KATHLEEN THORNBURG
EXECUTIVE CHEF
CREDENTIALS
- IUP Academy of Culinary Arts 12 – Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania
PROFESSIONAL
Kathleen’s culinary journey began after graduating from culinary school and completing her internship at the prestigious Ocean Reef Yacht Club in Key Largo. After some time there, she returned home to work at an upscale snack bar at her local brewery. While there, she not only honed her cooking skills but also learned the importance of cooking with passion and heart. The mentors she met during this period had a profound impact on her career, teaching her that cooking is more than just following a recipe. With newfound confidence, Kathleen ventured into the fine dining scene in Chicago, working under two Top Chef finalists and alongside talented cooks from around the world. While working with her team in Chicago, they received “Restaurant of the Year” in the Jean Banchet Awards. After, Kathleen moved to Salt Lake City, where she spent four years refining her skills in creating exquisite sauces and mastering the art of filets and frites. Eventually, Kathleen went back east, where she immersed herself in the world of wedding and event catering. She led on-site staff teams and coordinated meals for up to 1,000 people a week with a small culinary team. This high-pressure role earned her awards from “The Harrisburg Reader” and “The Knot”.
PERSONAL
Kathleen enjoys spending her time away from the kitchen, thinking about the kitchen. She loves finding new cookbooks from old chefs or testing out the latest food trends. When she is not immersed in produce and protein you can find her hanging with her husband and their loveable dog, Eugene. As a family, they enjoy camping, concerts, and taking their jeeps off-road to explore the beauty of Utah.
HOPE, HEALTH & HEALING
“Hope, Health, and Healing” means creating meals that do more than just fill the belly, they uplift the spirit, nurture the body, and foster recovery. Through the art of cooking, Kathleen strives to infuse hope by preparing dishes that bring joy and comfort to those who need it most. By focusing on fresh, nutritious ingredients, each dish promotes health and well-being, ensuring that each plate is a step toward a healthier life. And in every carefully crafted meal, there’s a chance for healing, whether it’s mending unbalanced spirits, recovering from illness, or simply restoring energy after a long day. For Kathleen, these three words encapsulate the true power and purpose behind her culinary creations.
Working in culinary arts since 2012
Working at Bridge House since 2024
