Meet Lyndsey Barton | Pastry Chef & Food Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lyndsey Barton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lyndsey, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued an artistic career because I love to express myself through my creative work. I am a food artist with over 14 years of experience in creative pastry work. I enjoy sculpting, designing, and building desserts, which allows me to combine my passion for creativity with my love for food. My passion for expression drives me to convey my emotions through my work, finding joy and fulfillment in creating art. I’m often inspired by the world around me, constantly pushing the boundaries of creativity by bringing new ideas and concepts to life. The process of creating, sculpting, designing, or any other art form is deeply satisfying and enjoyable for me. I believe in the power of art to communicate messages, evoke emotions, and inspire others. Artistic pursuits allow me to grow personally and professionally, continually learning and evolving my skills. I also wish to contribute to society’s cultural and social fabric, creating works that reflect and shape societal values and conversations. Additionally, a career in the arts offers diverse opportunities, from freelance work to roles in creative industries, allowing me to make a living doing what I love. I have always been passionate about art and the boundless inspiration it brings. Art uniquely transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, and I wanted to be a part of that transformative process. Growing up, I found joy in expressing myself through various artistic mediums, whether painting, drawing, or culinary arts. The ability to convey emotions, tell stories, and evoke feelings through creativity has always fascinated me. Inspiration can come from anywhere—a walk in nature, a vibrant cityscape, or even a simple conversation. I am constantly amazed by how art can capture the essence of these moments and make them timeless. Pursuing a creative career allows me to continually explore new ideas, experiment with different techniques, and push the boundaries of my imagination.

As Pablo Picasso famously said, “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up.” This quote resonates deeply with me, as it encapsulates the challenge of maintaining creativity and artistic vision in a world that often prioritizes conformity. My creative career is not just a profession but a lifelong commitment to nurturing the artist within me and sharing that passion with others.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What sets you apart from others?
My experience in high-end restaurants and high-volume cities like Las Vegas sets me apart from other pastry chefs in the industry. Working in such a dynamic and fast-paced environment has honed my skills and pushed me to continuously elevate my craft. The demands of serving a discerning clientele in a city known for its culinary excellence have taught me to deliver exceptional quality under pressure. My ability to adapt and learn quickly has been instrumental in my success, allowing me to thrive in situations that require innovation and precision. I have had the privilege of learning from some of the best well-known pastry chefs in the industry, who have imparted invaluable knowledge and techniques. Their mentorship has refined my technical skills and instilled in me a deep appreciation for creativity and meticulous attention to detail. This blend of hands-on experience and guidance from top-tier professionals has given me a unique perspective and a competitive edge. My journey through these prestigious kitchens has equipped me with a diverse skill set and resilience that sets me apart, enabling me to create exquisite pastries that delight and inspire. My unique combination of creativity, precision, and passion for the craft sets me apart from others as a pastry chef. My artistic approach to dessert design allows me to create visually stunning and innovative confections that captivate and delight. With over a decade of experience, I’ve honed my skills in sculpting, designing, and building desserts, constantly pushing the boundaries of traditional pastry work. My dedication to using high-quality ingredients and meticulous attention to detail ensure that each creation is beautiful and exceptionally flavorful. Additionally, my ability to draw inspiration from various sources and incorporate diverse techniques into my work keeps my creations fresh and exciting, making every dessert a memorable experience.

How did you get to where you are today professionally? Was it easy?
I am a female African American Pastry Chef originally from Port Arthur, Texas, now based in Washington, D.C. I began my journey as a French-trained Master Pastry Chef and Food Artist at the young age of 18. Starting my formal training at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Austin, TX, in 2010, I specialized in Professional Baking and Patisserie. I later transferred to the Dallas campus, graduating with an associate degree in Professional Baking & Patisserie in 2017. During my time in Dallas, I joined Celebrity Chef Wolfgang Puck’s esteemed culinary team at the iconic Five Sixty by Wolfgang Puck within Reunion Tower. There, I refined my skills alongside top kitchen professionals, swiftly advancing to the role of Pastry Chef de Partie. Eager to broaden my culinary horizons, I frequently ventured to Las Vegas, captivated by its vibrant culinary landscape. My perseverance was rewarded when I secured the prestigious position of Pastry Chef de Partie at a stylish, upscale Japanese restaurant within The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. The pinnacle of my career arrived as the Pastry Sous Chef at The Cosmopolitan, overseeing significant projects and curating desserts for exclusive gatherings attended by celebrities.

