Cleveland pastry chef named 'Young Gun' by Eater.com

CLEVELAND - A local pastry chef has earned a spot on a distinguished culinary list. Eater.com announced its "Young Guns Class of 2012."

Matt Danko, a pastry chef at The Greenhouse Tavern and Noodlecat in Cleveland, was among 16 talented chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers (wine stewards) and hospitality industry professionals recognized nationwide.

At age 29, Danko falls in the middle of the pack. The youngest person on the list is 25, while the oldest is 32.

"Matt started at Greenhouse Tavern on the savory side of the kitchen, but has made pastry his own over the last year. He has become the dessert guy in Cleveland and beyond. He's on the cusp of serious national heat, too: his selection committee champion was none other than Marc Vetri," according to Eater.com.

Danko began his cooking career at age 13 at a pizza shop in his hometown of Northfield, Ohio. He graduated from Kent State University in 2006.

"Danko began working as a line cook with Chef Jonathon Sawyer in 2009; he was young, eager, and ready to learn. Sawyer immediately recognized his talent and abilities and after two years of dedicated hard work, Danko began creating the dessert menu at The Greenhouse Tavern. Finding inspiration in art, music, food and fashion, Danko creates desserts that are traditional & trendy, fun & formal, and absolutely delicious," according to TheGreenhouseTavern.com.

Visit Eater.com to see the complete list of "Young Guns Class of 2012."