Being a Chef is Like Being a QB

I look at being a Chef like being the starting QB. You have to think quick on your feet. Like a QB when he comes to the line and doesn’t like the defence he sees… In a split second the QB makes a call. He makes sure everyone is where they’re supposed to be. The same thing goes for a Chef. A Chef has to make sure his strongest cooks are working the right stations. A chef makes split second menu adjustments when the product doesn’t arrive or, what does arrive, isn’t up to his standards. A Chef pivots, makes calls, and makes it happen. I remember one private dinner in the French Quarters in New Orleans at an AirBnb. When I got to the AirBnb – I looked around and realize – they didn’t have a stove or oven. Talk about a WTH moment! But, like a QB, I didn’t panic. There was a Creole restaurant next door. I ran over and explained what was going on. The Chef could totally understand. He gave me a little corner and one burner on the stove. That’s all I needed. And you know what? I put out an amazing meal. Being a Chef carries a lot of responsibility. If you want to be a Chef, you need to make sure you’re up to the challenge. Because every day brings one.