This month, we speak with Deng, a chef at Great Leap Brewing #12 in Beijing. He likes climbing mountains and making money.
How are you feeling today?
So far so good! My work has been going well, and I haven’t made any mistakes so I don’t have anything to worry about.
What’s the first thing you thought when you woke up this morning?
I thought: Oh my god, I need to check the alarm! Please don’t tell me that I’m late for work… with my eyes barely opened and fingers crossed.
What is your idea of the perfect day?
A day in which I don't have to work and can climb a mountain, because let me tell you, if you haven’t climbed a mountain in Beijing, I think you’re making a big mistake. It’s the best activity in Beijing.
Who are your best customers?
I enjoy those who are very open and talkative, because that makes the whole conversation interesting and worthwhile.
Who are your worst customers?
Those who complain, or react over trivial matters. People who are hard to please.
Which living person do you most admire?
Definitely our head chef! He already does an amazing job, but he still constantly looks to innovate and further develop his cooking. Not only is he a wonderful chef, he also is an amazing person.
When and where were you happiest?
It might sound weird, but I was happiest at the hospital. It was when my child was born. I was indescribably happy. I’ll never forget how happy I felt.
Which talent would you most like to have?
Cooking talent that would enable me to be a chef abroad.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
Not having to worry about the prices when I go shopping. It feels so liberating!
If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
Definitely the relationship between my mother and my wife [smirks]. They fight a lot and I always have to be the mediator. It’s so tiring.
What is your most treasured possession?
My family. Blood is thicker than water.
What trait do you most value in a person?
Morality.
What is it that you most dislike?
People who are deceitful and sly.
What is your motto?
It’s better to be hated than to be pitied.
What's the most surprising thing that's happened to you?
I was a bit surprised when I first got my salary. I told myself in disbelief that I now have so much money to spend.
What always makes you laugh?
I guess... things that are funny? Oh and also, when I get my salary [laughs].
Which era of Beijing's history would you most like to have lived in?
The Qing dynasty.
Who is your hero?
Zhou Jielun, because I love, love, love his songs.
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