Conversations with Chef Mikery Hatfield

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chef Mikery Hatfield.

Hi Chef Mikery, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Well, the (CHEF MIKE) journey began in a Marriott kitchen way back in 1992′. Which quickly led to (2) years of intensive Culinary Instruction at Los Angeles Trade Technical College, followed by another (18) months as an Apprentice at the Century Plaza Hotel.

From there it’s been Hotel Kitchen after Hotel Kitchen. From the Ritz-Carlton here in the Marina to the W’~San Diego, a couple of Hiltons, another Marriott, the USC Hotel, and in between the Hotels, I’ve managed high-volume catering kitchens at 2 Universities (SOKA & LMU/Loyola Marymount), a Major League Baseball stadium (PETCO Park, home of the San Diego Padres) and even the Historic LAX Theme Restaurant “Encounter” before it closed its doors unfortunately. It was from this 30 Year’s Parade of experience in High End, high volume…..and yes High-Intensity operations that my OWN Catering venture: “Next Level Events” was finally born.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
“A Smooth Sea Never Made a Skilled Sailor” ~ Franklin Roosevelt

And while the President could not be more spot on, those words still resonate today….especially for anyone thinking of starting a business (without the benefit of wealthy, generous parents).

But I also must admit that I really have learned and absorbed a lot through my many (Many) challenges.

I think one constant climb has been figuring out how to scale my processes to create the same level of excellence that I’ve produced at the Hotels for so many years. Hotels with a Vast range of resources.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a Boutique Catering company. We Specialize in creating the same level of excellence that you would experience at your favorite restaurant or hotel. Right in your home, office or any other venue. Whether it’s the Thanksgiving luncheon at the NAACP/HOLLYWOOD BUREAU or the Romantic Sunset Dinner for 2 aboard a cozy yacht cruising through Santa Monica Bay… Curated for one of L.A.’s renowned musicians as he popped THE Question to his soon-to-be Bride. These are Moments that people will never forget. And being a part of these moments…..these experiences……. is really what I’m Most proud of!!

Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
As a business owner… EVERY. SINGLE. DAY you’re exposed to some risk. Even on the days you sit and do absolutely nothing. Even that is a risk! One lesson I’ve learned, mostly from studying business experts but also from my own experiences is that there is no such thing as eliminating risks. And so therefore… the most important thing to remember is that we must calculate any potential risks. That involves research… more research and a healthy amount of cross-reference topped of with a good old-fashioned dose of networking.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @Chefmike213