Chef Elton's expertise lie in the fields of Asian, Southwestern, Mediterranean, and New American, but these are by no means his boundaries. A true passion and talent for the culinary arts allow him to create in any style with delicious results.

Now El Centro is offering Elton a chance to continue his gourmet legacy with complete creative control over all catering at El Centro. This allows Elton to really stretch his culinary mind and work directly with clients, tailoring every menu to their personal desires. No job is too big or too small.

Our Head Chef, Elton Hyndman, has been working in restaurants, catering companies, and now social service food programs since the age of eleven. Before he could even see over the lunch counter, people have been enjoying his spin on the culinary arts.

After being schooled in a small culinary program in Madison, Wisconsin during the early 90's, Elton set out on an international exploration of alternative cuisine. First in the jungles of South-East Asia he got to the heart of tropical Thai and Indonesian style, finding some of the most amazing recipes and techniques in tiny huts serving food to the locals who wait on make-shift benches and tables.

Next, it was on to Australia for an extended stay and many interesting spins on traditional western fare. Six months in Australia can open your mind to many culinary possibilities, in Elton's mind, there is no longer only one way to prepare a meal.

Finally, it was a trip around these United States that afforded Elton many amazing opportunities. First there was a tiny little cafe called "Chef du Jour" where Elton was the lead chef in an open kitchen, with a weekly revolving menu. Vowing never to repeat a menu kept him on his toes, and the faithful eaters were very appreciative.

Next, was an amazing opportunity to help open a restaurant from scratch in the wonderful state of New Mexico. Paired with one of the most creative and knowledgeable chefs in the entire southwest, Matthew Brewer, the two created a true masterpiece as menu after menu continued to top the one before it. Cafe Bodega, which is in full glory to this day, was Elton's proudest moment, to date.

Finally, the round the world trip brought Chef Elton to the great state of Washington. Answering an ad for a chef/kitchen manager, Elton was offered the opportunity of a lifetime at "El Centro de la Raza." Now he is able to use his talents for the greater good, feeding those who need to be fed, the most appreciative customers around.