Executive Sous Chef Deignan

Meet Executive Sous Chef Deignan!

Getting to know Executive Sous Chef Justin Deignan

Executive Sous Chef Justin Deignan, of Firefly Eatery & Bar, joined The Dana’s culinary team in 2015. Originally from Sacramento, he is happy to now call San Diego home. Justin had always been drawn to the culinary arts, and eventually decided to switch fields from Education and turn his passion for creating food into his career. He enrolled at The Art Institute of California- San Diego in 2010, where he obtained a degree in Culinary Arts.

San Diego Food Scene

It’s no secret that San Diego is well known for it’s up and coming culinary scene. Luckily for us, Chef Deignan comes to us with a wealth of experience, from some of the hippest restaurants in the local industry. Upon graduating, Justin honed his skills training with some of San Diego’s most celebrated chefs, which included Christian Graves at East Villages’ JSix, and Anthony Sinsay at La Villa in Little Italy.

Sundaes and Sundays

When you ask Justin what his favorite dish to prepare is, you might think of our Pan Roasted Salmon with cumin lentils, roasted fennel and broccolini, or maybe our Braised Beef Short Ribs. However, Justin’s favorite dish to prepare is a hot fudge sundae.

In his spare time, Justin enjoys exploring all that San Diego has to offer. On his days of leisure, you may catch him gallivanting around town in search of the hippest and newest restaurant or bar.  You could also spot him trying to find amazing new bites or craft brews to try.

Stop by the Firefly and check out some of Deignan’s delectable menu items and give him a quick hello, or better yet, ask him for his own brew recommendation!