Chef Jaylen Cherry was born and raised in Hampton, Virginia, where he grew up as the middle child among five siblings. From an early age, Jaylen found himself drawn to the kitchen, inspired by his grandmother, who lovingly cooked for her family. He found his first ever job as a busboy at Mission BBQ in Hampton, Virginia.

Upon graduating high school, Jaylen had risen through the ranks there and found himself wanting to improve his skills in the kitchen. Chef Jaylen decided that it would be best to find a more experienced kitchen job. After graduating high school, he enrolled at Johnson and Wales University in Charlotte, North Carolina.

While studying in school, Jaylen worked at numerous restaurants to learn different cuisines and techniques. Determined to turn his passion into a career, Chef earned an associate’s degree in culinary arts and a bachelor's degree in food service management. Following his college graduation, he relocated to Hammond, Louisiana, where he took on the role of Head Chef at The Depeaux Bar and Grill in Independence, Louisiana. His journey from a young boy helping his grandmother to leading a restaurant exemplifies his dedication, talent, and love for food.