From Chicago's distinguished Gold Coast to crimson and gold laden Harvard Square, Daniel L. Pogue takes the reins as Executive Chef at Grafton Street where he'll uphold the ambiance of congenial comfort and warmth with his unpretentious, yet sophisticated cuisine at Cambridge's favorite neighborhood hangout.

Pogue was raised in New Orleans, a city with a paramount passion for food that is home to some of the most famous and highly-rated restaurants in the world. He attributes growing up in this environment as the driving force behind his decision to pursue the culinary arts. His first kitchen experience was as a Navy Chef aboard a submarine during Desert Storm. After returning from the service, Pogue attended culinary school in Louisiana from which he graduated with accolades. He joined the Hyatt Hotels as Sous Chef and worked his way through the ranks, gaining responsibility and invaluable experience. With Hyatt, Pogue traveled from coast to coast all the while honing his skills and absorbing different culinary styles and cultures.

Eager to translate these skills outside of a hotel kitchen environment, Pogue joined the popular Saloon Steakhouse, located along Chicago's Gold coast just off the famous Magnificent Mile. Pogue well-surpassed expectations at this upscale, high-end steakhouse known largely for its attraction of tourists and celebrities alike. In his three-year rein as Executive Chef the restaurant's ZAGAT rating went up three points and they were awarded the much sought after distinction of Best Steak In Chicago by Chicago magazine.

After making his mark on the Chicago restaurant scene, Pogue traveled to the Boston area where he was named Executive Chef at Temple Bar in Cambridge. In this role, he managed to further refine the American bistro's menu, modernizing it to reflect the contemporary palate, and incorporating seasonal items. Pogue's role in Temple Bar's evolution was recognized in 2005 when Boston magazine named the restaurant Best Late Night Dining in all of Metro Boston.

In the fall of 2005, Pogue made a move to Temple Bar's sister restaurant, Grafton Street. Since then, he has revamped the extensive menu, from brunch to dinner, to encompass his diverse influences and personal flair, further solidifying Grafton Street as a Harvard Square destination for discerning diners.