Dohnele Parker
Sous Chef
Dohnele’s passion for cooking began in Michigan, baking with her grandmother. As a mother of three, she’s spent years balancing family life with a career that’s taken her through kitchens in Alaska, Utah, and Oregon. Now, she’s focused on creating exceptional dishes from locally sourced ingredients, paired with regional wines. For Dohnele, food is not just about quality—it’s about nurturing both family and community through every meal.
Dohnele Parker is the Sous Chef at The Cozy Taberna in Salem, Oregon, where her culinary expertise brings depth and vibrancy to the kitchen. With over two decades of experience in diverse culinary settings, Dohnele’s passion lies in crafting memorable dining experiences through thoughtful menu development, expert wine pairings, and the seamless coordination of local ingredients.
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Dohnele’s journey began in Sitka, Alaska, where she discovered her love for cooking while working in local cafés and restaurants. Over the years, she honed her skills in both intimate café settings and large-scale dining operations, leading teams and innovating menus along the way. Prior to joining The Cozy Taberna, Dohnele served as Culinary Lead at Soter Vineyards, where she combined farm-to-table dining with wine pairing excellence. She also directed the culinary experience at Basil & Board, where she successfully navigated the challenges of a dynamic restaurant environment, from seasonal menu creation to adapting operations during the pandemic.
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Dohnele’s leadership style focuses on fostering a collaborative kitchen environment, empowering her team to grow their culinary talents while maintaining the highest standards of quality and creativity. She takes pride in utilizing Oregon’s seasonal bounty, preparing everything from artisanal charcuterie boards to multi-course meals that celebrate the region’s vibrant flavors.
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Recently, Dohnele traveled to southeastern Spain, where she explored regional culinary traditions, gained new inspirations, and honed her techniques in crafting bold, flavorful dishes. This experience deepened her understanding of global cuisine and continues to influence her work at The Cozy Taberna.
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Outside of the kitchen, Dohnele enjoys exploring the Pacific Northwest, connecting with local farmers and purveyors, and continually expanding her culinary knowledge through wine studies and hands-on experience. Her dedication to excellence and passion for the culinary arts make her an integral part of The Cozy Taberna team.