Most of the time, we have follow-up questions with our chefs so they can elaborate on some of their shorter responses. This was not one of those instances.
Read our interview with Chris Sarkissian of Medii Kitchen, Part One.
And now, on to Part Two . . . .
When you're not in the kitchen, what are you doing?
Well, these days I feel like I'm only in the kitchen. [Laughs.] When I'm not in the kitchen, I enjoy the company of my friends, my family and my fiancee. I enjoy going out to nightclubs. I like going to shows. I just enjoy an active lifestyle.
Last song playing on your radio:
Jay-Z and Linkin Park's “Collision Course.”
]
Where did you grow up?
I was born in Australia, but homegrown in Orange County. I've traveled all over the world, but OC is my home.
Hardest lesson you've learned?
I've learned many lessons in my life, mostly through trial and error. I've learned that there are no free rides and short cuts. You pay your dues. You reap what you sow. Hard knocks taught me many things about life.
What's your favorite childhood memory?
I was 6 years old. It was Christmas night, and my dad surprised both my brother and me with Suzuki dirt bikes. Being a motorcycle junkie and mesmerized by motorcycles by an early age, it was just a magical moment.
Are you superstitious?
I don't believe in superstition. I believe in karma and positive energy and the law of attraction.
What were you up to five years ago?
I had just opened my fifth restaurant. I started a production company and threw a hip-hop festival. I was nominated for Entrepreneur of the Year Under the Age of 30 in OC, and was awarded the Small Business Award of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce in Anaheim. That just shows how hard I was grinding at that point in my life.
Last book you read? How was it?
Many Masters, Many Lives by Dr. Brian Weiss. This book just gives perspective on the spiritual ife we are living. It's a quick read. I recommend it to all.
Do you have any skills that are non-food-related?
I believe I am a jack of all trades. I am a pretty well-rounded guy. I have skills in arts and music. I am exceptionally compassionate when it comes to understanding human behavior. I'm sure there's more. Ask my fiancee. [Laughs.]
What would you be doing if you weren't in this business?
I'm not sure. I found myself doing this from a very young age. I am very passionate about it. The dream would've been to be touring around the world with a rock band, but I guess that might be fantasy. But as a profession, I don't know where else my life would have led me. Maybe a prosecutor or something.
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A contributing writer for OC Weekly, Anne Marie freelances for multiple online and print publications, and guest judges for culinary competitions. A Bay Area transplant, she graduated with a degree in Hospitality Management from Cal Poly Pomona. Find her on Instagram as brekkiefan.