User:ReVeluv02/sandbox/Benjamin Epicure

Benjamin Epicure (born April 9, 1983) is an American chef. He operates a four-storey French chalet exclusive stay named The Chamber House and the exclusive chef of Smithmore Castle.

Early life
Benjamin Epicure was born in Iraq of Assyrian-Chaldean descent. In the early 1990s, he and his family moved to the United States and settled in California. In an interview with Chef Uniforms, Epicure revealed that he didn't always want to be a chef, that food was not his passion, and that his interest in cooking was "nonexistent". He stated that he suffered from depression and "triggering levels" of anxiety and was in a different job with a "toxic" environment. Epicure then ended up at a Korean market and bought a quail, a rabbit, an octopus, and a Japanese parrot fish, along with various garnishes, despite not having any knowledge and technique in cooking. When he got home, he stated that he was in a "trance" and had a "heightened" sense of mindfulness, seizing his "calm" state of being. Despite not having any recipes or training, he was able to create "high-end" gourmet dishes. Epicure got into his current career as he stated that nothing gave him more satisfaction rather than communicating without the use of words as he left all his feelings, thoughts, and aspirations on the plate for one to comprehend. He also revealed that his parents and siblings were his role models as they taught him drive, ambition, perseverance, and values.

Career
Epicure is a Michelin star-trained chef specializing in French, Italian and Japanese cuisine, with experience in cake and pastry making. He inherited his fondness for cooking and his "ever-evolving" seasonal menus showcasing his associations with the local farmers, the fishermen, and the artisanal producers and has catered to over 5,000 events and weddings. He operates a "high-end" French chalet in San Diego, The Chamber House, offering breakfast and dinner, along with personal cooking classes. He is also a private gourmet travel chef. Smithmore Castle is currently under the management of Benjamin Epicure who tours guests on the estate, runs the kitchen, and oversees the marketing of the hotel. He and his wife, a concierge lead, operate the hotel and are under contract for the next several years. Additionally, he is a food consultant who provides dietary advice for weight loss and "healthy" living.