20. June 2010 by Kenneth Gilbert.

On this Father’s day all I can think about is my Father, but more importantly, wishing that he was here in body. My Father passed away in 1996 from Leukemia. He was an inspiration for who I am today.

As a child I remember standing in front of the patio screen door as he started the Webber Grill and his very large custom made Drum style Smoker Grill for special occasions and Holidays. Always looking dapper and focused on his tasks to prepare the perfect meal for our family. Placing his special dry rub on the meats and warming his incredible BBQ sauce. He always knew how to put together incredible meals for us.

My Dad was an Insurance salesman for more then 40 years and he was the best at what he did. So we as a family were blessed to be a part of special dinners at high end restaurants throughout Cleveland. All of our special occasions were associated with meals at our favorite restaurants. Mine, back in the day was Red Lobster, because I loved all of the seafood. This was prior to the massive expansion as we know them today. My brother loved a restaurant called the Pacific Pearl! This was a great place because of not only the Polynesian food offerings, but also because of the entertainment as well. Limbo contests, Hula Dancers and the flame throwing/twirling shows! The experiences that my Father provided are what have shaped my palate to this day…

I specifically remember sitting at the dinner table one day awaiting a course. Once the course arrived, I proceeded to pick up my silverware to begin eating. My Dad reaches over and thumps my hand with his massive paw…He states at that time, “Use the appropriate flatware for the appropriate course”….I’m like 6 years old!!!! That has stayed with me all of the years. His life lessons have shaped and molded me to the man I am today. From conversations based on relationships, to cooking on the Grill and ultimately “How to be a good leader”…..

I love my Father so much. I know that if he was here in the flesh that he would be the proudest parent on the earth. My success as a Swimmer, Student, Chef, Adult and more importantly as a parent is because I am Carle Anthony Gilbert’s SEED. He always knew how to nurture the talent in me to be the person I am today.

So as I continue on my journey as a Son, Father, Brother, Top Chef, etc…I give the credit to my Father. If it wasn’t for his love and compassion, I may not be the person I am today….Happy Father’s Day…Daddy!

Posted in Professionals | Print | 152 Comments »

18. June 2010 by Kenneth Gilbert.

Step 1….”Today’s Preparation is Tomorrow’s Performance”…

This is one of my quotes that I use everyday. I got hooked on this quote while working at the Lodge at Sea Island. David Tolerton, my Executive Sous Chef, used to tell all of the cooks that would not get set on time…”Today’s Preparation is Tomorrow’s Performance”. The reality is that you have to come in with the mind set of having already completed your entire day from start to finish.

1. Pulling your Misenplace
2. Pulling Equipment
3. Setting up your station
4. Organizing Prep Lists..creating a list in chronological order.
5. Working items that take the longest first…ie: Butchering, Stocks, Sauce-work, etc…
6. Working on items that take least amount of time last…ie: Picking herbs, halving lemons, mincing Garlic, chopping herbs, etc…
7. Timing yourself in everything that you do….ie: Butcher a one Chicken and time yourself. If the 1st day time takes 5 minutes, then the next time set a goal time that pushes yourself to the limit while not compromising quality.
8. Execution of Service….make sure everything is organized, clean and misenplace is set.
9. Analyzing how you can do better the next day…Post service notes (the good, bad and the ugly) set goals to improve…

You will only develop speed and organization by setting goals and practicing daily.

Posted in Professionals | Print | 2335 Comments »

17. June 2010 by Kenneth Gilbert.

http://www.islandpacket.com/2010/06/16/1275053/local-chefs-brother-brings-sharp.html

Posted in Professionals | Print | 71 Comments »

17. June 2010 by Kenneth Gilbert.

http://uk.eonline.com/uberblog/watch_with_kristin/b186191_guess_which_bachelor_dwts_star_are.html

Posted in Professionals | Print | 73 Comments »

16. June 2010 by Kenneth Gilbert.

http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/tv/2010/06/16/2010-06-16_in_newest_chef_cream_rises_to_the_top.html

Posted in Professionals | Print | 75 Comments »

15. June 2010 by Kenneth Gilbert.

http://www.guesswhowins.com/Top+Chef/Kenny%20Gilbert

 As I wake up the thoughts that come to mind are simply to say, “Thank you heavenly Father for this incredible opportunity that you have provided me. I will carry these blessings and share them with others according to your word and all for your glory. I love you Father and I continue to appreciate and respect the many blessings and trials that you have placed in front of me…Amen”!

 Not that we are 1 day away from the Top Chef journey to begin in the world, I truly feel blessed and honored to be a part of the process. I have met 16 great people that will now forever be friends/brothers/sisters….I am truly happy and honored. So I simply say THANK YOU!!!!

Posted in Professionals | Print | 63 Comments »

14. June 2010 by Kenneth Gilbert.

http://www.cinemablend.com/television/Top-Chef-Preview-Season-7-In-DC-25161.html

Posted in Professionals | Print | 134 Comments »

13. June 2010 by Kenneth Gilbert.

http://www.freep.com/article/20100613/ENT03/6130309/1320/New-season-of-Top-Chef-has-a-local-ingredient

Posted in Professionals | Print | 102 Comments »

11. June 2010 by Kenneth Gilbert.

www.mollysmenu.us

Posted in Professionals | Print | 78 Comments »

10. June 2010 by Kenneth Gilbert.

http://www.bravotv.com/top-chef/photos/whos-who-meet-the-dc-chefs

http://www.bravotv.com/top-chef/videos/welcome-to-dc

Posted in Professionals | Print | 60 Comments »