Tyler Kord, the chef-owner of No. 7 Restaurant in Brooklyn, is a renowned culinary figure. But behind the scenes, he's navigating the challenges of single parenthood, balancing the demands of his career and the needs of his young daughter, Barbara. In this exclusive series, Kord shares his raw and honest experiences, offering a glimpse into the realities of fatherhood in the high-pressure world of the restaurant industry.

Navigating the Highs and Lows of Parenthood as a Chef

Embracing the Chaos and Finding Moments of Calm

Kord's journey as a single father is a testament to the resilience and adaptability required in both the culinary and parenting realms. Juggling the long hours and high-stress environment of running a successful restaurant, he finds himself constantly seeking ways to maintain an "abundant mindset" and provide a stable, nurturing environment for his daughter. Despite the challenges, Kord is determined to find pockets of joy and connection, whether it's sharing a pizza from the neighborhood spot or creating simple, comforting meals that bring them both comfort.

Navigating Mealtime Battles and Picky Eating

One of Kord's biggest struggles is the ongoing battle over mealtime. As a renowned chef, he takes pride in his culinary skills, yet he finds himself constantly at odds with his daughter's preferences. Barbara, who eats a wider variety of foods at her mother's house, often rejects the meals Kord prepares, leaving him torn between his desire to provide nutritious, home-cooked meals and his need to ensure his child is fed and happy. Kord's frustration is palpable, but he recognizes the importance of finding a middle ground, whether it's incorporating her favorite dishes or finding creative ways to introduce new flavors.

Maintaining Boundaries and Emotional Regulation

Kord's candid admission of his own struggles with anxiety, depression, and a history of addiction adds a layer of complexity to his parenting journey. He acknowledges the difficulty in establishing boundaries and maintaining emotional regulation, particularly when faced with his daughter's argumentative behavior or unwillingness to comply with his rules. Kord's willingness to seek professional help and his commitment to self-improvement serve as an inspiration, as he navigates the delicate balance of being a supportive, nurturing parent while also prioritizing his own mental health.

Carving Out Quality Time and Creating Meaningful Memories

Despite the challenges, Kord is determined to create a loving, enriching environment for his daughter. He recognizes the importance of quality time together, whether it's sharing meals at the restaurant or finding moments of connection during his limited "off" days. Kord's desire to build lasting memories and instill positive values in Barbara is palpable, as he strives to be the "super chill dad" his daughter deserves, even in the midst of the chaos.

Adapting and Evolving as a Single Parent in the Restaurant Industry

Kord's journey as a single parent in the restaurant industry is a testament to the resilience and adaptability required in both realms. As he navigates the ever-changing landscape of his business and the evolving needs of his daughter, Kord is constantly seeking ways to create a harmonious balance. From incorporating Barbara into the restaurant environment to leveraging his culinary expertise to provide nourishing meals at home, Kord's willingness to adapt and evolve is a testament to his dedication as both a chef and a father.