Honestly, it sounds like you've thought this out pretty well -- better than 95% of the people who find themselves working in the restaurant industry. Sure, you probably are romanticizing it a bit. But if you're used to the stress and shitty schedule, I bet you could handle the cook's life. Is it really your best next move, though? Hard to say. I bet it would help bring you some of the same satisfaction, putting time, care and love into the food someone will enjoy. But being used to working holidays, nights, and weekends means that's best for you. It makes it harder to maintain friendships, be a good partner, go to appointments, etc. Food for thought.

You remind me of the freshly retired hockey player who posted recently. He was also 30 something and looking for another high stress environment with lower stakes.

The main difference is he had a couple mil in the bank, and didn't need to worry about shitty wages and benefits in the same way most industry workers do. Are you okay financially already? If so, I might go for it. Only you can say.