With all that on her plate, we wondered what’s on her literal plate.
SELF: Lets start with a little bit about you.
How did you get into cooking?
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O’Connor:Im self-taught, never went to culinary school.
The menu at my restaurant today is very much me as a chef.
It really showcases fresh produce, fresh vegetables, a lot of healthy options.
I see what you did there.
For me, my philosophy is balance.
Personally, I dont think living life and always feeling deprived is a good thing.
For me, thats not who I am.
We grew up together.
We went to an all-girl Catholic school from kindergarten through 12th grade.
We were best friends, and she was the maid of honor in my wedding.
When she had the last tour, we had a discussion about me coming along with her.
It was a nine-month tour and it was really one of the best experiences of my life.
Traveling the world, seeing all these different markets.
Something like quinoa with black beans, grilled shrimp, beautiful veggies.
We want it to be healthy, tasty, filling, nutritious, andfull of fiber.
I really focus on meals that are good in taste but also healthy for your body.
What we eat is what our bodies are.
Being on tour or just performing all of the time, its exhausting.
Wed deviate a bit.
If she wanted a burger and fries, we wouldnt be doing fast food.
[I’ll] combine that almond butter with other things.
Its really about planning.
Thats whyLady Gagahas personal chefs.
She has a million things on her plate.
People think its so hard, the planning.
But it takes 5 or 10 minutes at the beginning of your week.
Think about your meals, where youll be going, what you may need toprep ahead of time.
Put a few things in the car.
I also always think variation is key.
Bring something sweet and savory along for the ride.
Dont drink diet soda.
You dont want that.
I know Gaga definitely doesnt want that.
This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
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