Head Designer
Chef James Rosselle

Los Angeles California

 Undefeated Food Network Challenge Winner

“Do what makes you happy!” says JAMES ROSSELLE who is passionate about where life has taken him.  This wasn’t always the case for James.  He was in fact, going to school to study nutrition and dietetics. While in school, James realized he had a passion for food but in the form of cake and buttercream.  James quickly took a sabbatical from the field of nutrition to enroll in the California School of Culinary Arts in Pasadena. Upon graduating from the California School of Culinary Arts, James eagerly approached an opportunity to intern with master cake designer Ron Ben Israel in New York City.  Much of James’ artistry and technique is derived from the teachings of Ron Ben Israel and his emphasis on detail, creativity and color. After only six weeks of interning, Ron hired James on full time. Art, fashion and NATURE are inspirations for his cakes. “I find that pastry; cake design in particular, is much like the fashion industry: involving trends, seasons and colors. One of James’ most memorable moments was working on the “Peony Cake” featured on the cover of Modern Bride Magazine. “I am still proud of the pink peonies and thankful to Ron for the fantastic memory”.

Soon after the experience in New York City, James got the hunger to work in a pastry kitchen. Chicago was the next pastry destination. James interviewed with acclaimed pastry chef Gale Gand, co-owner of TRU restaurant and creator of Food Network’s “Sweet Dreams”. While at TRU, James honed his pastry skills with the guidance and knowledge of Gale Gand. “Learning about kitchen dynamics, recipe development and Gale’s concepts of plated desserts was unforgettable. Most importantly, getting to know Gale as a pastry chef, person and friend was an amazing experience”.

It was time to move on from Chicago and move back to the east coast, Florida, this time.  “I think it is appropriate to say… save the best for last”! While in Florida, James worked for the renowned sugar artist, chocolatier, and world champion Ewald Notter.  At the Notter School, James worked on the Notter chocolate praline line produced in the school kitchens. James was also a chef instructor in the 24 week European Pastry and Baking Program at the Notter School. “Helping students develop their skills and achieve their dreams while working with a master isn’t so bad!” “Ewald shared his knowledge and creativity in sugar and chocolate and it was truly a mind blowing experience”.

A successful instructor at the Ewald Notter School of Pastry Arts, James has left Florida to establish his own designer cake business in Los Angeles California. 

Additionally, James can be seen on the Food Network’s Challenge Series.  He has competed in several cake challenges; Sweet 16, Surprise Engagement Cakes, and Extreme Holiday Cakes.  James has impressively accomplished a “hat trick” winning all three challenges he has competed. He is also one of few cake designers to be undefeated on the Food Network.