Currently serving as the Executive Pastry Sous Chef at MGM National Harbor Casino in the DMV area, Chef Lyndsey Barton continues to shine. MGM National Harbor is celebrated for its opulent amenities, world-class gaming, and diverse dining choices. I take pride in crafting breathtaking chocolate showpieces, designing luxurious wedding cakes, and guiding my team of skilled pastry artists toward new realms of creativity and excellence. Each day at MGM National Harbor presents Chef Lyndsey with thrilling opportunities to innovate in the realm of pastry artistry, ensuring every guest enjoys an unforgettable culinary experience. My journey from Texas to Las Vegas and now to Washington, D.C., has been defined by unwavering passion, tireless dedication, and a steadfast commitment to culinary mastery. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth every challenge.

I was once an aspiring chef with dreams of creating culinary masterpieces and making a mark in the gastronomic world. I have transformed those dreams into reality through years of dedication, hard work, and continuous learning. My journey from a passionate novice to a skilled executive leader in the demanding culinary field has been incredibly rewarding. Today, I am proud to say that I have become an inspiration to others who share my passion for the culinary arts.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting for a week-long trip to the D.C. area, I would create an exciting itinerary showcasing the best of what the region has to offer. We’d start with a visit to The Wharf, where we’d indulge in innovative Spanish cuisine at Minibar by José Andrés and savor a luxurious dinner experience at The Inn at Little Washington, just a short drive away. These Michelin-starred spots set the stage for memorable dining experiences against the backdrop of the Potomac River.
During the day, we’d explore the vibrant waterfront of The Wharf, hopping between shops, cafes, and perhaps enjoying a boat ride along the river. For a laid-back afternoon, we’d head to Whiskey Charlie, a rooftop bar offering stunning views of the D.C. skyline, where we’d sip craft cocktails and sample delicious small plates.
Next, we’d venture to National Harbor, another must-see destination known for its upscale dining and entertainment options. Here, we’d dine at Voltaggio Brothers Steak House for a decadent meal by celebrity chefs Bryan and Michael Voltaggio. We’d also explore the shops and attractions along the waterfront, maybe catching a show at the MGM National Harbor or taking a ride on the Capital Wheel for panoramic views of the city.
Throughout the week, we’d mix in visits to iconic landmarks like the National Mall, exploring the Smithsonian museums and enjoying picnics near the Lincoln Memorial. We’d also explore the vibrant neighborhoods of D.C., sampling diverse cuisines in areas like Adams Morgan, Georgetown, and Dupont Circle. In the evenings, we’d check out the local nightlife scene, perhaps catching live music at a cozy bar or dancing the night away at a trendy club.
This itinerary would blend relaxation, culture, and culinary delights, ensuring my friend experiences the best of D.C. and its surrounding areas during their visit.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate my Shoutout to My Son, “Little AJ” Anthony J. Powell Jr. My baby boy is incredibly important to me because he is not only my child but also my greatest source of joy, pride, and unconditional love. My 2-year-old son, who is incredibly smart and talented, is my greatest source of motivation. I am inspired by his curiosity, creativity, and boundless energy daily. Watching him explore the world with wide-eyed wonder reminds me of the importance of pursuing my passions with the same enthusiasm. His innate intelligence and talent encourage me to continue striving for excellence in my career, knowing that I am setting a foundation for his future. I work hard to be a great example for him, demonstrating the values of dedication, perseverance, and integrity in everything I do. I want him to see that success comes from hard work and a deep commitment to one’s goals. Whether I’m creating new dishes, managing a kitchen, or leading a team, I am mindful that my actions and attitudes serve as a blueprint for him. My hope is that by witnessing my efforts, he will grow up understanding the importance of following his dreams, no matter how challenging they may be. Balancing my demanding career with being a present and attentive parent can be tough, but knowing that I am shaping the person he will become makes every effort worthwhile. His laughter, achievements, and even the smallest milestones fuel my drive to succeed and be my best role model. Ultimately, my goal is to provide him with a secure and loving environment and a legacy of passion and resilience that he can carry with him throughout his life.

I am deeply grateful and appreciative of my family, especially my parents, for their unwavering support as I pursue my career as an executive leader in the demanding culinary field. Their belief in my dreams and their constant encouragement have been my greatest sources of strength and motivation. From my earliest days experimenting in the kitchen to the long hours and intense pressures of the professional culinary world, their faith in my abilities has never wavered. My parents instilled in me the values of hard work, resilience, and passion, which have been the cornerstone of my success. Their sacrifices and understanding have allowed me to dedicate myself fully to my craft; I am eternally thankful for that. Without their love and support, I would not be where I am today, and I am committed to making them proud every step of the way.

Website: https://linktr.ee/LyndseyBarton

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/idesign.food/

Other: https://canvasrebel.com/meet-lyndsey-barton/

Image Credits
Samuel Barksdale with Unique Vision
Barton Street Photography