8 answers
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Palo Alto, California
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Am I too old to become a great chef?
I graduated from United Electronics Inst. in 1973 and have spent years working in various trades-related jobs. I want to be the best cook in the world, like another Ramsey but nicer. Can you help lead me?????
Note: this question was asked anonymously by a learner
8 answers
Michael Bronson
Executive Chef
3
Answers
Los Gatos, California
Updated
Michael’s Answer
You can become a good cook at any age. It all depends on how much time and effort you put into it and how well your pallet is. But remember your cooking for your clientele so don’t have such a big ego that you think no one can judge or criticize you. We often learn from our mistakes. Our pallet is not the end of all ends, you have to know what brings people back for the tastes you create.
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1179
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, CVOH !
Your career choice sounds very creative and exciting and no, you are not too old to become a professional chef, definitely not. Your account says that you are a student and I am wondering if you have already enrolled in Culinary School. If not, that would be a suggestion I would make. If you are, you're off to a great start !
You already have a wealth of career experience and that is something in your favor that you will bring to your culinary education as well as any employment or self-employment you may consider. Once you have learned your craft, there are options open to you and hopefully you have made valuable contacts through networking at culinary school that can help things along.
You can start preparing your culinary resume now for when you are ready to apply for work and be sure to update your resume with every project, job and education that you have.
Part of your inquiry does sound like you are very interested in fame and notoriety and that is not something that I can advise on. Those things happen differently in different ways for people, so all you can do is make sure you do a lot of networking that will bring you in contact with good opportunities. Just like many of the Arts professions, culinary is an opinion field of work, although there are established guidelines for food preparation and it has to look and taste good. But not everyone may prefer the type of food you prepare. Is the food the star, or is the chef the star ? I think you can answer that. And just because the chef is a celebrity doesn't mean everyone will like their food. So the question really is, how did Chefs suddenly become TV Stars and famous ? (And yes, I know who Graham Kerr was, he's still alive at 89).I think that there are even at least three food channels that I know of and probably more. I've left links below for articles about how famous chefs got their start and steps to take if you want to attain the status of your favorite celebrity chef.
Make a list of your goals for your career. Decide if it is that you want to make an income in the food industry or if you are aiming for star status. For the later, I would consult an in-person career advisor. Your age is not an issue, but celebrity chefs don't happen overnight or without knowing the right connections and networking communities.
A good idea for you would be to start a You Tube Channel where you can have your own food show and promote your channel everywhere. You can be a self-starter at any age ! And who knows, you may even be discovered !
I wish you all the best in your next steps towards a career that you will love !
FAMOUS CHEFS AND HOW THEY GOT STARTED https://spoonuniversity.com/lifestyle/how-your-favorite-famous-chefs-began-their-careers
HOW TO BECOME A CELEBRITY CHEF https://www.careeraddict.com/become-a-celebrity-chef
Your career choice sounds very creative and exciting and no, you are not too old to become a professional chef, definitely not. Your account says that you are a student and I am wondering if you have already enrolled in Culinary School. If not, that would be a suggestion I would make. If you are, you're off to a great start !
You already have a wealth of career experience and that is something in your favor that you will bring to your culinary education as well as any employment or self-employment you may consider. Once you have learned your craft, there are options open to you and hopefully you have made valuable contacts through networking at culinary school that can help things along.
You can start preparing your culinary resume now for when you are ready to apply for work and be sure to update your resume with every project, job and education that you have.
Part of your inquiry does sound like you are very interested in fame and notoriety and that is not something that I can advise on. Those things happen differently in different ways for people, so all you can do is make sure you do a lot of networking that will bring you in contact with good opportunities. Just like many of the Arts professions, culinary is an opinion field of work, although there are established guidelines for food preparation and it has to look and taste good. But not everyone may prefer the type of food you prepare. Is the food the star, or is the chef the star ? I think you can answer that. And just because the chef is a celebrity doesn't mean everyone will like their food. So the question really is, how did Chefs suddenly become TV Stars and famous ? (And yes, I know who Graham Kerr was, he's still alive at 89).I think that there are even at least three food channels that I know of and probably more. I've left links below for articles about how famous chefs got their start and steps to take if you want to attain the status of your favorite celebrity chef.
