Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Gibson.
Hi Ashley, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
My culinary career began early on, inspired by my southern family and their love and respect for quality food and tradition. After graduating from Howard University, I attended the Texas Culinary Academy to further develop my love for cooking.
My culinary repertoire flourished as a cook under Chef Mark Holley (Executive Chef of Davis St. Café) at Pesce Restaurant, followed by working for Pappas Restaurants, where I served as kitchen manager for their famous Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen. It was there where I extended my skills to all aspects of the restaurant. After spending a few years at that high-level hustle and bustle, I wanted a change. I love the industry, and as a daughter of two educators, I made the decision to become a culinary arts teacher and found my spot at Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD.
I wake up every day inspiring students. I get them excited about learning and understanding the future of the world through the food they eat, cook, and enjoy. I feel I have a crucial role in training the chefs of the future.
In 2017, I started Hilltop Catering. I have had the pleasure of working with Travis Scott to open his Space Café in Rice Village. I also worked alongside the Smollett family: Jake Smollett (Chef), Jurnee Smollett (Actress: Eve’s Bayou, The Great Debaters, Love Craft Country), Jussie Smollett (Actor: Empire), and Jazz Smollett for the release of their family cookbook: The Family Table. Led by Chef Jake Smollett, I was able to travel to different cities to cook recipes from their book. I hosted and taught cooking classes with an ensemble of New York’s senators and council members. In 2020, I won Teacher of the Year for Eisenhower High School and was able to cater the engagement soiree for the daughter of Eisenhower alum, Mayor Sylvester Turner.
To remain quick on my feet, I work a few pop-ups with Chef Michelle Wallace (James Beard Top 20 Chef). It’s fun to stay on top of trends and remain active in the industry; plus supporting Black female-owned businesses is a top priority of mine! I like to say, “Food makes people happy, and good food makes people really happy!” There aren’t many other jobs where you get to do that every day. It’s awesome to hear folks say they love the food you cook. It helps people celebrate their birthdays, anniversaries, and some fall in love while sharing a plate of what I created. A plate of food may be small, but it can play a huge part in people’s lives.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Facing challenges is a normal part of the entrepreneurial journey.
In the beginning, I had limited resources, like a small team aka myself! Working with fewer people to share the workload, time management became critical to ensure all of my tasks were completed. Allocating time effectively amongst different tasks was challenging. My job as a teacher comes first, so yeah, it took some getting used to!
I think by staying adaptable, seeking guidance when needed, and persistently pursuing my goals, I’ve overcome a few obstacles and grown as an entrepreneur.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a chef and culinary arts instructor. I think my specialty has transcended into teacher first now that I have been in the education field for eight years and taught not just children but adults too.
I am most proud of my ability to connect with others through food. I know there’s tons of knowledge out there and it needs to be shared. I think that’s why I enjoy teaching so much…things I’ve learned over the years that I think are common knowledge; it truly blows people’s mind! It’s like a million light bulbs go off, and it gives me so much joy to teach!
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
This might be crazy, and some folks might come after me for saying it, but I believe anyone wanting to get into the industry should simply do that…GET IN THE INDUSTRY! Nothing will prepare you for working in a restaurant like working in a restaurant. Culinary school is awesome, don’t get me wrong, and getting your education is something that no one can ever take away. I think future chefs can get the best of both worlds – the science in school and the experience at the big show.
Pricing:
- Max amount of ppl for any event – 30
- Styles of service – passed, buffet/family style/plated
- Private Dinners start at $125/pp for three courses
- Menus are a client by client basis (I like to give people choices!)
Contact Info:
- Instagram: hilltophtx
- Linkedin: Chef Ashley Gibson
- Other: TikTok – hilltophtx
