Meet AJ Macasadia | Chef

We had the good fortune of connecting with AJ Macasadia and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi AJ, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Thought process behind starting own business was first the logistics.. I used my experience in the arena where I was the exec chef for 3 years. I just imagined a concession stand and the flow of what type of concept I wanted to do.. if you simplify what you do and do it well it will be a hit. Then from there I brainstormed names with the family and wanted the word “Mac” because of my last name and my sister in law said how about Mac on this?? And it stuck..

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Started my career in the hotel industry right out of culinary school. That is where I learned majority of skills. I was there for over seven years then was offered a job to learn the entertainment side of the food industry in Miami. So we packed our stuff and moved cross country. Then after 2 years moved again across the country to Everett Washington where I was the exec chef at a sports arena. The cross country moves was definitely not easy but it taught me so much. I grew wiser and used my experience to simplify everything and go with the flow. I learned that good food doesn’t have to be complicated and if you just pay attention to the small details and have a plan and execute properly it won’t disappoint. One thing I would want the world to know about myself and brand is that they can expect to meet someone who they can easily work with. I am easy going and can adapt to where I am.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Being away from San Diego for 5 years, we always had our stops to go to whenever we would come home to visit. First we would start with getting carne asada fries or a Cali burrito at el Nuevo millenio because no other city can even compare to San Diego taco shops. Next place would be royal mandarin for salt and pepper chicken wings. 🤤🤤 then grab some good craft beer at liberty station food hall. There’s so much variety and the ambiance is always lively. And the last place would always be hanging out with family and getting that good home cooked Filipino food. There’s more places, but too many to mention. San Diego doesn’t get the recognition it deserves.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My wife.. she’s my rock and always supports me in anything I do. She was the one that said let’s move to Miami.. and she was the one that took care of our newborn while the hockey season at work was in full swing.. Also my cousin Joe Aldor. He’s a creative director of CSC and he’s the one that created my logo and the flyers for my pop up.

Instagram: Maconthis.sd

Facebook: A.J. Macasadia