Darin Gagner began his culinary adventure more than two decades ago, as a way to escape from his small Eastern Washington town to the big city. He worked at lobster shacks, pizza joints, fine dining restaurants, and landmark hotels, seeking out as many experiences as possible, from coast to coast. Along the way, he was lucky enough to work with outstanding chefs that helped him become an excellent teacher and cook.

Darin now owns Valley Sharp, a roving knife sharpening business in the Puget Sound area. He eventually made his way back to small town life, and now lives in Cle Elum with his wife and young sons. He spends his time raising chickens and pigs, hunting and fishing in the endless woods, enjoying craft beer, and slowly turning into his dad.