Skip to content

Phillip Thigpen

Founder & Education Director

Ascending Pathways (1)
Experiences

Founder & Executive Chef

  • FOOD 4 THE STARS ( Market services to private parties, companies)

Progammer Director and Head Instructor

  • Chinese American Service League 

 Executive Chef/Culinary Teacher

  • Oak Park River Forest High School

Executive Chef/Culinary Teacher 

  • Mickinley High School

Café Supervisor  

  • Macneal Hispital

Certifications & Recognition

  • HIPAA certification
  • Member of ACF
  • Instructor Certificates

About Me

For most of my life, I was a performer, dedicating my time and passion to entertaining audiences. Traveling with my team on tour was always an exhilarating experience, but one particular moment changed the course of my journey. One night, I decided to cook for my teammates, and as I prepared each dish, I realized that culinary arts, much like performing, is a form of self-expression. The way ingredients come together to create something meaningful reminded me of the emotions we evoke on stage. Seeing my team enjoy the food I made sparked a deep realization—cooking was another way for me to share my creativity with others.

That moment led me to found Food 4 the Stars and officially step into the culinary industry. Just as I once poured my heart into performing, I now put that same passion into creating unforgettable dining experiences. Cooking for people—whether celebrities, professionals, or everyday individuals—became my new stage, where flavors and presentation replaced music and movement. The joy I felt when people savored my dishes solidified my purpose in this industry. Culinary arts is not just about feeding people; it’s about storytelling, connection, and artistry, all of which align with my lifelong love for performance.

As my journey in the culinary world evolved, I discovered another passion—teaching. I realized that just as I once guided and inspired through performance, I could now do the same through culinary training. Helping others develop their skills in the kitchen and witnessing their growth brings me immense fulfillment. This passion has driven me to start a culinary training program where I can share the artistry and techniques of cooking with aspiring chefs. Through this initiative, I hope to empower others to find their own creative voice in the culinary world, just as I did.

portfolio-heading-pattern