Kristen Cropper
Kristen Cropper
Executive Sous Chef, EAST Miami
Chef Kristen Cropper’s 23-year journey in the hospitality industry has been an inspiring one. With a passion for food that is equaled only by her dedication to nurturing talent, Chef Kristen has carved a niche for herself as a visionary leader and mentor.
Her odyssey began in the most unexpected of places – a soft serve ice cream and burger shop in the year 2000 in her hometown Cleveland, Ohio. Throughout her high school years, she immersed herself in the hustle and bustle of the kitchen, discovering an unspoken connection with the world of hospitality. Those summers became the foundation upon which she built her culinary dreams, inspiring her to venture deeper into the realm of flavors and culinary innovation.
After a stint as a bartender, Kristen’s thirst for culinary knowledge led her to the acclaimed Crop Bistro & Bar in Cleveland, Ohio. It was there where her passion found its true calling—as a sushi chef. The delicate art of sushi-making captured her heart, and she embarked on a transformative culinary journey. She soon enrolled in culinary school to further hone her skills.
In early 2017, Kristen’s culinary adventure took her to the vibrant heart of EAST Miami Hotel, where she donned the mantle of a sushi chef at Sugar. Her artistic flair and dedication were quickly recognized, propelling her to the esteemed position of Chef de Cuisine.
In January 2022, Kristen’s exceptional talents earned her the prestigious role of Executive Sous Chef for EAST Miami. Leading a dynamic team of four chefs and their 28 dedicated members, she embraced her new role. Kristen’s true passion lies in nurturing the talents of her team. Her mentorship style is characterized by patience, encouragement, and a genuine interest in the potential within each individual.
She believes in creating an environment where budding chefs not only refine their culinary skills but also find the confidence to express their unique culinary voices. Her leadership is not just about managing a kitchen; it’s about fostering an environment where creativity thrives, where aspiring chefs find their voices, and where dreams take flight.
