Graduating in 2016 from the International Culinary School at the Art Institute of Indianapolis with a bachelor’s in culinary management, Chef Haley Garrity began a line cook job at the then recently opened East End Grill in her hometown of Lafayette, Ind. Now chef de cuisine, Garrity has created eight years of menus for the neighborhood restaurant focusing on using fresh seasonal ingredients from around the state. With her fiancé, Cecil, also a chef, Garrity shares an 8-year-old daughter named Grace. On her off days, Garrity makes homemade sweets for friends and family.
What made you want to become a chef?
The challenge and the creativity are why I wanted to become a chef. Growing up, I enjoyed cooking and creating new menu ideas with my mom. We would get into the food competition TV shows, and if they could do it, so could I. I enrolled in culinary school as soon as I could, and the rest is history.
What is your favorite type of food and why?
My favorite type of food is fish and seafood. Fish can take on any flavor you want to throw at it, and I like to experiment with different species, textures and flavor profiles.
Where do you get your inspiration?
I get a lot of inspiration from my fiancé, who is also a chef. We both have our own unique styles that complement each other. Of course, I find as much inspiration from dining when traveling as possible.
What is your favorite thing to make for yourself and your family?
My first favorite thing to make for my family is homemade cookies – any cookies – which I enjoy baking for all my family and friends. My second favorite thing to make would be breakfast food: biscuits and gravy, eggs Benedict and my cinnamon rolls.
If you could eat anywhere in the world, where would that be, and what would you have?
If I could eat anywhere, I would enjoy Japan’s food. My father had traveled there for work and brought me back many food gifts. It would be amazing to experience Japanese sashimi and sushi.
If you could visit any place in Indiana, where would that be, and what would you eat?
I would choose the Cake Bake Shop in Carmel. I have only been with a friend once but would die to go back. I would eat the croque madame again because it’s the most mouthwatering brunch item you can get. I would also eat any of their amazing cakes.
What items are always in your fridge?
I always have butter and eggs in my fridge for my baking needs and condiments such as mayo and ranch.
