Perfectly placed on the waterfront of Weehawken with breathtaking views of NYC and superior accessibility from both sides of the river stands The Highwood. With the perfect blend of deliciously unique cuisine spurred from classics that have been reimagined with Chef Orlando Clemente’s inspiring visionary approach and the boasting scenic NYC views complemented by a rustic yet sophisticated ambiance, The Highwood truly has something for everyone!

Executive Chef Orlando Clemente

Chef Orlando Clemente was born in a small town called Ahuehuetitla about 4 hours south of Mexico City, Mexico. A rich environment filled with family and community coming together over meals nurtured his love for food. After arriving in New York, and still in his teens, his Uncle Emigdio Clemente asked him if he wanted to learn and work in his kitchen. Fully understanding the great responsibility of running a successful kitchen gave birth to his dream of becoming a Chef.

Chef Orlando Clemente’s skill and dedication landed him the positions as Butcher and Chef de Partie at Blue Water Grill in Manhattan in 2000, a part of BR Guest Hospitality where he continued to learn and honed his craft for well over a decade.

An evening in 2017 changed the trajectory of his culinary career. Chef Shaun Hergatt, a Michelin-starred and award-winning Australian chef, invited him over to cook one evening. The night started with a Branzino and ended with an offer of a job. He accepted a Chef de Partie position at Juni, and shortly thereafter, a Sous Chef position at The Wayfarer, both ESquared Hospitality restaurants.

Chef Orlando Clemente was offered the opening Executive Chef position at That Latin Spot, an American/Caribbean kitchen in Brooklyn, New York. He curated a menu of fusion dishes paying homage to his humble upbringing. The mentorship of his uncle provided a solid foundation to create the melding of three cuisines, executing the menu, and making sure every dish was what he envisioned.

Chef Orlando’s talent preceded him and he was recruited as Head Chef for popular, critically acclaimed Peruvian gastropub, Jora, which was recognized in the Michelin guide. “Peruvian pottery and tapestries set a casually elegant scene at this neighborhood gem, which is quickly earning a loyal following for its frothy pisco sours and dishes full of spice and flavor. The diversity of Peruvian cuisine is on tasty display here...”

Chef Orlando has been the Executive Chef with The Highwood since 2020. He creates his seasonal menus using only the finest ingredients sourced from the multiple cuisines he draws inspiration from to create his signature dishes. His kitchen is a creative melting pot with plenty of room to share his knowledge to those who are just beginning their passion for cooking so it can grow and be nurtured in the same way his passion was.

Chef Orlando resides in Brooklyn, New York with his son Gilberto, his biggest inspiration in life and in the kitchen.