Cooking with Grandad
While most kids were watching television or playing outside, Jayden Canady was in the kitchen experimenting. Inspired by Food Network, at 12 years old, Canady taught himself how to make cinnamon rolls. Coming from a single-parent household, Canady’s mother often worked, so he spent a lot of time by himself, which gave room for his creativity.
“It’s about representing myself on a plate,” said Canady.
Canady was born in Texas but spent most of his childhood growing up in Milwaukee once his mother was honorably discharged from the military. He spent many days in the kitchen with his grandfather James Canady, where he learned how to make southern mac and cheese, collard greens, and other Creole/Cajun/Southern dishes.
His love for cooking never went away. After graduating from high school, Canady headed to Le Cordon Bleu in Las Vegas, where he received a food science degree. In 2019, thanks to his late uncle, Branden Bell, Canady went to work on Martha’s Vineyard at The Atlantic Fish & Chop after culinary school. Martha’s Vineyard is a glacial island located off the southeastern coast of Massachusetts, which is only accessible by ferry or airplane.
School taught him the fundamentals of cooking, but Martha’s Vineyard taught him discipline. He also held Executive Chef roles in Las Vegas and Los Angeles.
“Experience is something people can’t take from you,” he said.
After just a few years into his sous chef career, Canady reached out to Food Network, which eventually led to him being on Chopped.
In more recent news, Canady is representing Martha’s Vineyard and Massachusetts as a contestant on the nationally broadcast Hell’s Kitchen: Battle of the States. The show, hosted by internationally renowned and multi-Michelin-starred chef Gordon Ramsay, features top chefs from across the country competing on behalf of their states. The season premiered on September 25, 2025.
Repping Milwaukee, Always
He’s made a living cooking around the country, but Milwaukee will always be home for Canady. And although he’s representing Massachusetts, he said it’s important people know his ties to Milwaukee.
“I love Milwaukee. When I buy a house, I’m buying a house in Milwaukee. I love the community. I love the food,” said Canady. “I’ll never forget where I’m from.”
Canady is happy to see so many people he knows and other locals making a way in Milwaukee.
“It’s crazy seeing how much success is coming from the city,” he said.
To the young people chasing their dreams in Milwaukee, Canady said to take advantage of the programs offered in the city. While in Milwaukee, Canady participated in wrestling, improv, and cooking classes. He said that it’s all about keeping your mind busy.
To add to his legacy, Canady opened his restaurant Idyllwild Tavern in Burbank, California.
“This is really who I am. I love food,” said Canady.
Nyesha Stone founded Carvd N Stone in 2017 to cover positive news while attending the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Stone has a B.A. in Journalism. She has raised over $30,000 to award grants and scholarships. She has also been featured in ESSENCE and worked with the American Black Film Festival.
