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

Hi Louis, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
One aspect often overlooked is the meticulous planning and coordination required behind the scenes to ensure a smooth dining experience, from sourcing ingredients to timing each dish perfectly. It’s like orchestrating a symphony in the kitchen. Being a chef is the intense physical and mental demands of the job. It’s not just about cooking; it requires stamina, creativity, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations consistently.
 

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a chef, what sets me apart is the fusion of my Filipino heritage, family influences, and personal experiences into my culinary creations. I take pride in crafting dishes that not only tantalize the taste buds but also tell a story and evoke emotions. Growing up Filipino, raised by a single mom, and learning to cook from my grandmother instilled in me a deep appreciation for food’s cultural significance and the importance of family traditions.

My journey to becoming a chef was far from easy. Without the opportunity for formal culinary education, I worked three jobs to save up for culinary school. It was a challenging and exhausting path, but my passion for cooking and determination to pursue my dream kept me going. Overcoming financial hurdles and balancing multiple jobs taught me the value of hard work, resilience, and perseverance.

Throughout my career, I’ve learned to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and innovation. Each setback has fueled my determination to succeed and refine my skills. I’ve also realized the importance of staying true to my roots while continuously exploring new techniques and flavors.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that behind every dish I create lies a story of resilience, passion, and cultural heritage. My culinary journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the transformative nature of food. Through my cooking, I aim to not only delight diners’ palates but also inspire them to embrace their own unique culinary traditions and experiences.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
For a week-long trip to Los Angeles with my best friend, I’d plan an exciting itinerary that combines must-visit attractions, delicious dining experiences, and vibrant nightlife. Here’s a sample itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Day
– Start the day with breakfast at a beachside café in Santa Monica or Venice Beach.
– Spend the morning exploring the iconic Santa Monica Pier and enjoying the beach.
– Grab lunch at a seafood restaurant along the coast.
– In the afternoon, rent bikes or rollerblades and cruise along the beachside bike path.
– For dinner, head to Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice for eclectic dining options.
– End the day with drinks at a beachfront bar, watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Day 2: Hollywood and Downtown Exploration
– Begin the day with breakfast at a trendy café in West Hollywood.
– Take a guided tour of Hollywood, visiting landmarks like the Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, and Griffith Observatory.
– Enjoy lunch at a classic Hollywood diner or food truck.
– Spend the afternoon exploring the cultural attractions of Downtown LA, such as The Broad Museum and Walt Disney Concert Hall.
– Have dinner at a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city skyline.
– Experience LA’s nightlife scene with cocktails at a speakeasy or live music venue.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventure and Culinary Delights
– Start the day with a hike to the Hollywood Sign or Griffith Park for panoramic views of the city.
– Enjoy brunch at a trendy spot in Silver Lake or Los Feliz.
– Spend the afternoon exploring the diverse neighborhoods of LA, such as Little Tokyo or Koreatown, sampling international cuisine and visiting local shops.
– Take a food tour or cooking class to experience LA’s culinary scene up close.
– For dinner, indulge in a gourmet meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant or hidden gem.
– End the day with drinks at a hip rooftop bar or lounge.

Day 4: Coastal Excursion and Art Exploration
– Take a day trip to Malibu or Laguna Beach for a relaxing day by the ocean.
– Have lunch at a seaside café or seafood shack, enjoying fresh coastal cuisine.
– Visit the Getty Villa in Malibu or Laguna Art Museum to explore world-class art collections.
– Return to LA in the evening and dine at a waterfront restaurant in Marina del Rey or Manhattan Beach.
– Relax with sunset cocktails overlooking the ocean or take a leisurely stroll along the beach.

Day 5: Theme Parks and Entertainment
– Spend the day at one of LA’s famous theme parks, such as Disneyland, Universal Studios, or Six Flags Magic Mountain.
– Enjoy lunch at one of the theme park’s diverse dining options.
– In the evening, catch a live show or performance at a renowned venue like the Hollywood Bowl or Greek Theatre.
– Have dinner at a themed restaurant or upscale eatery in the area.
– Wrap up the day with dessert and drinks at a trendy dessert bar or ice cream shop.

Day 6: Shopping and Sightseeing
– Begin the day with breakfast at a charming café in Beverly Hills or Westwood.
– Spend the morning shopping along Rodeo Drive, Melrose Avenue, or The Grove.
– Visit iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, or Getty Center for photo opportunities.
– Have lunch at a celebrity hotspot or hidden gem restaurant.
– Explore the vibrant street art scene of Downtown LA or the colorful murals of the Arts District.
– Dine at a trendy restaurant in West Hollywood or Beverly Hills, indulging in gourmet cuisine and celebrity sightings.
– End the day with cocktails at a chic lounge or rooftop bar, celebrating the end of an unforgettable trip.

Day 7: Relaxation and Reflection
– Enjoy a leisurely brunch at a cozy café or brunch spot, reminiscing about the highlights of the trip.
– Spend the day relaxing at a spa or wellness retreat, indulging in massages, facials, and relaxation treatments.
– Take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway, stopping at lookout points and beach towns along the way.
– Have a farewell dinner at a romantic restaurant with ocean views, savoring the last moments of the trip.
– Reflect on the memories made during the week and plan future adventures with my best friend in The City of Angels.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
In that case, I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my grandmother Aurelia , who first sparked my passion for cooking and taught me the fundamentals in the kitchen. Additionally, I’m grateful for the unwavering support of my parents Blanca & Antonio my sister Lilo my huge Filipino family extended family, tribe, partners,my students, client’s, friends, and the love and encouragement of my girlfriend Christa, who have all played integral roles in my culinary journey. Their belief in me has been a constant source of motivation and inspiration.

Website: www.loucideatz.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loucideatz/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.instagram.com/recoverymealprep?igsh=MWQ1ZGUxMzBkMA==

Twitter: https://www.takeachef.com/en-us/chef/louis-supan2

Youtube: @loucideatz

Other: https://www.takeachef.com/en-us/chef/louis-supan2

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