Daryl L. Shular, CMC
Inducted October 2017 into Hall of Fame
Master Chef Daryl L. Shular is not only one of the most talented and respected chefs in the country, but he is also one of America’s elite History Makers! In 2014 Chef Shular etched his name in the culinary history books by becoming the first African American and minority to successfully pass the grueling 130-hour; eight day test known as the Master Chef exam. After years of preparation and personal sacrifice Chef Shular prevailed and earned the culinary industry’s highest honor, the designation known as Certified Master Chef (CMC).
Shular has been recognized and featured in many media publications, including the prestigious American historical archives “The History Makers”. His induction into The History Makers in 2005 made Chef Shular one of the youngest ever and one of only a few African-American chefs elected for this achievement.
The Southern born Chef remains humble and continues to make it his mission to assist in the creation of future CMC’s throughout America. He is consistently on tour throughout the US to empower culinary students to not just follow in his footsteps, but to go beyond. He often tells his listeners “that while the ACF CMC exam is the most challenging culinary skills test in the world, it’s something I’ve pursued my entire career. It simply shows that if you are determined and believe in yourself, dreams can and will come true”. This has become the staple of his presentations to young, aspiring Chefs throughout the world.
As if earning the status of CMC isn’t enough, Chef Shular has a history of embracing challenges and overcoming the odds. As a member of the American Culinary Federation since 1993, he has received over twelve gold medals and eight “Best in Shows” in local and national and competitions. Additionally, in 2008 Chef Shular was a member of the internationally recognized ACF United States Culinary Olympic Team, the official culinary regional team representing the United States in international culinary competitions. The team achievement was an Olympic Gold Medal, winning top honors against 63 teams at the IKA “Culinary Olympics” held every four years in Erfurt, Germany. His achievement, dedication, talent, and leadership ability earned him the position of team captain for the ICS International Culinary Regional Team that competed at the Culinary Olympics in 2012.
Currently, Chef Shular is kicking off an online culinary course, working on his first recipe book, and even a television show displaying his skills and continuing his mission to teach others how to live a healthy life style while still enjoying the art of culinary cuisines! He has earned the respect due a Master Chef and he continues to make historical trails.
Shular resides in Atlanta, GA with his wife, Michelle, and their three daughters.