If you stay social with Gathar on the ‘gram, the gorgeous Gina Clarke-Helm will be a familiar face. Chef Gina, as we know her, is a California native and one of the hardest working women in hospitality. Through her private chef business Malibu Seaside Chef, Gina has created incredible dining experiences for top tier brands including NASA and Barbie, and a whole galaxy of stars – everyone from Barbra Streisand to Justin Bieber.
When we were planning Gathar’s US launch, we knew we needed to find an ambassador who really understood the ambitions of local chefs and appetites of hosts across Los Angeles. We couldn’t think of anyone better suited to the task than Chef Gina, and we’re excited for you to get to know her here. Let’s meet the chef behind the apron.
You weren’t always a private chef – how did Malibu Seaside Chef come about?
I was a model for over 20 years and modeled all over the world. I thought to myself: ‘I’m getting older – what can I do to pay the bills?’ I love animals and thought maybe I could be a vet, but that takes a lot of studying. Luckily, I also love to cook! I’d been exposed to so many flavors and so many cuisines traveling all over the world.
I started working with Wolfgang Puck in Malibu at his restaurant, Granita, and started catering with him. We catered for the Kardashians and at all these high end properties, and I thought: wow, this is something I’d really like to do – not work in a restaurant, but be a private chef.
What does a ‘day in the life’ of a private chef look like for you?
An inquiry comes in and I start talking with the client. I’d start by getting dietary restrictions, the address, the time… The client and I would make the menu and then I’d organize my team, including my server and my assistant.
Then we’d start ordering the different proteins and ingredients we’d need. I arrive hours before to start making the food and get all the finer details ready for the event.
You’ve catered for some amazing people and brands – what’s one event that really stands out for you?
I just had the Beach Boys and Foreigner at a private concert in Malibu for 150 people. That was a really awesome event, so fun to watch them play live right there. I had a great menu and it was a great turn out.
I also worked for U2 for two months. I love U2 – it was the first concert I ever went to and I had them for every single day for two months straight. They were some of the realest, coolest people I ever worked for.
What’s the most popular dish you create that people always rave about?
For sure my lamb chops, they’re number one. My clients from all over the world – serious lamb lovers, even my Greek friends – say ‘Your lamb chops are the best!’
I do this special sweet chilli sauce with mint and cilantro and lime juice. I call it ‘crack sauce’ and it’s some of the best sauce you’ll ever have. You could put it on anything – you could put it on a piece of paper and want to eat it.
Any chance you’ll share the recipe with us?
Absolutely! I love teaching this recipe at any cooking class because it’s easy, people can remember it, and you’ll never want to forget it.
Let’s talk about your partnership with Gathar. When Gathar was first introduced to you, what did you think?
First I thought: ‘wow, I wish I’d thought of this!’ And then I thought: this is perfect for chefs. It takes the admin out of the process. My husband does my admin! For a chef, it’s hard to do because most chefs are creative and it’s a whole other world to be on the computer and do all the paperwork. Gathar takes that out of the equation for the chef, which lets them just be creative.
You often call out to other chefs in your community to sign up and cook with Gathar. What do you think are some of the benefits Gathar offers to chefs?
For me, when I started out 18 years ago, it was hard to get the client. Gathar is already bringing the client to you, and as a personal chef this is one of the hardest parts. You need advertising to get the client to come to you. Gathar brings the client to the chef so they can focus on the food. That’s the best part.
Tell us about the pilot program you’re currently filming! What’s it about and when can we watch it?
The project I’m working on is a reality show based on Malibu Seaside Chef. We’re looking at pitching this out to the networks in January, so watch this space! I’ve already done Food Network, Extreme Chef, two years of Million Dollar Listing, and Beverly Hills Housewives, so this would be the icing on the cake.
What are some of your top tips for anyone entertaining at home?Â
I love to set the mood. For me, it’s all about the vibe you set when people are walking into your house. I always have music going – I have to cook to music and I always prep to music.
Then, get organized. Get a little cocktail station ready where you’re going to serve a signature drink; everything is muddled ready to go; everything is chilled – your white is chilled, your red is open…
Make it easy for yourself so you can enjoy your guests. It’s not fun for people to come over when all you’re doing is working in the kitchen. Have a lot done before your guests come so you can enjoy – or just let Gathar do the hard work for you!
