In this blog post, we delve into the fascinating culinary journey of Chef Margot Olshan. From her early love for cooking inspired by travel to her experiences as a private chef and culinary instructor, Chef Margot's story is nothing short of extraordinary. Join us as we explore her career path, her passion for food and hospitality, and the valuable lessons she has learned along the way.
A Love for Cooking and Travel
Chef Margot's culinary journey began with her love for travel. She found inspiration in exploring new places and trying new foods, which ultimately led her to the kitchen. Her first trip to Sicily, with its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, ignited her passion for cooking and set her on a path to culinary exploration.
Culinary School and Commercial Kitchens
Driven by her love for food and a desire to please people, Chef Margot decided to pursue culinary school. Despite being 35 years old at the time, she was determined to enter the world of commercial kitchens. She recognized the challenges but embraced them wholeheartedly, knowing that her drive and creativity would guide her through.
Teaching Culinary Arts
Before becoming a private chef, Chef Margot had the opportunity to teach culinary arts at Star Career Academy of New York. She found immense joy in sharing her knowledge and expertise with aspiring chefs. Her teaching experience allowed her to shape the future of culinary professionals and instill in them the importance of good teachers and a passion for hospitality.
Private Chef Work
After her teaching stint, Chef Margot ventured into private chef work. She saw it as an opportunity to have more freedom in her life and to focus on her love for cooking and teaching. She took the leap and started her own private chef business, creating a website, organizing herself, and advertising her services. Through the job board at ICE (Institute of Culinary Education), she secured a job with a prestigious client, which marked the beginning of her successful career as a private chef.
The Importance of Chemistry and Communication
Chef Margot emphasizes the significance of chemistry and communication between a private chef and their clients. It is crucial to have a good fit and understanding with the clients to ensure a successful working relationship. She believes in being a little bit in love with her clients, as it allows her to provide the best service and create a harmonious environment in the kitchen.
Challenges and Learning Curves
Private chef work comes with its own set of challenges. Each client has their own preferences and eccentricities, and it is the chef's responsibility to meet their needs and exceed their expectations. Chef Margot shares her experiences of handling demanding clients and finding ways to turn around difficult situations. She believes in owning mistakes, finding solutions, and always striving to make the clients happy.
Lessons from Martha Stewart
Chef Margot had the opportunity to work with Martha Stewart, a renowned figure in the culinary world. She describes Martha as tough, smart, and always willing to learn. Martha's honesty and directness resonated with Chef Margot, and she appreciated the opportunities and experiences she gained while working with her. The lessons learned from Martha Stewart's work ethic and attention to detail have shaped Chef Margot's approach to her own culinary career.
Reflections on Career Choices
Having experienced various aspects of the culinary industry, including teaching, owning a restaurant, and private chef work, Chef Margot reflects on her favorite roles. She highlights her love for teaching and the impact she had on her students' lives. While owning a restaurant fulfilled her dreams, she acknowledges the challenges and sacrifices it entailed. Ultimately, she finds fulfillment in her current role as a private chef, where she can focus on providing excellent service and enjoying a balanced life.
Conclusion
Chef Margot Olshan's culinary journey is a testament to her passion for food, hospitality, and teaching. From her early travels to her experiences as a private chef and culinary instructor, she has embraced the challenges and joys of the culinary world. Through her dedication, creativity, and commitment to service, Chef Margot continues to make a mark in the private chef industry. Her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring chefs and a reminder of the importance of finding fulfillment in one's culinary career.
Listen to the full interview with Chef Margot Olshan on The Private Chef Podcast.
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