Chef’s Corner with Robert Nyerick

journeyPod enjoyed a tasting at The Grove at the Miramonte Resort & Spa in beautiful Indian Wells, CA. Located about 20 miles outside of Palm Springs, the Miramonte Resort & Spa is a hidden gem.  Check out our luxury travel podcast for more inside scoop on this gorgeous property.

After a delicious dinner, Chef Robert provided us cooking advice and a “secret” recipe for imitation truffle oil.

 

What advice can you give us cooking enthusiasts?

Don’t over think it.

How did you get started in the business?

I started out as a dishwasher at a deli in New Haven, CT. I worked my way up to counter and from there went to cooking school…
to the CIA.

So, had you not worked at the deli and ended up a Chef, what do you think you might be today?

I would be in the construction trade, maybe an electrician. Or maybe a pilot!

What’s the most unique thing you’ve tasted?

Durian fruit and sand eels. The sand eels were from Holland and I had them in Switzerland.

What are your fave local hotspots?

The Cork Tree, Stuffed Pizza, and the Yardhouse.

Who are some of the most memorable celebs you have cooked for? 

When I was at the Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills I cooked for celebs daily. Some more notable ones were George Burns, Robert DeNiro, and first President Bush.

What do you look for when you first enter a restaurant?

I look for energy and joking behavior. Here in the kitchen we are always joking around, we all have nicknames and we enjoy what we do.

For more information on Miramonte Resort & Spa, check out our podcast at the luxury resort!