Welcome to our new feature, “Hello My Name Is…”. I hope you are enjoying the chance to spend some time getting to know people in our community. As you know, the best way to learn about someone is to ask questions. In this series we ask ten questions to different individuals so that we can know the folks who live with us here on Cape Cod.
Hello, My Name Is: Joseph Ellia
Occupation: Executive Chef, The Black Dog
What was your first paying job?
My first paying job was at my family’s deli and produce stand called “The Red Apple” located in Buzzards Bay. My duties were to sweep the floors and take out the trash and make sure the place was always clean, along with making sure all the produce was stocked at all times.
When was the last time you laughed really hard?
Honestly I laugh everyday. Most of the time I laugh because of my 8 year old son, Cullen. Sometimes the things he talks about are really funny.
Did you grow up on the Cape?
I grew up all over the country but FALMOUTH was always my home. I was born on the Cape in ’86 and when my mom got married we moved around because her husband was in the Air Force. But I always came back home to Falmouth in the summer to spend time at my Grandmother’s house. We moved back home to the Cape when I was in the 6th grade. It’s been a permanent home ever since.
Where is your ‘go-to’ spot for a cup of chowder?
My go to spot for chowder. Would be………. Honestly, I don’t really eat clam chowder, but I do soups. So anywhere that has good soup I’ll eat!
Do you have a favorite non-profit group here on the Cape?
Yes! Many people already know about the work I do with the Falmouth Service Center, which is such a great group for so many people that are in need of help from all walks of life. I am also involved in the American Culinary Federation Cape Cod & Island Chapter. This is an organization that brings chefs together to help grow and continue to learn and push ourselves to be at our best. I currently serve on board for both the organizations.
What is the one thing you love to do that surprises people the most?
I like to work in my yard. It’s my time where I can just go out my music on and play. I am working on my yard and building a large garden and soon to open a pub shed!
In a parallel universe, what would you be doing?
If I wasn’t a chef I would have been a teacher it’s always been a dream of mine. Or a police officer.
What person had the greatest influence on you and why?
There has honestly been more than one person that had an influence on my life. There are so many people that have steered me in the direction of success with my career and in life. I can’t just pick one so I’ll name a few of them:
My Grandmother for teaching me manners of life. My Uncle for teaching me about having a great work ethic. My Wife for being my best friend and my backbone. My Mom for showing me that no matter what when life hits you hard you brush it off stand back up look it in the eye and just keep going. My first Chef that I worked under and who has become like a older brother to me over the years who taught me so much about being a great chef and about the industry and how to carry yourself. Finally, my Son, he is the reason I work crazy hours and always push for more. I want him to have anything he dreams of in life.
If I looked in your refrigerator right now, what would I see?
Oh man this is a fun question. So I’ve got seltzer waters cause my wife and son love them, milk, juice, pot roast (it’s for dinner tonight), chicken thighs, a bunch of condiments, apples, asparagus, trash bag cheese (if you don’t know what that is then you aren’t a real person). Beer, and I think some pulled pork from the other night.
If you could go out on a boat fishing for a day, who would you bring?
If I could go out on a boat for a day, and have no distractions and just able to enjoy the time I would bring all my siblings with me: 6 brothers and my sister. I have never, in my life, been able to have all my siblings together at the same time (it’s a long story). Eric, Tiffany, JC, Danny, Scott, Taylor, & Brandon.
We are always looking for new people to feature in “Hello, My Name Is…”. If you know an interesting member of the Cape community, please send us their name:[email protected]. When possible, please include their contact information and a little about them.
Thank you!
Want to meet a few other folks? Click here:
Michelle Law, Cotuit Center For The Arts
Timothy Whelan, State Representative, First Barnstable District and Ret. Massachusetts State Police
Emma Dubner, Registered Nurse, Musician (The Ticks), Music Teacher, Junior Roller Derby Coach and Mom
Brian Beneduce, Author and Motivational Speaker
Casey Sherman, Author “The Finest Hours”
Cheryl Park, On-Air Personality (999 The Q and Ocean 104.7)
Amanda Kaiser, Program Manager for EforAll Cape Cod
Ronald Eaton, Funeral Director/Family Service Counselor
About Cat Wilson
