The Culinary Journey of Angie Mar: From Childhood Dreams to Culinary Stardom

Angie Mar’s culinary journey is a tale woven with passion, nostalgia, and an unwavering commitment to the art of cooking. It all began at the tender age of eight during a family trip to Paris, where a bowl of veal kidneys in Cognac and cream sauce ignited a lifelong love affair with food. Mar vividly recalls the moment, declaring to her father, “I love this food. I’ll go to boarding school and live here, and you can all go home.” This early experience not only marked the beginning of her culinary aspirations but also set the stage for a remarkable career that would eventually lead her to become one of New York City’s most celebrated chefs.

A Culinary Calling Amidst Family Expectations

Despite her family’s deep-rooted love for dining—her paternal aunt being the late Ruby Chow, a prominent restaurateur and civic activist—Mar faced pressure to pursue a more conventional career path. Her family, immigrants from China, envisioned a future for her outside the kitchen. However, after a brief foray into the corporate real estate world in Los Angeles, Mar realized that her true calling lay in the culinary arts. She enrolled in New York City’s prestigious French Culinary Institute, where her talent and discerning palate began to flourish.

Rising Through the Ranks in New York City

Mar’s culinary journey took her through various esteemed kitchens across New York City, culminating in her role as executive chef at the iconic Beatrice Inn in the West Village from 2013 to 2016. Under her leadership, the restaurant became known for its unapologetically lavish offerings, bucking the plant-forward trend that had taken hold in the culinary world. Instead, Mar showcased her love for meat, game, and poultry, earning a devoted following and critical acclaim.

In 2020, the Beatrice Inn closed its doors, but Mar’s culinary journey was far from over. The following year, she opened Le Trois Chevaux in the space next door, which quickly garnered a Robb Report Best of the Best award in 2022. Mar’s innovative approach to dining continued to shine as she moved the concept uptown, launching Le B—a reimagined version of the Beatrice Inn influenced by the vibrant aesthetics of the 1980s. Le B not only captured the essence of Mar’s culinary vision but also claimed its own Best of the Best trophy earlier this year, making her the only chef to win for two consecutive openings.

The Art of Culinary Expression

Mar believes that culinary arts extend beyond mere sustenance; they are a form of artistic expression. “So often, culinary arts get mistaken as just dinner,” she reflects. “I think we forget that this is, in itself, an art.” This philosophy is evident in every dish she creates, where simplicity meets finesse, and where each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to enhance the overall experience.

A Day in the Life of Angie Mar

Mar’s daily routine reflects her dedication to both her craft and her personal well-being. Each morning, she opens the shades of her apartment overlooking Central Park, takes a moment to collect her thoughts, and sets her intentions for the day ahead. This ritual is a grounding practice that allows her to approach her busy schedule with clarity and purpose.

Despite her demanding career, Mar embraces the importance of personal time. Sundays are sacred for her, a day reserved for self-reflection and rejuvenation away from the pressures of the culinary world. She also values the analog aspects of life, opting to handwrite notes and lists, a practice that keeps her connected to the tactile world amidst the digital age.

Culinary Creativity and Personal Style

Mar’s creativity extends beyond the kitchen; she has a deep appreciation for fashion and aesthetics. Recently, she acquired a stunning Gucci rose-colored fox jacket, a testament to her love for unique and expressive pieces. However, she also harbors regrets about missed opportunities, particularly a pair of Tom Ford satin “bondage” shoes that still haunt her.

In the kitchen, Mar’s most impressive dish is a classic French omelet, elevated with a touch of caviar and fine herbs. She believes that true culinary artistry lies in the ability to create something extraordinary with minimal ingredients, showcasing finesse and technique.

The Importance of Gut Instinct

Throughout her journey, Mar has learned to trust her gut instinct, a guiding force that has shaped her decisions both in and out of the kitchen. “Every time I haven’t trusted my gut, it’s bit me,” she admits, emphasizing the importance of intuition in her culinary endeavors.

A Vision of Success

For Mar, success is not defined by accolades or awards but by the conscious use of time. “All we have is our time. And for me, success looks like not wasting time,” she reflects. This perspective drives her to continually seek new experiences and challenges, whether it’s learning to draw and paint or exploring new culinary techniques.

Conclusion

Angie Mar’s journey from a young girl enchanted by the flavors of Paris to a celebrated chef and restaurateur is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Her culinary creations are not just meals; they are expressions of art, culture, and personal history. As she continues to push boundaries in the culinary world, Mar remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring chefs and food lovers alike, reminding us all that food is not just about nourishment—it’s about connection, creativity, and the joy of sharing experiences.