Hill chef to cook in Sochi for Olympic officials

Posted 2/6/14

by Emily Vanneman

As the 2014 Olympics quickly approaches, many are imagining the excitement that awaits as they watch their favorite athletes compete for the gold. Any sports enthusiast would …

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Hill chef to cook in Sochi for Olympic officials

Posted

by Emily Vanneman

As the 2014 Olympics quickly approaches, many are imagining the excitement that awaits as they watch their favorite athletes compete for the gold. Any sports enthusiast would jump at the chance to cheer on their country in the stands at Sochi, and Campbell’s Place’s Rob Mullen, chef and caterer to stars such as the members of U2 and Coldplay, will have the opportunity to do just that.

From Feb. 7 to 23, Mullen will be demonstrating his skills as a chef to the Olympic broadcasters and Olympic committee. With his experience in serving at music venues all over the world, Mullen is well prepared for his journey to Sochi.

“I’m really excited about it,” Mullen said. “I think it’s an honor.”

While most people would have nerves about heading to such a remarkable event, Mullen knows that he and his staff are confident about their performance.

“I’ve done it before,” he said. “I have a highly trained staff.”

Mullen’s training began very early in life with summer jobs at local restaurants. His decision to leave college in the second semester of his senior year and pursue a career as a chef was guided by his lifelong passion for cooking. He attended the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY.

“I started cooking when I was 14,” Mullen said. “I cooked my way through college and high school.”

His employment at Campbell’s Place, at 8337 Germantown Ave, solidified Mullen’s fame in the Chestnut Hill area.

Because of his experience, Mullen has earned independence in his career. He and his staff are the autonomous creators of the menu for Sochi.

“We have the freedom to do what we want,” he said. “We work as a team and sit down and come up with menus.”

For an event, Mullen and his team will construct a menu consisting of appetizers, a main course with the options of meat, fish, chicken or vegetarian, and an array of desserts.

With his history of being in close quarters with famous musicians, Mullen has compiled a host of memories that most people only dream of having.

“My most memorable experience is definitely being on the road with U2,” he said. “They’re probably my favorite to be out with.”

Mullen had the rare chance to see the world with U2 during its 2006 Vertigo world tour. His talent as a chef unlocked an unprecedented experience with the band that included journeys to South America, Europe and Australia.

Because the broadcasters will arrive early to begin coverage of the Olympic games and athletes, Mullen will begin his journey early as well. His departure this past Monday will allow him to have time to prepare his menu and settle into life inside the Olympic circle.

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