Meet the Chefs

Dana Herbert

Chef Dana Herbert is recognized for bringing flavors and colors to life in his custom cakes and sugar artistry. Chef Herbert is known as the “Sugar Daddy” for his work with sugar artistry and as Delaware’s King of Cakes for his seven year old business.

Chef Herbert’s career began at the University of Delaware where he graduated in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science in Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Management. During his time at UD, he realized his love for the hospitality industry and decided to continue his education at Johnson and Wales University where he received a Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts and an Associate’s in Baking and Pastry Arts in 2000 and 2002 respectively. After completing his education, Chef Herbert worked for years with the Marriott at the Philadelphia Airport Marriott and later at one of the company’s flagships, the Downtown Philadelphia Marriott, where he became the head Pastry Chef. In 2006 Chef Herbert served as the Pastry Chef for the ACF National Convention in Philadelphia and had the pleasure of cooking and preparing dessert for the Chain Des Rotisseurs which is deemed the elite of the culinary world.

Desserts by Dana received the Best of Delaware Award for 2010, and Best of Bear Award for 2009 in the Wedding Supplies Category from the U.S. Local Business Association (a title which Desserts By Dana also held in 2008). Chef Herbert also released his first cookbook, Sweet and Savory Union. In 2010-2011 Chef Herbert appeared on and won TLC’s Cake Boss: Next Great Baker hosted by Buddy Valastro. Furthermore, Chef Herbert appeared on multiple networks including:
• TLC’s Ultimate Cake Off
• Wetv’s Wedding Cake Wars
• My Fair Wedding with David Tutera,
• 6ABC,
• NBC 10
• CN8

Currently, Chef Herbert operates his own custom bakery, Desserts by Dana, and also serves as the head chef at the Delaware River and Bay Authority in New Castle, Delaware. Throughout his career, Chef Herbert’s flair and creativity have been featured in various TV and internet media and multiple publications. Furthermore, he has designed cakes for Michael Vick, Dick Vermeil, Asante Samuels, Tye Tribbett, Smokin Joe Frazier, Karen Rogers-Lee of 6ABC, Governor Markel, several well-established individuals and businesses.

Many national magazines and websites featured articles on Chef Herbert’s success including:
• Cake Central Magazine
• Essence.com
• American Cake Decorating
• University of Delaware Alumni Messenger
• Johnson and Wales Alumni Magazine
• Delaware Bride
• Delaware Today