So You Think You Want To be A Chef

I hear it all the time. So many people think being a chef is living the glamorous life. They think being a chef is so easy. Little do they know they could not be further from the truth. The life of a chef is filled with many long hours, complete with nights, weekends and holidays. The chef and kitchen staff work while everyone else plays. I tell everyone who dreams of this “glamorous” chef’s life to rethink their plans. It has be something you have a true passion for because it is NOT what most people think. You either have it or you don’t, but once that burning passion is inside you, it will always be there too.

Here are some real-life behind the doors looks at life in a professional kitchen. It is NOT for the weak or faint-hearted.

Most of my days in the kitchen were a minimum of 12 hour days. I would go home exhausted, and then would get up early and do it all over again the next day. Personal time is non-existent.

To be a good chef, you need to be humble.

This is if you are lucky enough to sit down. Most of the time, you get a bite or two while on the run.

There will be burns and cuts, and plenty of them too. I cannot tell you how many of each I have had, and a few of them landed me in the ER too. But as soon as I was released, I went right back into the kitchen for more.

Do you still think a chef’s life is filled with glamour? Think again. It is done out of love. It is filled with passion. It is a calling.

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Author: ajeanneinthekitchen

I have worked in the restaurant and catering industry for over 35 years. I attended 2 culinary schools in Southern California, and have a degree in culinary arts from the Southern California School of Culinary Arts, as well as a few other degrees in other areas. I love to cook and I love to feed people.

14 thoughts on “So You Think You Want To be A Chef”

      1. I kid around when my friends tell me I should open a restaurant. My response is…”As long as there’s no more than 6 people and they all eat the same thing, I’m fine!” 🤣🍃😜

        Liked by 2 people

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