We show up with people who care. Throughout the year, we’re introducing you to the chefs and team members who make Upper Crust what it is—people who bring passion, skill, and genuine hospitality to their work every day.
Ask Chef Nick Aleo what he values most about working at Rutgers University, and he doesn’t talk about the food first. He talks about the people.
“The hours are amazing. I have a lot of creative freedom, and my team is very motivating,” says Nick.
That sense of connection—to his colleagues, to his craft, to the students he serves—defines how Aleo approaches his work. And it’s exactly the kind of environment Upper Crust works to create.
From Restaurant Kitchens to Chapter Houses
Aleo’s path to Upper Crust began in high school, working restaurant kitchens where he discovered that cooking was more than just a job—it was something he genuinely loved. That passion led him to pursue both associate and bachelor’s degrees in culinary arts, followed by years honing his skills in Philadelphia restaurants and with a private events touring company.
“I love working with college students,” he explains. “Younger minds keep me up-to-date with the latest trends and influence a modern take on current popular culture.”
It’s the kind of mutual learning that happens when you approach hospitality as collaboration rather than service. Students get thoughtfully prepared meals. Chefs get inspired by the communities they serve. Everyone benefits.
Creating Food Worth Remembering
While Nick has a soft spot for banana ice cream and admits bacon is his culinary weakness, his real passion lies in rustic Italian cuisine.
That philosophy fits naturally with Upper Crust’s approach. We believe food creates connection. The best meals aren’t just about what’s on the plate—they’re about the conversations that happen around it, the memories made over shared food, the sense of belonging that comes from gathering around a table.
Life Beyond the Kitchen
When he’s not creating memorable meals for Rutgers students, Aleo stays active—riding dirt bikes, playing drums, longboarding through summer days. It’s the kind of balanced life that matters to us. We want our team members energized and fulfilled, not burned out. Because people who feel taken care of show up differently for the people they serve.
The People Who Make It Happen
Great food service isn’t just about recipes and ingredients. It’s about the humans behind it—chefs who bring creativity and care to their work, team members who understand that every meal matters, people who show up consistently and do whatever it takes.
Nick represents what Upper Crust stands for: skilled professionals who find meaning in their work, build genuine relationships with the communities they serve, and understand that taking care of people goes far beyond what’s served at mealtime.
We’re fortunate to have him. And we’re excited to introduce you to more of the faces of Upper Crust throughout the year.
Want to learn more about the people who make Upper Crust different? Follow us on social media for more profiles, kitchen stories, and behind-the-scenes moments with our team.