Meet Chef Jake Caruana, Malta’s Young Talent to Watch
At just 17 years old, Jake Caruana is carving out a fantastic name for himself in the culinary world. As a private chef from Malta, Jake combines his deep respect for tradition with an imaginative, contemporary twist. His story is a remarkable tale of ambition, passion, and family inspiration, a journey that began in the heart of his mother’s kitchen.
Jake’s love for cooking was sparked by his mother, Maria Sammut, the chef-patron of the acclaimed Fifty-Nine Republic. Watching her in action, he not only gained an appreciation for fine dining but also learned the value of hard work and creativity. “She was the spark behind my passion for cooking,” Jake explains. “I wanted to share that love for food in a more intimate way, creating personal experiences for my clients.”
At 16, he took the leap into the private dining business, juggling school with his newfound responsibilities. The challenges were plenty, but Jake embraced them, building resilience and staying true to his vision. “It’s been a rewarding journey,” he reflects. “Every event teaches me something new about myself and my craft.”
Defining Moments
Among the many experiences Jake has faced as a young chef, one stands out: catering three events in a single day last summer. “It was chaotic,” he admits, “but when everything comes together and the clients are happy, the sense of accomplishment is beyond words.” These moments of triumph, he says, remind him why he chose this path.
Heritage on the Plate
Jake’s Maltese roots shine through in his cooking, where fresh, local produce takes centre stage. “Seasonality is key,” he explains. “In Malta, we’re lucky to have some incredible ingredients. Black mulberries, for instance, are one of my favourites, they add such a unique flavour to dishes.”
By incorporating these elements into his menus, Jake brings a taste of Malta to every meal, blending his heritage with his own creative flair.
Dreaming Big
Looking to the future, Jake has his sights set on international horizons. He hopes to train in culinary hubs like Italy, France, and London, refining his skills under the guidance of Michelin-starred chefs. “Each day is a step forward,” he says. “You never know what opportunities might unfold, so I focus on staying open to new possibilities.”
Though Jake has big ambitions, he stays grounded, focusing on one day at a time. His aim is to evolve as a chef while remaining faithful to his roots.
Words of Wisdom
For other young chefs looking to break into the industry, Jake’s advice is simple but heartfelt: “Cook, cook, and cook some more. Practice is everything, but so is passion and dedication. Travel as much as you can, explore new cuisines, and learn from the world around you.”
He also stresses the importance of staying humble. “Start small, keep your feet on the ground, and surround yourself with the right people. Don’t be afraid to take risks, and most importantly, never give up.”
Jake Caruana may still be at the beginning of his journey, but his story is proof that with hard work, passion, and a clear vision, the possibilities are endless. As he continues to grow and experiment, one thing is certain: this young chef is one to watch.
You can follow Chef Jake’s journey here!
