Chef Chris Hylton’s Journey from Jamaica to Raleigh’s ORO Restaurant

RALEIGH, NC – Chef Chris Hylton, an immigrant from Kingston, Jamaica, has an inspiring story. At just 18 years old, he began his culinary career in Los Angeles, California. Now, he is the Executive Chef and Owner of ORO Restaurant & Lounge in Raleigh, North Carolina. This article delves into his background, his passion for cooking, and his future goals for the restaurant.

Chef Hylton owns ORO Restaurant & Lounge, located at 18 E Martin Street in downtown Raleigh. His journey to becoming a chef started in Jamaica. He fell in love with cooking as a child and nurtured that passion during high school. Now, he brings his rich cultural heritage and culinary training to his restaurant.

Before opening ORO, Chef Hylton worked in various esteemed kitchens. Most recently, he served as the Executive Chef at OYA Restaurant & Lounge in Washington, DC. Additionally, he held several positions at notable restaurants in Los Angeles, such as Mobay, Kas-bah, and Linq. 

Chef Hylton’s culinary style features recognizable foods paired with international flavors. He uses local and seasonal ingredients whenever available, and this commitment to fresh produce allows him to create flavorful and beautiful dishes.

For Chef Hylton, opening ORO was about sharing his passion for food. He believes in the power of cooking to connect people. By creating a space where guests can enjoy unique flavors and a warm atmosphere, he aims to make ORO a community hub.

Moreover, he wants to pay homage to his Caribbean roots. Each dish reflects his upbringing while incorporating modern culinary techniques. This blend offers diners a delightful experience that celebrates their heritage.

Chef Hylton has big dreams for ORO. He plans to evolve the menu continuously, embracing the latest food trends. His goal is to keep the dining experience fresh and exciting for patrons. In the future, he hopes to expand ORO’s reach beyond Raleigh, potentially opening new locations.

Hylton also wants to build a supportive environment for his staff. Teaching the next generation of chefs is important to him, and he aims to create a place where talent can flourish.

Chef Chris Hylton’s journey from Jamaica to ORO Restaurant & Lounge is remarkable. His dedication to culinary excellence, passion for sharing culture through food, and vision for the future make him a standout figure in the food industry. As ORO grows, it promises to be a delicious destination for everyone who walks through its doors.