Portrait of Charles Kelsey
i. Biography
The Climb
At the Culinary Institute of America, Charles Kelsey built the formal training that later informed a career moving between food media and the sandwich counter. A former gourmet writer at Gourmet, he brings editorial discipline to work that stays focused on execution rather than ornament. Since 2009, Kelsey has owned Cutty's, where the business has been anchored in sandwiches and in the same practical standards that shaped his earlier work.
The Sunday email
Read about chefs like Charles Kelsey in the Sunday email.
Every Sunday we send a lead story and up to four more about the chefs, winemakers, sommeliers and hoteliers behind the restaurants, bars, wineries and hotels we cover.
Recent stories
Free. One email a week, and you can unsubscribe from any issue.
Signature
Kelsey's signature dishes include Roast Beef 1000, Greens Shallot, and spicy pork and cilantro torta. The names read plainly, which fits the work: sandwiches built to carry flavor without excess.
In Their Words “And I feel like, we've created so much tasty stuff that other people get to enjoy as well.”
FAQ
Asked of Charles
What is Charles Kelsey's current role?
As of 2026, Charles Kelsey is Chef-owner.
Where did Charles Kelsey train or study?
Charles Kelsey trained at Culinary Institute of America.
What is Charles Kelsey known for?
Sandwiches.
Explore
In the same rooms
The Sunday email
Read about chefs like Charles Kelsey in the Sunday email.
Every Sunday we send a lead story and up to four more about the chefs, winemakers, sommeliers and hoteliers behind the restaurants, bars, wineries and hotels we cover.
Recent stories
Free. One email a week, and you can unsubscribe from any issue.