I'd like to thank everyone for their thoughts and points of view. I hope that other people who are in a similar situation as my find this discussion as helpful and thought provoking as I have. It's wonderful to have the insight of so many who have been down this path and can offer their perspective!
It goes without saying that I have a new found respect for the men and women in the kitchen (and the FOH) who prepare my meals at a restaurant. Never before have I have as good a view on what sacrifices they've made, personally and professionally, than I do now. Reading and wondering about my own culinary career has done that, so thank you all!
__________________ "Honey, is something burning?" - my wife  |