With over a decade of experience, Chef Deja Rutherford — better known as Deja Ru — has carved her own unique path to culinary success, earning a reputation as one of The Bahamas’ most sought-after chefs. 

Her culinary journey has taken her to some of the most prestigious kitchens in The Bahamas and beyond, including Loews Miami Beach Hotel, Lyford Cay, and Atlantis. 

After returning to The Bahamas, Chef Deja joined Atlantis as the sous-chef of Seafire Steakhouse, becoming the youngest chef at Atlantis at the time. She later and became executive sous chef at Fish by José Andrés. Alongside her thriving career, Chef Deja launched her first business, Full House Catering, where she continued to fine-tune her skills as a private chef and caterer. 

“When it comes to my background in culinary, I don’t have a fairytale story of cooking with my grandmother in the kitchen,” she says. “My journey was different. I was always surrounded by food my entire life, but never knew I was going to be a chef. Both of my parents were in hospitality, so going to restaurants and dinners were a part of my childhood. Family gatherings also played a major role in my culinary upbringing. I always looked forward to every holiday because of the fellowship, but more important was the great food I knew I was going to have.”