Behind the Apron with Chef Max
We sat down with Chef Max Chuvalas of SHIA by Edward Lee to discuss his nearly two-decade culinary journey, the chef who inspired it all, and how balance shapes every dish he creates.
Don't ask why. Tell your mama, tell your daddy, tell the world.
What or who sparked your culinary journey — and what made you keep going?
Chef Max: 100% Chef Tristen Epps. I remember the first time I saw and tasted his food — I was hooked. He also helped my family realize I had found a meaningful career path. What made me keep going was that after I left his kitchen, I was able to use my skills and knowledge to find new opportunities, meet an insane amount of new people, and cook the food I believe in... and I'm still going!
Is there a food fact or ingredient that still blows your mind?
Chef Max: "Sea rice" is the grain from the aquatic plant Zostera marina, or eelgrass. This sustainable, gluten-free grain is high in protein and vitamins and can be used to make flour for bread and pasta or cooked like rice.
What dish or ingredient connects you most deeply to your heritage — and how do you honor it in your cooking today?
Chef Max: Greek salad — this was one of my father's staples growing up. NO lettuce, never, ever, never. I always loved the balance: salty, acidic, sweet, meaty, spiced, a touch of bitter, and textured. Looking back, it has all the flavor profiles you need to curate a well-rounded dish as a chef.
What's your must-have snack or drink when you're cooking for a big crowd?
Chef Max: Anything I can put on a grill or smoker and a good local light beer in a cold can or bottle that can fit in an iced cooler right next to the grill.
What song or artist is on repeat for you right now — and why should we all be listening? If you had a theme song, what would it be?
Chef Max: "Sugar On My Tongue" by Tyler, The Creator. Don't ask why. Tell your mama, tell your daddy, tell the world.
Chef Max was featured at the Azúcar Negra installation of the DC Supper Club in November 2025. Spread the love and follow his story @ifmaxhadinsta.