When life gave him every reason to quit, Chef James Cardelli turned it into fuel. Growing up in California with a rough start and no clear path, he found purpose in a Springfield kitchen, starting as a dishwasher at Jimm’s Steakhouse before working his way into the world of Michelin-starred dining in Chicago.

In this Savor the Ozarks episode, Joy Robertson sits down with James as he shares how persistence landed him in elite restaurants and how he’s now gearing up to help Billy Parisi open a new spot in Crown Point, Indiana. James’s story is one of grit, growth, and finding light in the heat of the kitchen. It's proof that where you start doesn’t define where you’ll end up. 🍝✨

Thanks to our Savor The Ozarks sponsor, Arctic Food Equipment!        

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