A Note from the Founder

 

My name is Samantha Joseph,

I began cooking at thirteen in Haiti, after moving to the United States, I briefly pursued fashion design following high school. While adjusting to a new country and language, I found that the kitchen was the one place I could communicate without hesitation. Techniques and flavors became my language.

I trained at Le Cordon Bleu in Chicago and went on to work with Vail Resorts, Four Seasons in Chicago, Vail, and Denver, refining my foundation in classical technique and elevated hospitality.

After the pandemic, I stepped into hospitality management and event operations, expanding my understanding of service beyond the plate.

Over time, I chose to return to the kitchen and recommit fully to my craft.

First Seating Collective was born from that return, a curated culinary house rooted in precision, heritage, and intentional dining.