Former Restaurant Chef Transforms to Culinary Maestro for Sorority Sisters
Kevin Ashton, a seasoned chef known for his culinary expertise, has taken on a new role that may come as a surprise to many. Instead of bustling in a restaurant kitchen, Ashton now caters to the appetites of sorority girls at the Pi Beta Phi chapter of the University of Nevada, Reno. With a knack for preparing delectable delights, Ashton crafts nine meals a week for the young women, sharing his journey with 4.9 million TikTok followers.
Embracing the freedom that comes with his current job, Ashton meticulously plans his weekly menu, comprising four dinners, five lunches, and a special brunch spread every Friday. He navigates his way through shopping for fresh ingredients daily, ensuring each meal is distinctive and tailored to the girls’ tastes. What sets Ashton apart is his commitment to incorporating feedback from the girls, offering alternatives like burgers or salads for those seeking a different culinary experience.
In his bid to personalise the dining experience, Ashton keenly observes which dishes resonate with the sorority sisters and which ones fall short. With a suggestion box in place, he is dedicated to refining his menu to cater to their preferences. Despite the scope for customisation, Ashton’s signature dishes have become crowd favourites, often eliciting requests for repeats of past culinary delights.
Transitioning from a longstanding career in restaurant kitchens, including stints at Italian eateries and steakhouses, Ashton found himself at a crossroads when the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the culinary landscape. Adapting to the change, he delved into creating cooking videos from home, eventually catching the attention of a university alumna. This fortuitous encounter led Ashton to the sorority house kitchen, where he found a renewed passion for his craft.
While Ashton initially viewed the shift to sorority catering as a temporary gig, the dynamic environment and the opportunity for creative expression ultimately won him over. Delving into content creation, he now showcases his culinary creations on social media platforms, captivating an audience of millions. From seafood delicacies to indulgent pasta bakes, Ashton’s repertoire continues to evolve, reflecting his culinary flair and innovative spirit.
Beyond the realm of cooking, Ashton attests to the inspiring nature of the sorority girls, acknowledging their philanthropic endeavours and unwavering support. Recalling a time when he faced a health crisis, Ashton gratefully acknowledges the girls’ compassion and the university’s backing, fueling his desire to reciprocate their kindness and care. In nurturing the bond forged through shared meals, Ashton seeks to pay forward the warmth and generosity he has received.
Reflecting on his culinary journey, Ashton traces his passion for food back to childhood, where imaginative play with kitchenware sparked a lifelong love for cooking. Through his engaging videos and social media presence, Ashton endeavours to inspire others to embrace the joy of culinary creativity. Championing a philosophy that there are no limits in cooking, he encourages experimentation and daring culinary explorations, underscoring the boundless possibilities that food offers.
As Ashton continues to craft culinary marvels for the sorority sisters, his dedication to culinary innovation and community spirit shines through. In a world where gastronomy meets generosity, Ashton’s culinary odyssey serves as a testament to the transformative power of food and fellowship.