Interview with Chef Isabelle Krief of Ratatouille Catering in Los Angeles

Isabelle Krief's journey from the classrooms of language education to the bustling kitchens of Ratatouille Catering is a testament to the transformative power of passion and persistence. Born in the town of Grenoble, nestled amidst the French Alps, Isabelle's early career saw her crisscrossing the globe, imparting linguistic knowledge in cities as diverse as London, Los Angeles, Wudang in China, Ibiza in Spain, and beyond. She shared about her passion and path.

FQM: Bonjour, Isabelle! It's a pleasure to have you with us today. Let's dive right in. Your journey from teaching languages to establishing Ratatouille Catering is quite remarkable. Can you tell us what initially inspired your transition from education to the culinary arts?

Isabelle: Bonjour! Thank you for having me. Well, my transition actually stemmed from a lifelong passion for cooking. While teaching languages was fulfilling, I always found myself drawn to the kitchen, experimenting with flavors and cuisines from around the world. Eventually, I realized that my heart truly belonged to the culinary arts, and I decided to pursue that passion wholeheartedly.

FQM: It's fascinating how your love for cooking guided your path. Can you share with us some of the key moments that led to the creation of Ratatouille Catering?

Isabelle: Certainly! After studying culinary arts at the Greta Institute, I opened a seasonal restaurant in Grenoble in 2017. The response from patrons was overwhelmingly positive, and it gave me the confidence to expand my culinary ventures. I began exploring the world of food trucks and catering, bringing my dishes to a wider audience through private and corporate events. It was during this time that Ratatouille Catering was born, offering a unique fusion of French cuisine to the people of Los Angeles.

FQM: Your culinary journey is infused with influences from your global travels. How have these experiences shaped your approach to cooking?

Isabelle: My travels have had a profound impact on my cooking style. From the aromatic spices of Wudang to the vibrant flavors of Ibiza, each destination left an indelible mark on my palate. I draw inspiration from the diverse cuisines I encountered, infusing my dishes with a blend of flavors and techniques from around the world. It's this eclectic mix that defines the menu at Ratatouille Catering, offering something for everyone to enjoy.

FQM: Ratatouille Catering is known for its commitment to quality and sustainability. Can you tell us more about your culinary ethos?

Isabelle: Absolutely. At Ratatouille Catering, we prioritize using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and sustainably raised meats. It's important to me that we not only create delicious meals but also do so in a way that respects the environment and supports local producers. We also offer a variety of meat-free options to cater to diverse dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a delicious meal with us.

FQM: Chef Isabelle Krief, Your passion for cooking is evident in everything you do. What do you hope people take away from their dining experience at Ratatouille Catering?

Isabelle: Above all, I hope that people leave Ratatouille Catering feeling satisfied and inspired. Whether they're enjoying a street food-style dish or a traditional French favorite, I want every bite to be a celebration of flavor and culture. Food has a unique ability to bring people together, and I hope that our culinary creations can create memorable moments for our guests.

FQM: Merci beaucoup, Isabelle, for sharing your incredible journey with us. It's been a pleasure speaking with you.

Isabelle: Merci à vous! It's been my pleasure. Au revoir!