Overview

Early in his career, Matthew opened many highly acclaimed restaurants in New York City. Matthew’s on the Upper East Side was his first, at 28 years old, and soon after came several other well known concepts, including Mezze, Monzu, Commune, Canteen and Commissary.

In 2003, after accompanying a friend to a “raw vegan” restaurant, the course of his life – and the health of a multitude of other people – changed forever. Despite Kenney’s diet becoming more and more focused on vegetables over time, he hadn’t fully considered making a full transition to vegetarian cuisine. Though hesitant at first, he found this raw meal enjoyable and was struck by the mental and physical clarity he felt upon dining. Almost instinctively, Chef Kenney came to the realization that his mission as a chef was to introduce more people to the benefits of an organic lifestyle. This switch to innovative organic, Raw Food cuisine altered his entire way of cooking, eating, and living.

His most recent restaurant is Matthew Kenney OKC, a testament to Raw and Living Foods deep in America’s heartland. Bringing healthful, raw, vegan cuisine to a region most commonly known for steak and potatoes was no easy task, but Matthew Kenney OKC has won over critics and local diners alike. And always – try the desserts! They are simply amazing – and you can eat as much as you want – since they are actually good for you!