BLYTHE BECK
Blythe Beck
Chef Blythe Beck (theblythebeck.com) is a Celebrity Chef in Dallas, Texas. After attending Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio, as well as the University of North Texas, she became the apprentice for Chef Dean Fearing at the Mansion on Turtle Creek and went on to work and opened many restaurants in Dallas. Most recently, Pink Magnolia by Chef Blythe Beck in the historic Oak Cliff neighborhood. During the pandemic she decided to close Pink Magnolia, but has since sold a new television show called Family Feast with Chef Blythe Beck that will debut this summer!
Who are some of your role models?
LOL! I have a lot of role models. In terms of cooking, of course Chef Dean Fearing, Bobby Flay, and any woman trying to make it in this still very male-dominant industry. In terms of life, I have a lot of respect and gratitude for all the women in my family. Each of them are strong, resilient, brave, and have supported and loved me through everything always!
What is your motto or philosophy when it comes to food?
Bacon, butter, and booze makes EVERYTHING better!
Bacon Booze Bloody Mary (Photo by jefftakespics2)
What is one of your proudest signature creations in the kitchen?
I am known for quite a lot of signature Southern Classics but I can make the hell out of a biscuit, shrimp and grits, bacon wrapped meatloaf, chicken fried rib eyes, Shlitz malt liquor braised mustard greens, Maker’s Mark banana pudding, or naughty creamed corn. I love all my babies! How do you pick one favorite kid?
Which celebrity would you most love to see come in and enjoy your food?
Anyone that knows me, or has even met me once knows that I am a HUGE NKOTB fan! It’s not their fault they are the greatest artists of all time! Cooking for them would be so fun! But I would also love to feed Barack Obama, Catherine Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Mckinnon, and Aidy Bryant. I have had the opportunity to cook for a ton of celebs, athletes, and politicians! Cooking for someone is always a privilege no matter who they are. It’s the greatest way to show love!
Which Dallas foodie Instagram and social media accounts do you follow and recommend?
@askfoodbitch, @thekachetlife are both great accounts!
What are some of your favorite Dallas-made food products and/or spirits?
Dallas does so many things well! We have a fabulous farmer’s market, great stores, chocolates, pies, etc. But my favorite cheese shop is Scardello. They have two locations and I CAN NOT GET ENOUGH! The best winery is Reddy Vineyards and Winery. They have a great store and the best Texas wine, or any wine for that matter! Finally, if you want the best charcuterie that is gorgeous to look at and amazing to eat, Fat Rabbit Provisions.
What are your favorite local restaurants?
I have so many and they range from swanky to casual but they are all amazing!! Lucia, Carte Blanche, Crab n Bar, Mercat, Lavandou, Lefty’s, Uchi, Monarch, Meddlesome Moth, there are so many! We do food well!
Why is Dallas such a great city for LGBTQ culinary folks?
Dallas is a wonderful city for so many things. I would never assume that I can speak to the LGBTQ experience, but I can speak to mine as an ally. The LGBTQ community has made me feel welcomed and wanted at events, establishments, and have been HUGE supporters of my career both in my restaurants and in my television career. In almost every restaurant venture either my boss or partners were gay. I had not really thought of that until this interview but it’s true! I have also been featured in the gay pride parade on the blingiest float ever!
And finally, I think Dallas has the best drag queens EVER! We hosted multiple drag shows at Pink Magnolia, and I fell so in love with one queen, Victoria Fox, that she and I worked together at multiple events and I had her in my wedding! She’s amazing!
