Uniformity: Emmanuel Zhao, Chef, Scarlett, Hotel G

Uniformity is a regular magazine column where we ask Beijing personalities about the various outfits that have defined them over the years.

With the long hours they work, chefs spend more time in uniform than most people. But what about the time that they spend out of the kitchen? We spoke to Chef Zhao of Scarlett to find out if there were any other uniformed skeletons in his closet.

Which uniform was the worst fit?
School uniform. I hated it. It had absolutely no character. Everyone looked so dull. I was so happy after graduating from high school because I could finally say goodbye to the ugly day-to-day wear I had for over six years.

Did you ever feel transformed by wearing any of these uniforms?
The Superman costume is my favorite costume of all. When I was young I used to dream about being in that costume and transforming into Superman to save the world. Strangely enough, even though I’m an adult now, I still feel the same way when I wear the Superman costume.

Did you ruin any of these uniforms?
Yes, one day at school I cut my school uniform in order not to wear it the next day. But I forgot that our teacher had some extra ones just in case, so I was offered another set right after the damage was found. Attempt failed.

Tell us about how a uniform made you feel out of place.
When I was in Paris, I went for an interview, and that was the worst overdressed experience I’ve ever had. I thought it would be formal so I suited up, but it turned out everyone else was in smart casual. I felt so embarrassed but fortunately the interview went well and I got the job.

Which uniform did you have the most fun in?
The chef ’s uniform for cooking competitions. We all know chef’s uniforms are always white without much design, but the uniforms I wore for cooking competitions were always a bit different in color and style. It boosts my spirit and creativity.

Which uniform were you most mocked for wearing?
When I was little, I was forced to wear a skirt in kindergarten for a kids’ show. I still remember that I was laughed at by my friends because I looked like a girl. I can still feel how uncomfortable it was, even after so many years have passed. I never wore any girls’ clothes after that.

Taste the spirit and creativity of Chef Zhao at Scarlett.

This article originally appeared on page 53 of the January issue of the Beijinger.

Photo: Sui