MORRISTOWN, NJ. November 19, 2024 (Biz Republic) — Gustavo Rubio is a clear example of the so-called American dream. He left Jalisco, Mexico, more than 35 years ago and ended up at Rod’s Steak & Seafood Grille where he started working as a dishwasher, began climbing the ladder, and rose so high that he is now an executive chef.
Born in Guadalajara, and immigrating to New Jersey in 1989, Chef Gustavo Rubio is currently a prominent Latino personality in the Garden State. He has been named a New Jersey Culinary Ambassador, receiving the “Culinary Excellence of the Year” award in 2021 by the Morris County Hispanic-American Chamber of Commerce (MCHACC), as well as several U.S. Congressional awards, and an award from the Cámara Gastronómica Turística del Perú.
Gustavo Rubio has been a member of the Madison Hotel/Rod’s Steak & Seafood Grille family for over thirty years. Chef Gustavo is responsible for and oversees all aspects of food prep for not only Rod’s, but GK’s Red Dog Tavern and The Madison Hotel Caterer as well. He attended the Culinary Institute of America in 2006.
Last May, Executive Chef Gustavo Rubio participated in the New Jersey Wine & Food Festival held at the Crystal Springs Resort, located in Hamburg, New Jersey. At this event, he interacted with chefs such as Tom Colicchio, Aishling A. Stevens, Karen Akunowicz, Sara Bradley, David Viana, Eric Adjepong, and Humberto Guallpa, among others.
Just a few days ago, Chef Gustavo received some great news from Paris, France, having been recognized as “worthy of being part” of the Confrérie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, one of the oldest gastronomic societies in the world, receiving the title of Maître Rôtisseur, as well as a diploma and a reminder plate.
He participates annually in the “Taste of Morristown,” “Taste of Madison” as well as several other local charity events. Gustavo was also a member of the 1st place team at the Morristown “Iron Chef” event in 2008. Highlights in his culinary career include cooking for the NY Jets, the LPGA, numerous international soccer leagues, several NJ Restaurant Association “Restaurateur of the Year” events and the prestigious James Beard Foundation.
Rubio is a member of “UNICEARCT/MEXICO” Union Centro-America of Culinary Arts & Tourism / Mexico. Chef Gustavo is a big supporter of North Bridge Foundation in free food distribution. Gustavo Rubio and wife Lilia have made their home in Dover NJ. They’ve been married for over 25 years and are the proud parents of Christopher and Joanna.
