Mike Elling

Corporate Chef

Mike, a Fort Worth, Texas native, began his culinary journey in high school before earning his Culinary Arts degree from The International Culinary Academy at the Art Institute of Dallas. His career includes work with Benchmark Hospitality at Deloitte University, cooking for professional athletes with the Texas Rangers’ club chef, and serving as a Chef Supervisor at Dickies Arena. Mike also ran his own farm, Southern Heart Farmstead, a reflection of his passion for quality and farm-to-table ingredients.

Since 2020, Mike has been the Culinary Sous Chef at The Middleby Innovation Kitchen, creating memorable experiences for industry clients. Deeply inspired by Southern cuisine, Mike brings authenticity and warmth to his craft. Outside the kitchen, Mike enjoys fishing and spending time with his wife- Jessica, and their daughter, Hannah.