This month’s chef’s spotlight is dedicated to Emile Newcomb. She is a personal chef and Friend in Chicago
In her own words.
I’ve been working in restaurants since I was 16, starting as a hostess. Over time, I realized that I wanted to be involved in the kitchen. In December 2016, I graduated from Kendall College with a degree in Culinary Arts.
During culinary school, I abandoned any hope for a normal sleep schedule, and worked in the private dining kitchen at Spiaggia. After that, I became a line cook at a Korean restaurant called BellyQ, and then became a chef instructor at Cooking Fools. Teaching cooking classes made me realize that I really enjoyed the type of job that allows me to work with people, as well as food. And then I discovered Friend That Cooks! It’s extremely rewarding to allow myself creative freedom, as well as being able to receive direct feedback from my clients.
When I’m not cooking, I’m still gravitating towards food. I am constantly canning, fermenting, pickling, you name it. Not to brag, but my kombucha is off the chain! (I will happily share upon request.)
In my spare time, I enjoy discovering new restaurants to get inspired with new ideas for my clients. I love the diverse food scene in Chicago. It almost makes up for the cold weather!