My journey to this moment has been an incredible experience that I would love to share with you through my practice of cooking, creating and connecting. Over the last twenty years I have had the incredible privilege of working in top restaurants along side some amazing humans and noteworthy celebrity chefs.

While it was so illuminating to be mentored by these inspiring figures, it was in the darkness where I found myself. In so many of the kitchens I trained in, I began to notice a golden thread that weaved through all of them. Fear. Anxiety. Stress. Anger. Hate. The romantic ideals of the humble chef were nowhere to be found. Ego driven, wounded, toxic personalities and oppressive environments were the norm. The sole motivation every day was don’t slow down, don’t fuck up, don’t have any feelings. Disconnected from myself, my heart and my dreams, I internalized the abuse handed down to me. Eventually I became the abuser and I hated myself even more.

As it relates to the world, this is what goes into the food we have so deeply commoditized. These toxic energies and emotions are often at the top of the ingredient list. Maybe you cant taste it but you can feel it. Why does that bowl of soup from a loved one taste so good? It probably even came from a can, but it was made with LOVE! Gently stirred and infused with healing energy.

This was my light bulb moment and the beginning of a great awakening. A return to innocence and simplicity. I dont need to convolute or contrive the food I prepare. I let it speak for itself and I only add the LOVE. I keep myself grounded and present so I can keep the food pure and untainted.

In this era, I cook from my heart, with love, and with the intention of nourishing. I cook to bring people together, and closer to themselves. I value experience above all else, over consumption and the image it projects. I aim to serve, support, and of course, satisfy.

I hope to connect more deeply to bring my LOVE to anyone who needs it.

Gabriel

Spirit Chef