Picture a storyteller who whips up delectable dishes and heartwarming comics with equal flair—meet Jarrett Melendez! This American author and comic writer has carved a unique niche, blending culinary creativity with vibrant graphic novels. From the award-winning Chef’s Kiss to the playful My Pokémon Baking Book, Melendez’s work is a feast for the senses, infused with humor, heart, and cultural zest.
Born in Miami and raised in the deer-filled streets of Bucksport, Maine, Melendez’s journey is as eclectic as his stories. His love for food and storytelling has taken him from Japanese kitchens to comic conventions, captivating readers and foodies alike with his infectious energy.
The Making of Jarrett Melendez
Melendez’s early life was a whirlwind of moves—Miami, Chicago, Indianapolis, and even Mexico—before settling in Maine. A former chef and line cook, he honed his culinary skills in restaurants across New England and Mexico, learning Japanese home cooking from patient host mothers in Tokyo and Hiroshima. This global palate shaped his writing, which bursts with cultural flavors. Writing since high school, Melendez kicked off his professional career in 2009, transitioning to food writing and recipe development in 2020, with contributions to Bon Appétit, Saveur, and Epicurious.
Jarrett Melendez’s Unforgettable Stories
Melendez’s works are a delightful blend of food and comics, each infused with his signature wit and warmth. His graphic novel Chef’s Kiss, a queer romance set in a bustling restaurant, won the Alex Award and earned nominations for GLAAD and Eisner Awards. It follows Ben, a young cook navigating love and career, with a charming piglet named Watson stealing the show. The upcoming sequel, Chef’s Kiss Again, promises more heart-tugging moments in 2026.
In the culinary realm, My Pokémon Baking Book brings playful recipes to fans, while The Comic Kitchen, an illustrated comic-style cookbook, merges his love for food and art. Melendez also contributes to anthologies like Young Men in Love and is crafting Tales of the Fungo: The Legend of Cep, a middle-grade fantasy adventure. His stories shine with diverse characters, queer representation, and a knack for making everyday moments feel magical.
His food writing is equally vibrant, with recipes like maple-wasabi chicken wings and articles on everything from coffee machines to tinned seafood. Melendez’s style is approachable yet sophisticated, making readers feel like they’re cooking alongside a friend.
Why Jarrett Melendez Matters
Melendez’s impact lies in his ability to bridge worlds—culinary arts and comics, queer narratives and mainstream appeal. Chef’s Kiss has been celebrated for its authentic queer romance, earning accolades for representation in graphic novels. His food writing democratizes gourmet cooking, inviting everyone to the table. By weaving his multicultural experiences into his work, Melendez inspires readers to embrace their own stories, whether in the kitchen or on the page.
As he works on new projects, including a graphic memoir and an action-comedy, Melendez continues to push boundaries, proving that storytelling can be as nourishing as a home-cooked meal.
- Born: Miami, Florida
- Key Works: Chef’s Kiss, My Pokémon Baking Book, The Comic Kitchen
- Awards: Alex Award winner, GLAAD and Eisner Award nominee
- Fun Fact: Lives in Massachusetts with a collection of Monokuro Boo plush pigs
Snag Chef’s Kiss or whip up a recipe from The Comic Kitchen to dive into Jarrett Melendez’s deliciously creative world!