Giving chefs the chance to show the world what it's like behind the line has benefited them tremendously, even producing 'celebrity chefs' known around the world not only to foodies, but even to the commoner. However, it has also created a problem in that it seems anyone with half a brain thinks they could do what Ramsay does and run a kitchen. (Despite the aforementioned's best efforts to prove they can't on Kitchen Nightmares).
The proof, in my opinion, was most prolifically displayed this week on Food Network Canada's latest show, The Opener with David Adjey. Mr. Adjey, being a successful, talented and well respected chef in the industry, knows what it takes to open a restaurant. Unfortunately, the daddy's-boy, jock featured on the most recent episode does not have a clue.
To those who missed out on the hilarity, let me sum up the story... A university quarterback graduates business school and wants to open his own business. Jock meets lifelong maitre d' and decides to open a restaurant with his new partner. Dad gives Jock 1.5 million dollars and they begin the construction of an 'Authentic Irish Pub' in downtown Halifax neighbouring numerous other Irish pubs. Partners hire a kitchen manager with limited cooking experience to head their kitchen of ten cooks.
Now, those of you with any sense of the industry are already shaking their heads, but it gets better. The KM can't cook to save her life, is a vegetarian (with a menu highlighting lamb) and is only paid 36 grand a year. The same as the dishwasher. Adjey, can't believe it. Shocker. But, the best part is at the beginning of the episode when the Jock says to the camera crew, in all seriousness, and I'm paraphrasing here: "I wanted to open a business. A restaurant will be easy."
Why oh why do so many people think that opening a food and beverage outlet is EASY?! Large corporations with years of experience are known to fail, so what gives the average joe, fresh out of business school, the idea that the culinary world should make for an easy pay cheque?!
It doesn't and it won't. If you think you can open a restaurant with NO experience, think again. But if you decide to forgo this wisdom, please do let us know. We'd rather save out appetite for elsewhere.
*Thanks to Food Network Canada for the image.
