I’ve worked in kitchens for 12 years, and “no nail polish” has always been one of the cardinal rules. So as much as I loved getting manis and pedis, I resigned myself to the fact that it wasn’t going to be a part of my life working in kitchens. Then this last year my wife Trina and I started our own pop-up and I decided that I was bringing my manicures back.
I always prided myself on being a serious chef, and there’s an assumption that if you’re a serious chef, you don’t get your nails done. Busted nails gave you street cred. Then I realized how ridiculous that was. I saw a meme recently that said, “The new model for being a serious chef is to be well-fed, well-slept, and well-hydrated.” I love that.
When you’re working in kitchens all the time, you’re hot. You’re sweaty. You’re gross. You’re usually covered in food. Looking down at my nails and having a fresh manicure makes me feel fantastic. I love wearing bold colors like