Meet Gabe Kennedy, the multifaceted chef and entrepreneur based in New York City! Gabe is one of those individuals that has no shortage of talents... from owning his own business to running point as the mastermind behind a multi-location restaurant in the Big Apple- to say he's making waves in the culinary world would be an understatement.

We've partnered up with Gabe on an array of activations... our brands seem to go hand in hand, so it was a natural fit! We love seeing other young, hungry, gritty entrepreneurs changing up the food & beverage space for the better. Read on for the next installment in our Follow Your Gut series...

Explain who you are and what you do!

My name is Gabe Kennedy, I am a chef, entrepreneur and lover of all things nature (but mainly food!). I'm the co-founder of Plant People, a wellness company, we create herbal supplements, including CBD. I am also the Creative Culinary Director (chef) for The Little Beet and Little Beet Table, a restaurant in NYC with 9 locations. Although my work takes up most of my time, I also play music, and am an avid explorer.

How did you get here? Did you always know this was your life's mission?

I was connected to food and it’s ability to heal and connect people and the planet from a very young age. However, I never would have expected my life to unfold the way that it has. I wake up every morning filled with gratitude that I get to do what I love with people I love. Finding my way took some time, and certainly some mistakes. I got here by following my gut, by taking risks and looking at life and career through and entrepreneurial lens. To me that means keeping an open mind, identifying opportunity for optimal impact and then hustling to make it happen. I believe that connecting with what truly inspires and excites you as an induvial is imperative in begin able to excel in whatever it is you choose to do. It allows for a foundation of passion and drive that can only be found such a connection.

What does a typical day look like for you? 

Everyday is different. Although I always try to accomplish these four things daily:  meditation, movement, sunshine, and a great meal.
I try to make everyday unique and different as monotony is my biggest fear. Usually I wake up, do some stretching, make a cup of coffee + CBD and then catch up on emails. Then I will throw on a podcast and bike from BK to the city. Get into the office or kitchen and tackle whatever initiatives are underway. I wear a few hats, so I am typically bouncing between food things, planning events, educating clients, and finding some time to take it all in. I try to have a solid lunch and catch my breath. Then get back to it.  Everyday is an opportunity to create my own experience and shape my own reality, I work very hard on continuing move all of my projects forward in a mindful way.

Tips for those looking to start their career as a chef? 

Well although I am a classically trained ‘chef.’ I wouldn’t consider myself your typical chef.  Being a chef is not an easy nor glamorous life. I feel fortunate to have approached food in an entrepreneurial way and I don’t have a typical schedule. I suggest getting a job in a restaurant and seeing if you like it. Learn as much as you can, don’t be afraid to do something different and always stay hungry.

Who or what inspires you?

I find inspiration in the most random places, but nature, humanity, and story telling never cease to amaze me. Being curious and taking the time to sit and listen to whatever is in front of me has served as such a source of inspiration. Then every once in a while, I just get an idea… I have no idea where it comes from… it feels right, so I just go with it.

Describe the "happiest and healthiest" version of yourself.

Health is wealth. It is really all i need. For me it is being rooted and grounded in the present moment. Being able to be outdoors, hiking, cooking, sharing meals, stories and experiences. Simply slowing down and connecting with people and nature is so nourishing for me. Loving and being loved. Creating time and space to be in touch with myself and where I am truly at is fundamental.

Best advice you ever received?

Also, act from a space of love always. Love transcends.  Do what you would if you knew you could not fail. . . shoot for the stars.

One thing on your bucket list?

To follow in my dads footsteps and do a long haul sailing trip. I grew up hearing stories of sailing adventures, so I want to sail across a major ocean. I dream of seeing nothing but stars from horizon to horizon. I am a bit afraid I would be dealing with some major sea sickness.

What's your favorite thing to cook?

I am a big fan of eggs. I find myself cooking them more often then not. They are versatile and can be eaten at any time of the day. They are certainly a staple in my life. Outside of that I love cooking over fire. I could be cooking anything, but if I am outside and the fire is live, then I am a happy camper.

What was your favorite moment of Feast Portland?

The 80’s v 90’s party. It was awesome to serve my cocktails / mocktails, eat some throwback food and be the catalyst for a dance circle that was really firing off. Nothing better then some food, beverages and a dance party.

What's up next for you? Any exciting projects or trips we can look out for?

I recently launched a business Plant People. Our goal is to heal and connect people and the planet through the power of plants. To acknowledge that we are nature, we are not separate from it (In fact we plant a tree for every product sold) We create wellness supplements including some CBD products ;) The beautiful thing about this is that we are continually collaborating, and co-creating with other brands, people, restaurants, and wellness communities. Thus far it has been an extraordinary adventure. I can’t wait to see where it all leads.

What does "Follow Your Gut" mean to you?

To me it means, trust. Being in touch with oneself, listening to your body and going for it. We all know what is good for us and what is not. Following my gut, is listening to that little voice and feeling inside myself. When I am rooted in a sense of trust I am able to sink into following my internal compass.

What's your favorite flavor of Health-Ade? Why?

Uff they are all so good. I can chug nearly a whole bottle of any. But if I had to choose, I am a classic Ginger-Lemon guy. I love the intensity, and heat. I am not a fan of spice in drinks, but heat… that’s a different story.

What's your favorite piece of Health-Ade merchandise?

I love the apron! How could I not? 

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