Deniz’s love of food began in the Mediterranean, where he grew up in a family passionate about cooking. After immigrating to Canada in 2003, he started working in small East Vancouver kitchens before completing the Culinary Arts program at Vancouver Community College. During this time, he honed his skills at Ouisi Bistro and later worked at renowned Vancouver restaurants including Diva at the Metropolitan Hotel, Chambar, and Medina Café.

Deniz went on to share his passion as a chef and instructor at The Dirty Apron Cooking School before co-opening Cadeaux Bakery. He later returned to Medina Café as Executive Chef, leading the restaurant through some of its most successful years. Today, Deniz brings his experience to catering, consulting, and teaching, after also serving as Executive Chef at Bodega Ridge on Galiano Island.