Who knew Irish food could be healthy?

The Healthy Irishman, that's who!

How does a business major from Co. Kerry end up working as a chef to the rich and famous in Los Angeles? The answer — Irish charm.

Gavan Murphy, 38, has been living and working in California for nine years. Monday through Friday Murphy makes his living preparing breakfast, lunch and dinner for a family in L.A.  On weekends Murphy ups the tempo when he caters for the rich and famous at glitzy affairs

“It’s the best job in the world,” said Murphy, who has recently trademarked himself as “The Healthy Irishman.”

“As the name suggests, I’m an Irish guy who cooks healthy food,” Murphy told the Irish Voice in between meal preparations on Wednesday

Always a risk taker, Murphy decided Ireland’s climate wasn’t for him anymore, so he packed a bag and boarded a flight bound for Hollywood in 2000

“I arrived in June to the beautiful sunshine and I instantly knew I had made the right decision,” recalls Murphy

While earning a degree in marketing and business in Dublin, Murphy spent a summer in Martha’s Vineyard working as a kitchen help.  “I was bitten as soon as I got in,” he said

He started out washing dishes, quickly progressed to making sandwiches for lunch and finally got involved in the dinner preparations

“I was hooked.  I knew then I didn’t want a nine to five job in a suit and tie. I wanted this,” he said

Murphy went back to Ireland, got his degree in marketing and business and then quickly switched gears. He hung up the suit and threw on an apron

After realizing his passion late in life, Murphy secured a place in one of Ireland’s finest culinary schools, Ballymaloe Cookery School situated in the lush countryside of Co. Cork and run by Darina Allen, Ireland’s best known cook. “Ballymaloe Cookery School taught me not only the basics of cooking but also the importance of an organic lifestyle and sustainability,” he said

​
Nster.com