Make a list of your goals for your career. Decide if it is that you want to make an income in the food industry or if you are aiming for star status. For the later, I would consult an in-person career advisor. Your age is not an issue, but celebrity chefs don't happen overnight or without knowing the right connections and networking communities.
A good idea for you would be to start a You Tube Channel where you can have your own food show and promote your channel everywhere. You can be a self-starter at any age ! And who knows, you may even be discovered !
I wish you all the best in your next steps towards a career that you will love !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Fernando Guain
Executive Chef
1
Answer
Lisbon, Portugal
Updated
Fernando’s Answer
It is never too late to become a chef. But remember, a chef will always be a linecook. It’s not hard to start as a cook, my suggestion is for you to go to a restaurant and ask for a kitchen job. Stay there for a whole year. If you like it than you should go for a culinary school
Jocelyn Wood
Culinary food, Stylist
1
Answer
West Chester, Pennsylvania
Updated
Jocelyn’s Answer
You can become an amazing chef at any age! My biggest suggestion would be to head over to the library and start to study the greats! Reading, and researching chefs in the history of cuisine is a great start. You can look up numerous videos on YouTube on cooking techniques. Heading to a culinary-based schooling program will help refine your skills and give you the education that you need to succeed in the industry.
Reading and research
Culinary classes for non-degree
Enroll in a culinary arts program
Jocelyn recommends the following next steps:
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
500
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
NEVER too old to follow a passion and put delicious food into the world. There is a cookbook called “How To Cook Everything”. Grab it (or any other cookbook and just start cooking! Cook for friends and family and work on the basics. He may find cooking classes at local community colleges that can help you as well. If it is something you truly want to do, I encourage you to do it!
Angela A
Bank Teller/ Banker
24
Answers
Yonkers, New York
Updated
Angela’s Answer
Someone once said, "You are never too old to set a new goal or to dream a new dream.” Don't you agree? If it is your dream then you certainly must follow it.
Try to enroll in some cooking classes and even try to go to culinary school. They will teach you all about the proper techniques. There you will figure out which types of cuisines you're interested in focusing on.
If you have some family that can help you, or if you can do it yourself, start your own Youtube channel! Make different foods and experiment with new ingredients. Make videos almost every day and eventually people will start subscribing to your channel and watching your videos.
Once you become skilled at cooking, try to participate in cooking competitions. If you do well and win, that will look good for your resume or portfolio.
Practice your cooking by volunteering at local soup kitchens. They are always looking for some extra helping hands.
Good luck and wish you the best.
Try to enroll in some cooking classes and even try to go to culinary school. They will teach you all about the proper techniques. There you will figure out which types of cuisines you're interested in focusing on.
If you have some family that can help you, or if you can do it yourself, start your own Youtube channel! Make different foods and experiment with new ingredients. Make videos almost every day and eventually people will start subscribing to your channel and watching your videos.
Once you become skilled at cooking, try to participate in cooking competitions. If you do well and win, that will look good for your resume or portfolio.
Practice your cooking by volunteering at local soup kitchens. They are always looking for some extra helping hands.
Good luck and wish you the best.
Peter McCaffrey
Chef/GM
15
Answers
Napa, California
Updated
Peter’s Answer
Age is just a number! If you are passionate and committed to learning, you can do anything. You are required to be on your feet most of the time, so as long as you can do that-you should be fine. Start by working part time to test out the profession. Working for a caterer is a grate way to get exposure to the industry.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3767
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello CVOH,
Can You Pursue Culinary Excellence at a Mature Age?
The aspiration to become an exceptional chef isn't bound by age. While it's common for many accomplished chefs to embark on their culinary paths early, age isn't a barrier to chasing a career in the gastronomic arts. With commitment, enthusiasm, and diligence, you can certainly achieve culinary greatness, regardless of your age.
Overcoming Challenges and Harnessing Advantages of a Late Start
Embarking on a culinary career at a mature age may come with its set of challenges, like physical exertion, extended working hours, and fierce industry competition. However, starting later also brings its own benefits. Your life experiences, discipline, work ethics, and maturity can be powerful tools in the kitchen. These traits can aid you in overcoming culinary obstacles and distinguishing yourself as a unique and proficient chef.
