Though this isn't the kind of blog where you come to read the latest gossip about Portland's food scene, there's been an exciting development for someone I've got a huge amount of respect and admiration for. David Anderson, the chef de cuisine at Vindalho, has decided to leave the restaurant he helped craft into the city's go-to spot for great Indian-inspired cuisine.
A new opportunity presented itself when he met former Nike exec Rudy Chapa and his wife, attorney Patricia Eiting, dedicated SE Portland residents who'd just purchased the much-beloved Genoa with the intention of reopening it. Anderson, just past his 30th birthday, had ideas he'd wanted to put into practice and impressed the couple with his experience and drive.
The magic happened, Anderson gave his notice at Vindalho and is currently on board as executive chef and general manager with an equity stake in the business. The plan is to reopen Genoa in November along with a second concept, an Italian-style enoteca/bar, in the space next door. We can only wish him the best, and look forward to toasting his success!
That is great for the new Genoa owners, because he's such a creative chef, and good for him because I'm sure he's ready for a change, esp. w/ the equity stake. Good news gathering!
ReplyDeleteIt's an exciting development, for sure. And thanks to David for his forthcoming answers.
ReplyDeleteThis is great news and so impressive to see such a YOUNG man doing so well in what has turned into a cut-throat foodie town. I greatly admire young people in this business that are intelligent, motivated and not afraid to WORK! Hope it goes well!!
ReplyDeleteFrom my conversations with both David and his brother Ray (sous chef at Nuestra Cocina), they are all about the work and thrive on the challenge. They'll both be worth watching in the years to come.
ReplyDeleteOy! Just after I did a chef profile of him at Vindalho! :)
ReplyDeleteGood luck David!
Isn't that the way it works sometimes? But there's always a new story at the new place!
ReplyDeleteIt is nice that the empty building will no longer be empty. I just hope, as someone who lives nearby, that they won't have the same awful smells that Genoa would have at times.
ReplyDeleteFrom what David said, there were major infrastructure issues with the old building, which they're going to rectify. I imagine that'll include a state-of-the art HVAC system!
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