From Jamaica to New York: Paul German’s culinary journey fueled by hard work and dedication
Paul German, founder of Sweet Fingers Catering, shares his journey from a passionate cook to the proud owner of a renowned catering company. With over two decades of culinary experience, German has honed his skills in various prestigious positions across the globe. He started his career in Jamaica at 17, working his way up to team leader in the hotel industry before moving to New York in 2015.
“I’ve always been passionate about cooking,” German says. “I’ve worked in hotels, shops, and restaurants. My journey has taken me from Jamaica to New York, where I’ve had the opportunity to work with some of the best in the industry.”
Chef Paul proudly displays a big catch that he is about to cook. Photo courtesy Paul German
The Birth of Sweet Fingers
The idea for Sweet Fingers came to German during one of his many restaurant gigs, where customers frequently praised his cooking. “People would always say I had ‘sweet fingers’ because my food was so delicious,” he recalls. “That’s when it hit me—I could start my own company and share my culinary creations with a broader audience.”
Sweet Fingers Catering was officially launched on June 22, 2022. The company specializes in international cuisine, focusing strongly on Jamaican dishes. German’s goal is to bring the flavors of his homeland to the United States, offering a unique culinary experience that combines traditional recipes with innovative techniques.
Paul’s extensive experience includes roles such as global chef for a renowned restaurant group in New York and executive sous chef at the Rosalind Hilton Hotel. “Being a global chef means understanding and preparing dishes from various cultures,” German explains. “This experience has enriched my culinary skills and broadened my palate.”
Some of the delicious dishes made by Chef Paul German. Photo courtesy Paul German
Full-Time Commitment to Sweet Fingers
Now fully dedicated to his business, German invests 100% of his time and effort into making Sweet Fingers a top catering company in New York. “If I can put the same energy into my business as I did working 16-hour days in restaurants, I know I can achieve great things,” he says.
German envisions Sweet Fingers Catering becoming a top-line service known for its exceptional food and customer satisfaction. “I want people to feel the love and passion I put into my cooking,” he shares. “I aim to bring new ideas and innovative dishes to our customers, ensuring every event we cater is memorable.”
The founder is eager to collaborate with other entrepreneurs and business owners. “I’m always open to new ideas and learning from others,” he says. “Sweet Fingers is not just about catering; it’s about creating a community of food lovers who appreciate fine dining and exquisite cuisine.”
He is working on establishing a more permanent location for Sweet Fingers, moving from a home-based operation to a dedicated kitchen space. “Safety and professionalism are paramount in this industry,” he emphasizes. “Having a dedicated space will allow us to meet with clients and provide an even higher level of service.”
With his rich culinary background and unwavering commitment, Paul German is set to make Sweet Fingers a household name in the catering world.
