Join thousands of other listeners on our Substack, The Foodletter!   In this episode of That Was Delicious, Brooke sits down with Dean Sheremet—professional chef, former professional dancer, and bestselling author—to discuss his fascinating career journey. Dean shares how he transitioned from the world of dance to the high-stakes environment of Michelin-starred kitchens, detailing the lessons he learned along the way. He also delves into his passion for food, his grandmother’s culinary influence, and his latest role in bringing the celebrated New York restaurant, Marea, to Beverly Hills. This episode is packed with insights about perseverance, reinvention, and the evolving world of fine dining.   Key Takeaways

• [03:08] Following Passion Can Lead to Unexpected Places: Dean’s career took a major pivot from dance to culinary arts, showing that it's okay to take unexpected turns in life.
• [14:46] The Importance of Adaptability: From his early days cooking with his grandmother to his time in Michelin-starred kitchens, Dean emphasizes the ability to learn, pivot, and grow in any field.
• [23:03] Learning the Ropes in Michelin-Starred Restaurants: Dean shares the intensity of working in world-class kitchens like Nobu and Jean-Georges, where speed, discipline, and teamwork are critical.
• [30:41] The Michelin Guide: Flaws and Merits: Dean discusses the impact of Michelin-star ratings on chefs and the restaurant industry, sharing his insider perspective.
• [34:59] Why the Best Restaurant Isn’t Always the Favorite: He highlights the difference between being "the best" and being a guest’s favorite—a philosophy he carries into his work with Marea.
• [39:50] Behind the Scenes of Fine Dining: A glimpse into what it takes to run a high-end restaurant, from managing labor and food costs to creating unforgettable guest experiences.

  Notable Quotes

• (35:1.) “We don’t need to be the best restaurant; we want to be your favorite restaurant.” – A guiding principle for Marea that prioritizes connection over perfection.
• (15:49) “The things you struggle to achieve end up becoming your norm, and then you stop appreciating them.” – On the fleeting nature of success and why true fulfillment comes from within.

  Resources

• Get a copy of Dean’s cookbook, Eat Your Heart Out
• Subscribe to Dean on Substack
• Follow Dean Sheremet on Tiktok
• Follow Dean Sheremet on Instagram
• Follow Female Foodie on Instagram