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Chef Choi Kang-rok Explains Why He Avoids 'Fine Dining': 'Evaluated Restaurants Make Minds Sick'
๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท South Korea /Culture & Society

Chef Choi Kang-rok Explains Why He Avoids 'Fine Dining': 'Evaluated Restaurants Make Minds Sick'

From Chosun Ilbo · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Chef Choi Kang-rok appeared on the MBC entertainment show 'Nolto-coaster' and discussed his approach to running a restaurant.
  • He revealed he does not operate a 'fine dining' establishment, explaining that restaurants constantly being evaluated lead to mental distress for chefs.
  • Choi expressed a desire to cook for people without the pressure of external judgment.

Chef Choi Kang-rok, known for his culinary skills, appeared on the MBC entertainment program 'Nolto-coaster' and shared candid thoughts on his restaurant operations. During the broadcast, Choi prepared a meal for co-hosts Noh Hong-chul, Pani Bottle, and Go Kyung-pyo, demonstrating his expertise in the kitchen.

When the conversation turned to his restaurant, Choi revealed that he intentionally avoids running a 'fine dining' establishment. He explained his reasoning, stating that restaurants constantly under evaluation can take a significant mental toll on chefs. The pressure to meet external expectations and ratings, he suggested, can be detrimental to a chef's well-being.

Choi expressed a desire to cook for people in a more relaxed environment, free from the constant scrutiny and judgment associated with high-profile dining. His appearance on 'Nolto-coaster' allowed him to showcase his passion for cooking and share his perspective on the demanding nature of the culinary industry.

Restaurants that are constantly being evaluated, their minds become sick.

โ€” Choi Kang-rokChoi Kang-rok explaining why he avoids operating a fine dining restaurant.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Chosun Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.