Chatter and Dish - Don’t Ask That!
The reactions we get when people first learn that we are chefs run the gamut. Sometimes we get expected responses, but other times we hear crazy questions and comments! Today, our chefs are discussing what questions we love to answer and what questions we really wish you’d stop asking!
What was your favorite question you’ve ever been asked?
Can you show me how to do this?
What made you become a chef?
Anything that inspired dialogue on techniques and desserts from around the world.
Can I be your taste tester?
Our polite answer: *Friendly chuckle “Sure, I’ll let you know the next time I have leftovers!”
What we’d like to say instead: “You think you’re qualified, really?” “If I need you, I’ll let you know. Otherwise, it’s pointless from a business/critique standpoint, unless said person knows what they need to be tasting for!” Sorry, not sorry!
So, why aren’t you 400 lbs?
Our polite answer: *Nervous chuckle “Everything in moderation and I really enjoy [insert workout here].”
What we’d like to say instead: “My body type has nothing to do with my cooking abilities. Why do you think ‘I’m a chef’ is an invitation to comment on my body?” “Also, working in a kitchen is hard work. We are constantly weight lifting and cardio crushing in a room that’s warmer than a hot yoga studio. And we’re too busy to sit down for real meals; we just take a couple bites of whatever’s in reach to keep us going until service is over.” “Some chefs are overweight; are you comfortable asking them about their body type?”
Do you make fancy meals for yourself every night?
Our polite answer: *Exhausted laugh “I wish! But, at least cooking for special occasions is always fun!”
The truth: “I don’t get home from work until after midnight, I’m not making a fancy meal for myself! After cooking for dozens or hundreds of people all day long, cooking for one to two people feels so insignificant.” “The most common meals you’ll see a chef make at home are simple, nostalgic comfort foods, or something they never make at work.” “Also, we can’t afford to buy expensive ingredients to make fancy meals at home all the time.”
“Oh I could NEVER be a chef, I’m horrible at cooking/baking!”
Not everybody needs to be an expert! If you love the food that you cook for yourself then you are winning! Believe in yourself, manifest positive energy around yourself every time you are in the kitchen, and keep trying new things! As long as you have fun and create something edible, you have something to be proud of!
