07/17/2025
MKE Chefs spotlight
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Chef Jose Gonzalez
Executive Chef | Eldr+Rime | Milwaukee, WI
Jose Gonzalez is the Executive Chef of Eldr+Rime, a globally inspired restaurant in Milwaukee where his passion for world flavors, craftsmanship, and hospitality come to life. A proud Mexican-American, Chef Jose was born in Mexico and raised in the U.S., where he worked his way up through kitchens with grit, discipline, and an insatiable curiosity for global cuisine. Entirely self-taught, he immersed himself in the culinary traditions of countless cultures—believing that to understand a place, you must first taste its food.
His cooking blends technique and soul, often bridging the traditional with the modern, the refined with the rustic. Whether creating Nordic-inspired dishes at Eldr+Rime or exploring bold Latin flavors, Chef Jose brings a personal touch rooted in heritage, resilience, and the belief that food should tell a story.
Beyond the kitchen, Jose is a lover of art, music, and adventure. He draws daily inspiration from his family—especially his children, who remind him why he started this journey in the first place. His mission is simple but powerful: to use food as a force for connection, culture, and care—ensuring that everyone, no matter where they come from, can find joy and nourishment in a good meal.
