From royal palaces to rows of heirloom tomatoes — how Chef Joseph Ushinski is planting purpose, one harvest at a time.
You’d never guess that the guy steering a tractor through rows of kale and cabbage once prepared rack of lamb for royalty. But that’s exactly the story behind Chef Joseph Ushinski, the culinary powerhouse who traded white tablecloths for fertile soil — at least some of the time.
At Natural Harbor, Joseph isn’t just the guy overseeing what goes into the ground — he’s the reason everything that comes out of it tastes like something you would pay for a fine-dining restaurant. Because for over 40 years, Joseph has worn many hats: Executive Chef, master caterer, international consultant, renovation expert, and now — farmer with a mission.
Joseph’s resume reads like a culinary fairytale. He’s cooked for kings and queens, their extended families, three U.S. Presidents, celebrities, corporate titans, and thousands of everyday people celebrating life’s milestones. He’s led five-star kitchens from Saudi Arabia to Southern California, and just about everywhere in between.
And yet, ask him what matters most today, and he’ll point to a patch of land on the Natural Harbor farm and say, “This. Right here.”
A Chef With Calloused Hands (and a Big Heart)
Joseph isn’t just “playing farmer.” He gets his hands dirty — literally — because he believes that food doesn’t start in the kitchen. It starts in the soil. And when that soil is worked with purpose, it can do more than grow vegetables. It can restore dignity, teach skills, and change lives.
At Natural Harbor, Joseph helps lead a bold mission: to give homeless and disabled veterans a fresh start through farming, craftsmanship, and community. These men and women don’t just learn how to grow food — they learn how to grow hope.
“Food is powerful,” Joseph says. “It brings people together. It heals. It dignifies. And when someone grows it themselves? That’s transformation.”
Oh, and He Flips Houses Too
Think that’s enough talent for one man? Not quite. When he’s not stirring risottos or harvesting lettuce, Joseph might be helping someone remodel a kitchen, fix up a home, or consult for a new or struggling restaurant. His hands build flavor, structures, and futures — sometimes all in the same week.
Natural Harbor isn’t a gimmick. It’s a calling. Joseph’s journey — from the highest levels of culinary art to rows of carrots and cabbages — isn’t a step down. It’s a step deeper. Deeper into purpose. Deeper into community. Deeper into legacy.
And that’s something worth sharing.
Inspired? Share This Story.
Know someone who thinks they’re too far along in life to start something new? Or someone who loves food, farming, or fresh starts? Share this story and remind them: You’re never too experienced to grow something beautiful.
Support Our Veterans
At Natural Harbor, we’re not just growing food — we’re rebuilding lives. Join us in creating a place where veterans can heal, work, and thrive. Donate, volunteer, or learn more today. Donate Today! Or contact us for more information.