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

Hi Chef Deb, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
The personal chef industry demands a hidden investment of time, energy, and cost to make every job seem effortless. Beyond cooking, meticulous planning, menu development, and staying current with culinary trends are crucial. It’s a profession that requires constant dedication, attention to detail, and a commitment to delivering a seamless and memorable dining experience.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I appreciate the chance to share my culinary journey, which began at the age of 6 with my very traditional grandmother teaching me how to cook. Despite initially hating it, being the only girl among six brothers meant no luxury of sleeping in. As time passed, I grew to appreciate the skills, and by 10, I proudly prepared the entire Thanksgiving dinner in 2000, a turning point for me.

I believe what sets me apart is the genuine love I have for food, a passion that runs deep. Even during a cleanse, I find solace in the grocery store, creating new dishes. Food, to me, is life—it’s nourishing and beautiful. I take pride in crafting experiences, tailoring menus to clients’ unique preferences.

My professional journey wasn’t easy, requiring a mix of passion, hard work, and continuous improvement. Advocating for myself has been crucial to prevent being taken advantage of. I’m proud that my business thrives on word of mouth, a testament to client satisfaction and genuine connections formed through my culinary art.

The joy my food brings and the trust clients place in me are sources of excitement. I’ve learned invaluable lessons—consistency, adaptability, and genuine client connections are key. Building a brand involves forging relationships, and challenges are opportunities for growth. My brand is more than food; it’s a story of love, dedication, creativity, and the pursuit of culinary excellence. I strive to create moments that linger in the hearts and palates of those who experience them. My journey is proof that with passion, hard work, and a commitment to quality, culinary dreams can become a reality.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, given our low key antisocial tendencies, I’d tailor the week-long itinerary to my best friend’s interests. We’d start with a relaxing day at the spa, perhaps at Wii Spa or Spavia in Long Beach for a rejuvenating experience. After that, we could explore some scenic hiking trails in the area, like Ocean and Canyon View Trail, combining nature with a bit of exercise.

For our dining adventures, we’d explore the local culinary scene, starting with a visit to TGI KBBQ for a mouthwatering Korean BBQ experience. We’d also dive into the world of Asian cuisine with a visit to Bao Dim Sum House, offering a variety of delectable dishes.

Since she loves sushi, a night at Sakana Sushi Lounge would be a must, savoring fresh and creative rolls. To balance the tranquility, we’d spend a lazy day at the beach, perhaps Huntington Beach, soaking up the sun and sea breeze.

To wrap up the week, I’d plan a cozy night in with takeout from Sushi Stop and a movie marathon. The goal is to create a memorable experience that caters to her interests while still keeping things low-key and enjoyable. After all, the best time is one that aligns with the things we love.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of my clients, family and friends. My journey to where I am today is indebted to your unwavering love, support, and continuous encouragement for my culinary endeavors. As my business thrives on word of mouth and is deeply personal to me, I genuinely value everyone who has savored my dishes, recommended them to others, and shared the experience. Your actions do not go unnoticed, and I cherish each instance when someone has spoken highly of my food or recommended me as a chef. Your contributions have a profound impact, and I take them to heart every single time.

Website: www.chefdebo.com

Instagram: chefdeb.o and deb.o

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.