Food, like music, is a part of culture. It nourishes bodies and feeds souls. Fortunately, there are plenty of talented chefs in the Nashville region who create many, varied meals to enjoy.
While in college, Deb Paquette says she was trying to figure out what she wanted to do with her life. When she came across information about the Culinary Institute of America, she knew instantly what that was. “My heart rate boomed as I pictured myself as a chef on a ship, hotel or even a four-star restaurant,” she says.
After graduating from the institute, her first job was in a macrobiotic restaurant in New York City. “My mom managed a health food store, so our family was on top of taking our vitamins and eating carob cookies,” she says. After a year, she moved home to Florida to attend Florida International University and earned a management degree. “I finished school and found my way to Nashville in 1982. I accepted a job as banquet chef at the Hyatt Regency. Yes, I was on my way!”
Deb became the first woman in Tennessee to qualify as a certified executive chef, and has since won countless awards and accolades.
Food, she says, can be both simple and complex. “I love the diversity. I love that I have the ability to inspire guests to reverse their fears of trying new foods. I love how condiments, herbs, spices, salt and sugar can change one simple carrot into a piece of art. So many different species of fruits and veggies have been brought back to our tables. Education and the science of food has made a huge difference in our decisions of meal planning. The food world is unstoppable.”
Today, she oversees the kitchen at etch, a globally-inspired restaurant located in Nashville, as well as its sister restaurant, etc. “We like to challenge the palate,” says Deb. “We also have incredible service and a great location. Quality food, service and atmosphere are the three keys to a happy restaurant.”
While being a chef is hard work, she does have advice for those looking to follow in her footsteps. “Balancing kitchen life with home life may be difficult. Long hours can be necessary, but make time to spend with your family and friends. They are your greatest supporters!”
“We like to challenge the palate. We also have incredible service and a great location. Quality food, service and atmosphere are the three keys to a happy restaurant.” ~Chef Deb Paquette
