept of Reconnect Foods. "I called it Reconnect because through food, I felt reconnected with different cultures and friends who were from other areas," he explains. "It made me appreciate the Hudson Valley more. Since I was from here, I could show them around and introduce them to local farms. We'd visit and host dinners—all while we were still in school. It was for no money, just the experience and connection."

Weathering the Pandemic Storm

The COVID-19 pandemic presented significant challenges for Cruz, as it did for many in the hospitality industry. When the Nic-L-Inn closed and he lost his job as executive chef, he pivoted to working as a butcher at Adams. Undeterred, he started selling food from his home to friends and family and launched Reconnect Foods as an Instagram page to share his passion for vegetables and farm-to-table dining.It was during this time that Cruz's resilience and entrepreneurial spirit shone through. In 2021, he launched his food truck, focusing on fresh, local vegetables and incorporating his Mexican heritage into his dishes. By 2022, he had opened a brick-and-mortar restaurant at Eastdale Village, offering a diverse menu that blends Mexican and Asian cuisines.

Celebrating Local Producers and Sustainability

At the heart of Reconnect Foods is a deep commitment to sourcing from local farms and preserving the freshness and sustainability of ingredients. Cruz works closely with producers like Poughkeepsie Farm Project, Titusville Farm, and Obercreek Farm to ensure that his dishes showcase the best of the Hudson Valley's bounty."A lot of what we have at the restaurant is fresh right now and can come out of the cellar in winter when needed," says Cruz. "We source ingredients from Mexico in winter that aren't in season here; most Mexican ingredients shine better in winter."Beyond the restaurant, Cruz has also been a champion of the local farming community, hosting farm-to-table dinners at Taliaferro Farms in New Paltz. These events not only celebrate the hard work of local farmers but also provide a platform for culinary students and the community to connect over shared passions.

Expanding Horizons and Inspiring the Next Generation

As Reconnect Foods continues to grow, Cruz has his sights set on several exciting projects. He has received permission from the Modern Cabinet Company in Poughkeepsie to use their kitchen for a casual cooking show, where he can share practical techniques and accessible food preparation with his audience.Additionally, Cruz is working on a recipe book and another on his life and culinary experiences. Ultimately, his goal is to become a professor at the Culinary Institute of America, where he can share his knowledge and inspire the next generation of chefs."The new generation of chefs is an even better team player," says Cruz. "Literally that. Being a chef who's aggressive and taunts other chefs is no longer a thing anymore. I grew up working with chefs who were tough on me and who made me cry. I won't say I regret it, but there were better ways of handling that. Now it's my job to overcome all that and be a stronger leader and an even better teacher."As Chef David Cruz continues to leave his mark on the culinary landscape, his story serves as a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and a commitment to fostering a more inclusive and supportive industry. Through Reconnect Foods, he is not only nourishing the bodies of his customers but also the souls of the chefs who work alongside him, creating a legacy that will inspire generations to come.