Christopher Gallaga - Certified Master Chef
Astonishing, nutritionally balanced, home-cooked, food has been part of my life since early childhood. I learned the traditions and values of cooking at the apron strings of my Grandmother and Mother. These fine women knew the value of a dollar and how to squeeze the last drop of warmth, health and flavour out of every ingredient. I have spent my life trying to adhere to these important lessons and I work ceaselessly in my profession to recreate the warmth, pleasure and conviviality of dining at home.
There is no more important work than being of service to other people. I believe that a chef has a responsibility to work in service to the guests, the staff, the business and the community; not solely in pursuit of their own celebrity.
After my first, self-owned restaurant, Fat Angelo's had reached phenomenal success, and had moved from the hands-on enterprise I enjoy managing, towards a medium-sized company, I began offering my unique insight and skills to other food and beverage operations; both in Hong Kong and abroad. This path has allowed me to keep involved in innovation and creation, while passing on the lions share of rewards to my restaurants and clients.
As if running my own businesses, volunteering in the community, and providing invaluable service to business and industry was not a full enough plate; in 2008 I began lecturing in both Hong Kong and Macau. My classes cover food and beverage management and training, as well as workshops on the craft of culinary preparation, and lectures with a bend towards culinary lore and history.
In the more recent past I have turned my attention and work towards creating quality ready to eat meals for gourmet supermarkets and to changing the face of school meals in Hong Kong and the USA, with an eye towards high approachability, affordability and most of all wholesome nutrition.
I am always looking for new adventures, and opportunities. If, after viewing A Chef At Large, you believe you see an opportunity to collaborate, please drop me a line.
Chris was an invaluable advisor, not only in day to day operations, but also in helping set long term direction. His many years of experience gives immediate understanding of every issue an operation can face. His sage counsel was welcome.
Andy Chworowsky, Managing Director.
M. Gallaga demonstrated high organizational & communication skills, taking major actions to improve daily operations and the business model. I particularily appreciated his sound judgement and infallible loyalt to his staff and the company.
Eric Douilhet - President and CEO
Chef Chris spent the day teaching us how to cook, and sharing his passion for the Food Service Industry.
Tsang Pik Shan Student
At the same time as restructuring the operations and managing integration of a new menu he had actively developed, Chris oversaw all aspects of the business during the height of the 2009 worldwide economic crisis. Despite this very difficult period he played a significant role in returning to profitability.
Ashley Micklewright, Chief Operating Officer.