Coinciding with the release of his first menu for fall, we drop in on Chef Jefferson Alvarez as he settles in at his elegant new digs high on the hill in West Vancouver: Fraîche.
Where are you from?
Born in Venezuela, quickly transplanted to Toronto where I grew up.
What was your first job in the industry?
Prep-cook and dishwasher
How would you describe your style of cooking?
Evolution on traditional flavours. I love to be the first to use new, exciting, and unique ingredients while keeping my food clean, natural, and healthy.
Who or what is your biggest inspiration in the kitchen?
My mom was my biggest inspiration. I’ve always been around food and family. My sister is a Chef as well.
What food trend would you like to see Vancouver embrace?
I would like to see Vancouver embrace more unique & privately owned restaurants specializing in unique foods.
There is such a focus on chain restaurants in the city and I feel the new generations are missing an opportunity to understand and appreciate food on a higher level.
Describe your favourite meal of all time.
My favourite meal of all time was at Hof van Cleve in Belgium and consisted of 13 courses and it was indescribable! An experience that incredible cannot and should not be talked about…just remembered. I will tell you that a truffle trolley came to the table with 150 different types of hand-made truffles for dessert though!
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Here is a look at Chef Alvarez’ new 5-course custom fall tasting menu ($95 per person with wine) at Fraîche in West Vancouver:
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- ^ Asparagus Salad, sunny-side egg & white Alba truffle
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- ^ Smoked Sturgeon, braised salsify, corn, leek, patty pan, apricot white wine sauce
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- ^ Amberjack Ceviche, pineapple mignonette, heart of palm salad
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- ^ Braised Yak, wild mushroom bread pudding, chantrelle mushrooms, green beans
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- ^ Corn Harvest 3 Ways, sponge cake, sherbert, powder
Disclosure: http://cmp.ly/1/b3vy2a media dinner preview