Pathway to Culinary Excellence
Education: Contemplate enrolling in a culinary school or participating in cooking classes to enhance your culinary skills and knowledge. While formal education isn't always a prerequisite, it can equip you with a solid foundation and technical proficiency.
Practical Experience: Acquire hands-on experience by working in professional kitchens. Begin with entry-level roles and gradually climb the ladder to master various techniques, cuisines, and kitchen procedures.
Lifelong Learning: Maintain an inquisitive mind and stay updated on food trends, techniques, ingredients, and flavor combinations. Experiment with novel recipes and cuisines to broaden your culinary range.
Networking: Forge connections with fellow chefs, food industry professionals, and experts. Networking can pave the way for new opportunities, collaborations, and mentorship.
Creativity and Enthusiasm: Nurture your creativity and love for cooking. Develop your unique style and signature dishes that mirror your personality and gastronomic vision.
Perseverance and Resilience: The path to becoming an exceptional chef may have its highs and lows. Remain persistent, resilient, and dedicated to your goals, regardless of any obstacles or setbacks you encounter.
Conclusion
In summary, age shouldn't deter you from pursuing your dream of becoming an exceptional chef. With tenacity, hard work, lifelong learning, and a passion for cooking, you can attain success in the gastronomic world at any life stage.
Top 3 Credible Sources Utilized:
The Culinary Institute of America (CIA): The CIA is a leading global culinary college that offers invaluable insights into the culinary sector, education, and career trajectories.
James Beard Foundation: The James Beard Foundation is a prestigious organization committed to honoring chefs and advocating culinary brilliance. Their resources provide advice on professional growth in the culinary field.
National Restaurant Association (NRA): The NRA offers industry research, trends, and resources for budding chefs aiming to break into the restaurant industry or boost their culinary careers.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine.
Can You Pursue Culinary Excellence at a Mature Age?
The aspiration to become an exceptional chef isn't bound by age. While it's common for many accomplished chefs to embark on their culinary paths early, age isn't a barrier to chasing a career in the gastronomic arts. With commitment, enthusiasm, and diligence, you can certainly achieve culinary greatness, regardless of your age.
Overcoming Challenges and Harnessing Advantages of a Late Start
Embarking on a culinary career at a mature age may come with its set of challenges, like physical exertion, extended working hours, and fierce industry competition. However, starting later also brings its own benefits. Your life experiences, discipline, work ethics, and maturity can be powerful tools in the kitchen. These traits can aid you in overcoming culinary obstacles and distinguishing yourself as a unique and proficient chef.
Pathway to Culinary Excellence
Education: Contemplate enrolling in a culinary school or participating in cooking classes to enhance your culinary skills and knowledge. While formal education isn't always a prerequisite, it can equip you with a solid foundation and technical proficiency.
Practical Experience: Acquire hands-on experience by working in professional kitchens. Begin with entry-level roles and gradually climb the ladder to master various techniques, cuisines, and kitchen procedures.
Lifelong Learning: Maintain an inquisitive mind and stay updated on food trends, techniques, ingredients, and flavor combinations. Experiment with novel recipes and cuisines to broaden your culinary range.
Networking: Forge connections with fellow chefs, food industry professionals, and experts. Networking can pave the way for new opportunities, collaborations, and mentorship.
Creativity and Enthusiasm: Nurture your creativity and love for cooking. Develop your unique style and signature dishes that mirror your personality and gastronomic vision.
Perseverance and Resilience: The path to becoming an exceptional chef may have its highs and lows. Remain persistent, resilient, and dedicated to your goals, regardless of any obstacles or setbacks you encounter.
Conclusion
In summary, age shouldn't deter you from pursuing your dream of becoming an exceptional chef. With tenacity, hard work, lifelong learning, and a passion for cooking, you can attain success in the gastronomic world at any life stage.
Top 3 Credible Sources Utilized:
The Culinary Institute of America (CIA): The CIA is a leading global culinary college that offers invaluable insights into the culinary sector, education, and career trajectories.
James Beard Foundation: The James Beard Foundation is a prestigious organization committed to honoring chefs and advocating culinary brilliance. Their resources provide advice on professional growth in the culinary field.
National Restaurant Association (NRA): The NRA offers industry research, trends, and resources for budding chefs aiming to break into the restaurant industry or boost their culinary careers.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine.
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