17 replies to this topic

[ScottyBoy]

So I'm a bit of a diva, yes. The coats I've ordered from 2 different websites (Happychefuniforms and Chefuniforms) just aren't quite up to par. Since I work in people's homes I would like to look the best I can. Anyone have experience with ordering top quality coats?

Thanks in advance.

[Panaderia Canadiense]

I have mine custom-made by a bespoke chef's tailor down here (although for reasons other than yours - I'm simply much longer of arm in proportion to the chest measurement than most Ecuadorians, and finding something off-the-rack that fit me was impossible). You might want to investigate having a jacket custom made, if you're not adverse to spending a tidge more on your presentation jackets.

[ScottyBoy]

Ah, yes. I'm sure there has to be a tailor around the Bay Area for chefs.

Edit: After poking around I found the Culinary Classics website. Seem like very nice coats but $$$! Will invest and write it up for others looking for a fancy coat.

Edited by ScottyBoy, 18 May 2012 - 05:26 PM.

[pastrygirl]

Have you looked at Bragard?

[ScottyBoy]

OoooOOoo fancy pants.

[avaserfi]

Try Cayson Designs, very nice jackets for a reasonable price.

[Karri]

I second Bragard, I had one for a while until it got lost in the laundry. Felt like a cool afternoon breeze was gently kissing my skin every time I wore that baby... How I miss her...

[JeanneCake]

Crooked Brook is good, too; a friend has gorgeous coats from there that she uses when she's in front of the public.

[Slamdunkpro]

I got mine from Culinary Classics. They screwed up the first one but bent over backwards to make sure the other 3 were exactly as I wanted them.

[Peter Green]

They're just whites. You get them. They get stuff on them. You get new ones. (Okay, I keep the signed ones).

[Chris Hennes]

Peter, are you arguing that in ScottyBoy's position you don't think he should be worried about how his coat looks?

[Peter Green]

Peter, are you arguing that in ScottyBoy's position you don't think he should be worried about how his coat looks?

I believe that the gear is part of the job. If looking good is important, then it may be better to invest in something more superficial, at a lower cost. If your concern is over protection then you pay more for it, but you have to live with the idea that it's going to take some damage over time.

Generally, given the above conditions, if appearance is important, than you're better off to buy cheap and disposable, and give yourself that "just pressed look". If you want the battle-hardened look, then you invest in something to keep ( but it may not be cost effective).

I've found that, over time. it's better not to get attached to equipment. It's cheaper that way.

Cheap is good.

[nibor]

Just my opinion, but I expect that here in southern California people would expect ScottyBoy to show up at their house looking like an expensive diva. And the more expensive he looks the more he can charge them.

[Edward J]

Good Chef's coats are double breasted for a reason: For good presentation, you quickly unbutton, and then button up on the "good side". For working away, a bib apron is effective, again, for presentation, it's just a quick removal of the apron, tuck the bib down, and tie it back on for a "regular" apron.

Cheap coats are cheap, best used for "messy days" when you know you'll be getting dirty.

[ScottyBoy]

Wow I almost look like I know what I'm doing. Fantastic coat from Bragard Uniforms.

[nickrey]

Is that a fortifying beer before you start cooking or is it an ingredient?

[ScottyBoy]

Hehe, that's a start to a very deadly night last night...

Life threatening hangover right now.

[Renn]

cayson's right in our back yard...they're great coats and folks.