The Plate Up | Episode 6 "One Centricity Launch Dinner Party" w/ Derrick Reed

Euphoria, distress, confusion, anger, optimistic; these are the emotions I would choose to describe the two hour journey spent completing my first dinner on the west coast. “I can’t wait to finally arrive and show everyone all these cool techniques i’ve been honing in on over the past few weeks. Everyones going to be so stoked to eat this”. But also, here’s the truth of what else went through my brain “……but what if these dishes fail, what if I fail? That’s it, I still have an hour to cancel, I mean, im sure theres other food they can have catered for the events, theres time to order right?” No of course not, the time is now, lets make this happen!”.

Preparing to host and cook for independent private dinners always get’s me. I think frequently, “why do I actually put myself in this position? Do I need this in my life and why are you always biting off more then you can chew? I mean really, a video, dinner, recipes, and photos on top of your 9-5? Can you do this!?”

The simple answer to that question is… yes. Yes, I can in fact do it all. As long as I’m coming from a place of love, and true determination, everything I want in life is tangible and it can be for you too.

Dish One

Snapper Crudo - Rhubarb Agrodolce , Hazelnut Oil, Artichoke Caponata, Watercress, Asparagus.

Coming up in the food world, I was always fascinated by chefs who did these sort of events. To have the freedom to travel and cook in a various range of kitchens, each perfectly designed with memories of joy, warmth and family. This experience was something I longed for as a training chef and feel I was birthed to do.

While working as a restaurant chef, I always knew there was something more from being in a kitchen that I wanted. I love the rush feeling of a 200+ cover weekend night, but nothing quite comes close to an intimate dinning experience for a select few. It’s personal.

Seeing direct reactions as well as having the option to teach leaves me with a feeling of bliss. One that rushes throughout the body as you create a moment in time for someone else, all centered around food. It’s one of life most precious scenes and with an outcome like this, it will always be something continue to do and love.

Dish Two

Wild Mushroom Ravioli - Cauliflower Alfredo, Chanterelles, Morels , Bitter Greens, Chili Cured Egg Yolk, Parmesan, Thyme.

I guess what im saying is, get out there and do the thing. If there’s anything you want to do in this world do it! The only person holding us back from our truest potential in life is ourselves. Remember guys, love life, love what you do, and continue to do what you love, no matter how scary it may first seem at first sight.

Dish Three

Strawberry & Lime Ice Cream - Rhubarb Upside Down Cake, White Chocolate, Fennel Compote, Hazelnut Tuile.

So here it is everyone! the One Centricity “plate Up”. I put a lot into this, and I hope the raw emotion that filled the room will now fill your screens. Enjoy!