Chef Shawn 'Wimbo' Wimberly's culinary journey is as rich and diverse as his dishes. Born in Albany, NY, he was raised by a devoted single mother, alongside three brothers. His earliest culinary inspirations came from watching his mother, a beacon of resilience and creativity in the kitchen.
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Right after high school, Chef Wimbo embarked on a distinguished 21-year career in the United States Navy. Throughout his service, he explored various paths but found his true calling in cooking, a passion that reminded him of the warmth and sense of home he cherished in his mother's kitchen.
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Graduating from the Culinary Institute of Virginia in 2012 with an Associate's Degree in Culinary Science, Chef Wimbo's fervor for the culinary arts grew. As a Certified Culinarian with the American Culinary Federation, his aim has been clear: to bring the sophistication of fine dining into the comfort of your home.
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Chef Wimbo's skill and dedication were honed through extensive experience in local restaurants. He quickly made a mark, winning the 2015 Alpha Kappa Alpha Inc Tidewater Top Chef Culinary Extravaganza and the 2013 March of Dimes Best Dessert title. In 2014, he founded 'Wimbo’s Your Personal Chef LLC', a venture that signified the beginning of a new, entrepreneurial chapter.
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After retiring from the Navy in 2018, Chef Wimbo took his talents to new heights. He managed the kitchen at a local oceanfront restaurant/nightclub in early 2020, demonstrating resilience and adaptability even amidst the challenges of COVID-19. His efforts elevated the culinary standards throughout the 757 area.
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Further expanding his culinary empire, in 2021 Chef Wimbo launched 'Cups Up', a food trailer that quickly became a local sensation. His commitment to community shines through his monthly volunteer work at the Boys & Girls Clubs, where he teaches youth valuable skills in cooking, teamwork, and leadership.
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Chef Wimbo's post-retirement achievements continue to accumulate. He's a winner of the 2023 War of The Wings, placed third in the Virginia Beach 2023 She Crab Soup competition, and secured second place in the 2022 Mac n Cheese Festival. He's a beloved local chef for the top-rated TV show in Hampton Roads and has been featured in various local magazines and TV shows.
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As of September this year, Chef Wimbo stepped away from the restaurant to focus fully on his personal culinary endeavors, pursuing his dreams and continuing to leave an indelible mark on the culinary landscape.
