Today we’d like to introduce you to Evelyn Garcia.
Evelyn, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Evelyn was born and raised in Houston, Texas. Her interest in the culinary field began at a young age. As the eldest of three siblings, she would cook for her younger brother and sister while her parents worked. During her senior year in high school, she joined the school district Culinary Academy, where she excelled.
After graduation, she traveled to New York and attended the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park. During her time at the CIA, she had the opportunity to travel and stage throughout Asia. During this trip she finally understood what her culinary aspiration entailed. Garcia graduated from the CIA in 2010 with a Bachelors degree.
She got her first line cook job at Spice Market by Jean Georges, emphasizing on South East Asian cuisine, she fully indulged in everything Spice Market had to offer, while working under Chef Anthony Ricco.
After leaving Spice Market in 2011, she traveled to India for some time. Once back in New York City, she took a job at Masak, Singaporean focused restaurant with Chef Larry Reutens. After working at Masak for over a year, Evelyn, felt it was her time and pursued a sous chef position.
She joined Kin Shop as the Sous Chef, under Chef Harold Dieterele, at the end of 2012 till the end of 2014. While at Kin Shop, she was able to participate on Food Networks Chopped where she was announced Chopped Champion in the episode title “All Burger Meal”.
After leaving Kin Shop, she decided to take two months off to travel throughout South East Asia and stage at some of the best restaurants in Thailand.
Evelyn, once again calls Houston, Texas home and has yet wavered in her goals, passion, and creativity for the culinary world. She is currently hosting a pop up series in Houston and the surrounding areas.
Has it been a smooth road?
Nothing in life is easy but I appreciate the obstacles I’ve had to overcome to get me to where I am today. No matter how small or big, it’s all part of a bigger picture.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I am a local food pop up, specializing in Southeast Asian Inspired Cuisine and I was part of Food Networks Chopped and crowned Chopped Champion in 2014 (people really get excited over that one).
What I’m most proud of, is being able to not only showcase what I’ve learned through my years in the industry. But showcase what Houston has to offer and what we stand for. We are a melting pot of cultures with great agriculture and being able to work close with farmers and local entrepreneurs and give them a platform as well, makes me very proud.
I believe that the passion for what I do is very visible not only in my dishes but also in my service. I love to talk and educate those interested in Southeast Asian Cuisine. I believe that this is what truly sets me apart.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
I believe Houston is a great city especially for food. I feel that right now is the time for the Houston food scene, we are finally seeing national recognition.
And for someone starting their business as well. Because I’m doing it myself as we speak. It’s been about 1 year and a half since I’ve moved back and I’m very happy to see my groth. Houston received me with open arms. For instance, Adam Brackman from Axelrad, gave me my first platform as a pop up in Houston and a new one at that, I had only been back for a month but I came with a plan in mind and he gave me a shot. I believe that Houston appreciates those pushing boundaries and new ideas.
Contact Info:
- Website: egdinners.com
- Instagram: chefevy
- Facebook: Pop Up’s by Chef Evelyn
- Twitter: chefevy
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
