What better reason to start a blog than to help one of our favorite chefs search for an intern to work in his new Dallas restaurant? For those of you who are not familiar with Chef2Chef columnist Chef David Gilbert, he lives in Dallas, is a rising star in the culinary world, and writes one of Chef2Chef’s most popular features, “In the Fire.” In recent articles, Gilbert has discussed the steps that go into creating a new dish, his foray into “green cuisine,” the essential elements for opening a new restaurant successfully. Gilbert’s most recent article chronicles the exhaustive “research and development” he completed during a trip to New York City. If only my job entailed nibbling my way through New York City!

To read Gilbert’s full biography, visit his Chef of the Month page.

Like any great chef, Gilbert wants to pass along his love and passion for food to others. So what is Chef Gilbert looking for in an intern?

The experience I provide all interns is a very hands-on and real-life experience in the industry. I spend a considerable amount of time in grooming [interns] in leadership, organization, and practical cooking. My philosophy has always been what you put in, is what you will get out. That is why I seek out the most committed students who understand culinary is a true craft, and, like anything you strive to be the best at, it takes a lot of work!”

An aspiring chef couldn’t ask for a better training ground. Chef Gilbert’s interns have gone on to some very successful gigs:

…I have always felt it is my responsibility to make sure they achieve their goals. My past interns have gone on to:

  • Work overseas in Asia at the Peninsula Hotel
  • Relocate to Paris to work at a 2 Michelin Star
  • Move to other cities to work in fine dining restaurants (NY, Chicago, LA, and Atlanta)
  • Go back to school for a nutrition degree to work with the Carolina Panthers in their meal nutrition program for the players

A few have chosen to stay with me for a longer period of time. They all have one thing in common–they keep in touch with me and at some point every one of them has called me to say “remember that time when you told me…. it just happened… I get it now!” They also call me for guidance (just like I do my mentors).”

So if you’re a culinary school student or recent culinary school graduate, and think you have what it takes to work for a demanding, but innovative chef, you can apply for Chef David Gilbert’s internship here.  The deadline to apply is October 31st, 2008.

On the Line will be bringing you more news about Chef Gilbert, his intern search, and other culinary news in the coming weeks. While you’re here, you should join our community of chefs (both aspiring and professional) and browse through our recipe center.

Cin cin!