The Art of Flavor: Chef Maurice Wells

Nestled in the vibrant tapestry of Chicago’s dining scene, Chef Maurice Wells stands as a beacon of culinary innovation at The Emily Hotel. With an artistry that transforms every meal into a celebration, Chef Maurice invites us to delve into his rich background and explore the tantalizing future he envisions for The Emily’s culinary offerings.

From the warmth of his kitchen to the diverse flavors that inspire him, Chef Maurice embodies the spirit of a chef who truly believes in the power of food to connect and inspire.

Growing up in a single-parent household surrounded by younger siblings, the kitchen became a sanctuary for Chef Maurice. It was here, amidst the aromas and textures, that he first discovered his love for cooking. By the time he was just 11, he was already mastering the art of breadmaking, transforming simple ingredients into something magical.

At 15, his culinary journey took a pivotal turn when he began working as a dishwasher at a family-run BBQ joint in Illinois. It wasn’t long before he seized the opportunity to craft pizzas, igniting a lifelong passion that would carry him across the globe.

His culinary influences run deep, enriched by his grandparents' vibrant heritage, which infused his kitchen with the bold flavors of Ethiopia and Latin America. They taught him the value of fresh, seasonal ingredients, guiding him in the creation of homemade delights—pickles, sauces, and cured meats—that still resonate in his cooking today.

Surprisingly, Chef Maurice initially set his sights on a medical career, but the pull of the culinary world was irresistible. He bravely set aside his pre-med studies, embarking on an extraordinary 12-year journey that would take him from the bustling kitchens of Chicago to the sun-drenched landscapes of Spain, France, Indonesia, Puerto Rico, Brazil, and Canada. Along the way, he even had the privilege of serving as a personal chef to an NFL star, blending sports and gastronomy in an exhilarating way.

Through his travels, Chef Maurice developed a profound appreciation for North African and Middle Eastern spices, alongside the vibrant Pan-Asian flavors he mastered while running an Asian restaurant in Miami. Returning to Chicago in 2016, he dove headfirst into the local food scene, collaborating with culinary luminaries like Julius Russel and championing initiatives such as A Tale of Two Chefs and Chicago Gourmet. His passion for promoting healthy eating in underserved neighborhoods reflects his commitment to the community that feels so much like home.

At Fora, Chef Maurice elevates simple dishes to extraordinary heights. His roast chicken, often heralded as one of the city’s finest, exemplifies his culinary artistry. At Selva, his creativity flourishes even further, as he marries flavors from his travels in Mexico. Picture this: traditional guacamole enhanced with unexpected bursts of pomegranate and watermelon seeds—a testament to his innovative spirit.

The Emily Hotel embodies Chef Maurice’s philosophy of inclusivity, offering something for everyone. Whether it’s families enjoying chicken nuggets while catching a flick at the Rooftop Cinema Club, or adults indulging in exquisite dining at Fora or savoring cocktails at Selva, there’s a culinary haven for every palate.

Yet, there’s more to this multifaceted chef than his remarkable cuisine. In the 90s and early 2000s, Chef Maurice was not just cooking; he was also a touring musician, sharing stages with hip-hop legends like Wu-Tang, Nas, and The Roots. A self-proclaimed musical theater aficionado, he draws inspiration from classics like The Wiz and Jesus Christ Superstar, infusing a rhythmic energy into his culinary creations.

Chef Maurice’s culinary philosophy is rooted in respect for ingredients, a celebration of Chicago’s vibrant tapestry, and a commitment to sharing authentic, elevated food experiences with every guest. He pours his heart into every dish, making each meal a reflection of his journey.

Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Visit us at Fora and Selva, where Chef Maurice’s extraordinary creations await, promising a dining experience as vibrant and unique as the city we call home.