Chef Profile

John Mastacciuola heads the CulinArt kitchen at Con Edison’s corporate office, in the heart of New York’s Union Square. In addition to providing great food for over 2,000 employees, Mastacciuola oversees catered events ranging from boardroom luncheons to evening galas. Though Con Edison employees have a multitude of dining options in the area, Mastacciuola’s creative, appetizing menus help keep them loyal to the Con Edison Café. A selection from his café menu, Orange-Teriyaki Glazed Duck Breast, is a favorite with diners and Chef Mastacciuola explains why Kikkoman Teriyaki Marinade & Sauce is perfect for the dish.

"I started using Kikkoman products as simple marinades, but as I learned to make great sauces, I found more and more applications for these seasonings. Everything from Kikkoman Soy Sauce to their Teriyaki Marinade & Sauce is so versatile – it can be used as the base of a sauce, or used more subtly to add something extra to a dish that may not even be considered Asian."

Chef Mastacciuola first became excited in the culinary arts by spending time in his family’s cucina. "Coming from a large Italian family, cooking was always a big deal around my house. I spent a lot of time in the kitchen, ever since I was able to work. I had the best instructors you could ask for–my mother, grandmother and other family members."

Chef Mastacciuola pursued this love of cooking at the New York Restaurant School, (now known as The Art Institute of New York City), where he graduated fifth in his class with credentials in Culinary and Pastry Arts, as well as Hotel Restaurant Management. Since graduating, Chef Mastacciuola has owned and managed two restaurants, including the Greenwich Café in Manhattan, a 120-seat American fusion restaurant where he designed and supervised execution of the menu, and a complete line of bakery and pastry items. Whether creating salads, small plates or entrées like his Orange-Teriyaki Glazed Duck Breast, Chef Mastacciuola appreciates the flavor enhancing abilities of Kikkoman Teriyaki Marinade & Sauce.

"Kikkoman is such a recognized brand for quality and flavor. My customers respond positively knowing we serve Kikkoman products."

With a focus on consistent food and service, Chef Mastacciuola pays particular attention to quality and pushing the limits with new creative ideas. With thousands of places to eat in New York, Chef Mastacciuola knows that fresh, innovative menu inspirations are key to return customer visits.

"My challenge right now is to keep 2,000 customers coming back every day, while keeping them excited about the menu. We serve breakfast and lunch five days a week to the same base of customers. I have to constantly reinvent the menu while introducing new dishes and flavors. Kikkoman is one ingredient that helps me meet that challenge."