Ivan EpifantsevCommunity profile

Chef Ivan Epifantsev, who has worked for restaurants owned by Yana Fomina and Anastasia Spirina in Novosibirsk, is currently the head chef at the Pan-Asian gastropub Poke Top, where he creates original dishes and cocktails. He previously managed the kitchen of the Italian trattoria "Testo Mesto," specializing in authentic Italian pizza and handmade pasta.

Ivan began his culinary career by consciously deciding to attend a vocational school to become a chef. This was back in 2008. While studying at the school, Ivan also worked in various catering establishments, including a school cafeteria. He gradually honed his culinary skills, working in restaurants such as "Tsarskaya Okhota" and "Peoples," and continued his education. In which restaurants did he work? Ivan's interest in Pan-Asian cuisine began when he worked at one of the most popular restaurants in Novosibirsk, "Sushi Yama," which was considered a premium establishment for its Japanese cuisine. It was there that he developed a passion for sushi and rolls. Later, Ivan moved to the teppan-yaki bar "Myatny Karas," where he worked for about five years. These two restaurants served as a foundation for Ivan Epifantsev's career development and his love for Pan-Asian cuisine. After that, Ivan worked as a head chef on projects such as "Testo Mesto," and was affiliated with the culinary school "Kitchen Behind the Scenes." This experience, development, and skills led him to his current position as the head chef at the popular Novosibirsk gastropub Poke Top. What qualities and skills helped him become a successful chef? Ivan possesses qualities such as perseverance, diligence, and a strong focus on his profession. He is able to develop his skills in the culinary and restaurant industry, even if he lacks experience in a particular area, and he is always willing to learn and acquire the necessary skills. These qualities help him advance in his career and achieve results. What projects has he already completed, and what projects are in the pipeline? Epifantsev was involved in the opening of the trattoria "Testo Mesto" and the gastropub Poke Top. He also played a key role in opening cafes and restaurants in other cities in Russia, providing guidance, sharing his experience, and training staff. He also participated in the development of food delivery services. Ivan is always looking for new challenges and opportunities to grow and improve. His current plans include developing the existing gastropub, opening new restaurants within the Yana and Anastasia group, and exploring new concepts. He is also focused on developing his skills at the culinary school, where chefs and guests learn together and constantly improve their techniques. Ivan is also actively involved in various gastronomic events and collaborations with other chefs and industry professionals. He also trained at the Moscow Pizza School, where Alexander Bogdanov was his instructor, and gained extensive experience in making various types of pizza. Additionally, he studied at a baking school and is skilled in making both sourdough and non-sourdough breads, with Natalia Shchadnykh as his mentor. Ivan Epifantsev is a multifaceted individual who strives to develop in various areas, not just in the food industry. He also holds a professional legal degree. Three key principles that guide his work, and his signature dishes. The most important principle for a chef is responsibility in everything. He believes that punctuality is also essential in all aspects of work. He strives to never be late and believes that this quality is crucial for achieving goals. "In our work, being late and making others wait is unacceptable. Just as overcooking a dish can ruin its flavor and texture, being late can reflect poorly on you." Ivan is characterized by his diligence and resilience. He dedicates a significant amount of time to his work and professional development. He treats each project as if it were his own child, giving it the attention and care it deserves. His signature dishes are sushi and pizza.