Meet Chef Paul | Chef Entertainer & Public Speaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chef Paul and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chef, how do you think about risk?
Calculated risks are most often worth it. Some of my biggest accomplishments or clients, came from taking the risk and saying yes. Sometimes those opportunities don’t present themselves a second time and it’s best to be ready to take that risk. There’s a quote from Richard Branson, “If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it, say yes – then learn how to do it later!” This quote has stuck with me for years and yes it might be risky, but it most often pays off. Even when I failed from taking some risks, which I have done many times over; it was still a valuable teaching moment that would not have presented itself had I not taken that risk. Sometimes, the people who know where the edge is, are the people who have chosen to go over it: I’ve gone over many times and loved it.  

What should our readers know about your business?
I’m most proud of my journey, the ongoing journey, as I’m not quite finished travelling. Where I started as a 14 year old selling pizza at school to travelling to the far reaches of the world cooking for notable individuals or speaking to other Global culinary students coming up in the ranks. It was not easy at all and some days, I almost gave up on my dreams. Being treated poorly by clients, losing money, losing my mind, haha then finding it again all in the name of building a successful brand. To overcome the hardships, I believed in myself, my talent and training and the support of those close to me. Without them, it wouldn’t have been possible. The lessons are so many but the biggest one, I’d say, is always be true to yourself and follow your heart: which can be a lot more difficult than one might think. I’d like the world to know that my business aims to make every client feel special, to give back to the community and give 1000% into any event we say yes to. Many of my clients are now very close friends and that’s the way we operate. We are the No 1 bachelorette chef service in Fort Lauderdale and we love these kinds of events. We bring the fun and the food.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Love this. As a chef, I love going to visit other restaurants and trying what the industry has to offer. First, they must visit this little coffee cafe called, ‘Ella’s’ in Plantation, FL. Quaint and cozy with really nice coffee based beverages and a welcoming atmosphere. The Alchemist is also another fun spot to try out, then we’d go North to Morikami Gardens, a Japanese themed garden. This historical sight is peaceful and tranquil plus their little restaurant has amazing sushi. From there, we’d go east and visit one of the beaches in Boca, grab a drink one at one of the little walks in and just enjoy the view. This is challenging as there are so many places I’d want to go, think it’s best that I just list them. Robert is here fruit stand in Homestead. Knausberry farm also in homestead to get the best and freshest sticky buns you’d ever try. Schnebly Redland’s Winery & Brewery is also a good visit. On South Beach, Thai house 2, a small hole in the wall restaurant that I’ve been going to since my days in college, literally 20 years now. I like a little adventure so many take them in the Everglades, drive down to the Keys for a few days. drive to Naples and stay on Captiva Island, watch the dolphins come in, in the morning. I’m literally all over this state, there’s just so much to do. Florida has so much to see.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
This is a great question. Of the people who first come to mind, I’d have to say my wife who countlessly supported and encouraged me while I travelled for work, working long nights and on many assignments. She also keeps it 100% real which isn’t always what you want to hear but need to hear. My mother who was strict but provided the opportunities for me to build on my God given talent. Also, my tight circle of friends, many of whom are strong women who keep me in check, when need be. Haha. I could name them but they know who they are. If there was any book that changed the landscape of my mind, I’d had to say Outlier by Malcolm Gladwell. My masonic brothers keep me squared and for that I am thankful.

Website: www.chef-paul.com
Instagram: @chefpaul305
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chefpaul305/
Twitter: @chefpaul305
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Chefpaul305
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/chef-pauls-personal-chef-service-weston

Image Credits
All photos shot by me except for no 2, shot by Photographer for Le Cordon Bleu in Australia and no 6, shot by Dwayne Johnson.
The cover photo credit is Laura Bias and photo credit with the girls is Kerry MacMaster