Star chef in Minnesota finds his own relief serving others in kitchens of The Salvation Army
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}In this undated photo provided by The Capital Grille, chef Jeff Ansorge poses for a photo at the grill in Minneapolis. Ansorge, who used to command a staff of 17 at the posh downtown Minneapolis restaurant making nearly $80,000 a year, gave it all up to become the cook in charge of a Salvation Army soup kitchen where the meals are free and he makes a third of his previous salary. (AP Photo/The Capital Grille) (The Associated Press)
A Minnesota chef is making delicious meals in an unlikely place — a Salvation Army soup kitchen.
Forty-year-old Jeff Ansorge (AN'-sohrj) left a posh downtown Minneapolis restaurant last year to become head cook at a Salvation Army soup kitchen in St. Paul.
Ansorge says a spiritual awakening led him to his new job. He makes just one-third of his previous salary.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}But he still brings his culinary skills to bear making salmon, ribs and stews for the poor and homeless.
Salvation Army Capt. John Joyner says Ansorge makes "phenomenal meals" that would cost a lot at a restaurant.
For the Thanksgiving meal that's being served Wednesday, Ansorge is serving a traditional turkey feast on tables with white tablecloths.