Jeff Allen is the chef and owner of Cheffrey’s Food Trailer and Special Events. He brings great food to locations all over Greater Gainesville. Before starting Cheffrey’s, he worked at Dragonfly Sushi and Sake Company for 20 years, most recently as head chef.
Gainesville is so much more than a college town. My family and I are 100% Gator fans, but we appreciate all this area has to offer. We attend the football and basketball games but also love the state parks, hiking trails and springs. Our favorites are San Felasco Trails, Paynes Prairie and Devils Millhopper State Park. This is a friendly town with a lot to do. There is truly something for everyone.
I was raised in Gainesville, attended Alachua County schools and married my high school best friend. The opportunities in this community have made my dream of becoming a chef and starting my own business possible.
I come from a long line of amazing cooks, but my passion for cooking comes from my mother. When I was 18, I joined one of the best sushi restaurants in Greater Gainesville, Dragonfly Sushi & Sake. Over 20 years, I perfected every station and worked my way up from dishwasher to head chef.
It is an honor to continue to serve the people of Greater Gainesville and have their support on my latest venture. I enjoy how my customers are just as excited to eat my food as I am to prepare it. There are many foodies in our community that appreciate good flavor and the time it takes to make it. They fuel my passion and keep me going.
Other small businesses I collaborate with are equally passionate about operating in Greater Gainesville. This is especially true in the restaurant industry. We pride ourselves with bringing local talent to the table.
As a chef, I value the great food and entertainment scene here. Greater Gainesville has awesome breweries, music shows and festivals. The atmosphere is inclusive to all ages and interests.
By Jennifer Kennedy.