Chef Eric's Story
It is a story of passions; passion for cooking, passion for traveling, and a passion for teaching.I was ten years old when I decided to become a Chef. I knew even then that it would be the career I would pursue. As soon as I could (6 years later), I started my apprenticeship in Pau, France.
Hotel Cap Estel - France
My early experiences took me to various ski and seaside resorts in Europe (Corsica, Geneva, French Riviera, French Alps.).
I climbed the levels of kitchen hierarchy to finally attain the title of "Executive Chef". I was 23 when I accepted the position of Executive Chef in a deluxe hotel in the French Riviera, le Cap Estel.
My challenge was to manage a team of 14 and deliver high quality food to wealthy customers. I had the opportunity to cook for such celebrities as the Principal Family of Monaco, various pop stars, and presidents.
After 3 years, I felt that I needed a greater challenge and decided to travel overseas to Canada.I arrived in Montreal in 1993 and lived there for two and a half years. I took various positions in renowned restaurants. I learned a lot there, but felt that my destiny lay somewhere else, but where?
Vancouver was the answer to my question. I crossed the country and arrived in May 1996. But life in Vancouver was not so easy for someone who hardly spoke any English! My first job in the city was at the best French restaurant in town, "Le Crocodile". I worked there for one and a half years as second sous-Chef, cooking and improving my communication skills on the side through English classes.
Since 1997, I have been teaching French culinary arts in various locations both to future professionals and amateurs. I have also received my British Columbia Instructor's Diploma and I am working full time on www.911cheferic.com. The site is very popular with thousands of hits daily.
Chef Eric with some students
I could have started this account with "Once upon a time", as even to me my story is somewhat incredible. What were the chances that a boy, born and raised in a small provincial French city, would become a great chef and teacher in a major Canadian city? That he would go on to create a successful web site and an e-learning cooking school, promoting the art of French cuisine all over the world? I still remember the English teacher who told me that I would never be able to speak English!
Oh really? Not only do I speak English, but I also teach in English, and do business in English. I love the fact that I can communicate successfully in English.
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