Join us in Paradise from March 12th to 16th, 2025

Chef Deja Ru

Bahamian Culinary Trailblazer

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.” 

deja rutherford atlantis npiwff
chef deja at npiwff 2024
  • Looking ahead, Chef Deja is excited to participate in this year’s Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival.

    “Last year’s festival was a blast!” she says. “The entire Kitchen Culture team had an amazing time, and I know that it will be even better this year. We are looking forward to the attendees learning more about our brand and getting #Kultured!”

    At Chef Deja’s Kitchen Kulture, her style of cooking focuses on simple food with personal twist and flair. 

    “Food is cultural, and it tells a story of where a person comes from,” she says. “We are planning to be big and bold with our flavors this year. Combining unique combinations like sweet and spicy and local and international flavors.” 

    Learn more about the largest culinary event in the Caribbean coming to Atlantis this March.





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March 12 - 16, 2025
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