We’re looking forward to introducing you to Viktoria Tabak. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Viktoria, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
I think the thing that is most misunderstood about my business is that it’s not just about making money by putting food in front of others— I am genuinely making an effort each day to better people’s health by encouraging scratch made & seasonal meals; an understanding that can be passed down through generations to come. We live in a country that unfortunately hasn’t prioritized clean, home cooking in a while, and many don’t know that food can be the best medicine, or the worst poison. People are slowly realizing what a negative health impact inflammatory ingredients like excessive sugar, refined carbs, and processed foods make on our bodies. Cooking for others & their families is a way to give back to a community I love, educate, and contribute to their health in a positive way. I truly love what I do & am deeply passionate about it.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Viktoria, and I am a private chef who offers full service catering, in-home services, and has developed a popular weekly meal prep program in Los Angeles County. I offer both individual sizes & family sizes that feed four, with pickup & delivery options. The menu rotates the five choices weekly, and all that are offered are 100% from scratch, high protein, low carb, pre-portioned, and made with clean ingredients. I was professionally trained in Italy in my 20’s, and I bring my love & understanding of the Mediterranean Diet specifically into what I offer my clients. I strive to make a difference in the health & happiness of those around me, including that of my own family, as we enjoy the food too!
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
One of the things that breaks bonds between people, specifically in our current society, is always being on the go, and constantly being connected & reachable, through smart phones. Whether that be via text message, phone call, social media, or email, we are constantly able to be accessed nowadays, if we allow it. It can take you away from the loved ones around you, and you can forget to pause and enjoy the small moments. This is another reason I love what I do— people gather at the end of a busy day at their dining table, and with the time I’ve saved them by preparing their meals, they are able to spend more time together, connecting. Family meals are sacred & incredibly important to me & my family, and I hope to contribute to other’s physical & mental health as well through the work I do.
When did you last change your mind about something important?
The last time I changed my mind about something important was in 2022, when, after years in the hospitality industry working for others, I took the leap & went fully private with my chef work. Instead of dedicating my life to working for others, I was able to understand what’s truly important in life, and for me, that is my family. The flexibility of being my own boss and maximizing the amount of time I spend with my son became paramount. I also get the opportunity to contribute positively to those I work for, specifically, where their health is concerned.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
The public version of me is absolutely real today. I have an unshakable understanding of who I am, and am perfectly ok with not being everything to everyone. I am diligent, organized, extremely hard working, and value my alone time, and I often come off quite serious to those who don’t know me well. Once others get to know me, however, they often see a looser, goofier side, and a woman who love & protects the people in her life fiercely. I have a calmness about me that has only been achieved through time & experience, and I quite enjoy the person I am today.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
What I hope people always remember about me when I’m gone is that I live my life in service to others. I strive to always pour into the stream life, and not just take from it. I want people to know that if I love them, I love them fully, and I aim everyday to show them just how much. I want them to remember me present, involved, and not distracted by menial tasks, letting life pass me by.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.vltcatering.com
- Instagram: @vltcatering
