Meet Ashley Gibson | Personal Chef and Chef Instructor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Gibson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, what’s the end goal, career-wise?
My ultimate professional goal is to establish myself as a skilled personal chef, dedicated to creating exceptional culinary experiences for either individuals or families. I envision crafting personalized menus that cater to unique tastes and preferences, fostering lasting connections through food. In addition to my culinary journey, I aspire for my social media presence to flourish, allowing me to share my passion with a wider audience. Looking ahead, I aim to achieve a prominent position in the culinary world, aspiring to be invited to speak on panels at prestigious events such as The Family Reunion and The Food and Wine Festival in Aspen, where I can contribute my insights and expertise to the culinary community.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career is a nice mix from my passions for both culinary arts and education. For the past eight years, I’ve had the privilege of teaching culinary arts to high school students, concurrently running my own catering company. This dual role has not only enriched my professional journey but has also given me a unique perspective on the culinary world.

During the quarantine period, I embraced the shift to virtual platforms by initiating Zoom cooking classes, a venture that has since become a regular and rewarding occurrence. Simultaneously, I embarked on cultivating a stronger social media presence. This journey, while deeply fulfilling, has not been without its challenges. At times, the enthusiasm of my students wavers, and building a substantial following on Instagram presents its own set of hurdles. There have been moments of discouragement, yet it’s in those very instances that the profound impact of my work shines through.

The magic lies in those lightbulb moments, when a student’s understanding of a culinary concept transforms into excitement and newfound knowledge. Receiving emails and texts from former students who still recreate dishes I taught them years ago serves as a testament to the lasting impact of my teachings. In regards to social media, there was one exceptional moment when a simple video featuring pasta and clams garnered unexpected viral attention, amassing 500k views. This experience reinforced my belief that even the simplest dishes can ignite passion and connection.

My journey has been marked by perseverance and a deep commitment to sharing my culinary expertise. The blend of education and culinary arts has been both challenging and immensely fulfilling. As I continue to evolve and expand my reach, my aspiration is for the world to recognize not only my dedication to fostering culinary skills but also the genuine joy I derive from connecting with people and imparting the art of cooking.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh man, this is a dope question! All I do is go out to eat though, so hopefully this friend gets that. Ha!

Ok first I would take them to eat oysters. Houston has a few nice spots, one of my faves being State of Grace. You cant beat $2 oysters on happy hour.

I would also hit up Urban Social to hear some good music and have a solid beverage.

Day two, we gotta go to brunch, I mean it’s Houston right? I think a cool spot to hit (if the weather permits) is Piggy’s. They have a DJ, a nice patio, and the menu has something for everyone. Another spot is Jun, omg! That shrimp aguachile is next level! Doesn’t hurt to have a Top Chef finalist in the city!

After brunch, ya gotta bar hop a little bit, or again, if it’s nice weather, I enjoy thrifting on Westheimer. There are so many stores to hit, and you’ll definitely walk out with something. Also, a nice stroll through Discovery Green Park is fun. They always have something going on, and if not, there’s cute bars and shops around the way.

Dinner? Well, if my friend isn’t from the south, I’d hit up Ninfa’s on Navigation, known for its Tex-Mex and fajitas. Classic spot and always consistent. After dinner, there is a cute coffee shop called Agora that stays open late, maybe for a chill nightcap.

Honorable mention, if it’s Thursday, all the museums are free, and that cannot be beat! Also, I just love Brasserie 19. They have classic brunch dishes and really fresh oysters. Also Trez Wine Bar for a good time and good wine!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to extend a heartfelt shoutout and recognition to my girlfriend, Pasley. Throughout my journey as a chef, even when we were just friends in our 20s, she has been an unwavering source of inspiration and support. In the face of challenges, especially during the pandemic, Pasley’s encouragement and belief in my abilities pushed me to new heights. In a significant and heartwarming gesture, she gifted me an LLC for Christmas, a testament to her belief in my talents and her dedication to my success. Doing that not only strengthened our bond but also solidified my commitment to my culinary aspirations. Her belief in me has been a driving force behind my growth. Pasley’s profound impact on my career journey is immeasurable, her unwavering support has truly played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of my career, and I’m incredibly grateful for her presence in my life.

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Image Credits
All me!