Ken Hanson serves as the Executive Chef at South Front Tavern. He is a culinary graduate from Johnson and Wales and spent 20 years in Colorado before returning to Wilmington, NC, to work in catering for movie studios. He did a stint as Executive Chef at Smoke on the Water, and it was during this time that he met Mark Zecher, the owner who was developing the concept for South Front Tavern. Impressed by his vision and passion, Hanson wanted to be a part of it.
What makes South Front Tavern unique?
It's the concept. Our Regional American cuisine has signature dishes from across our beautiful country. We continued the theme with an all-American wine list. The menu is very approachable, but everything we do is slightly elevated to keep us unique with attention to detail.
How would you describe the food you like to cook?
I like to cook soups, stews and comfort food. Dishes that come from the soul.
What motivates and inspires you as a chef?
I strive to get better every day and execute at a high level. But what truly drives me is the joy of making memorable meals for our guests. It's what makes our dining experience at South Front Tavern so special.
What might diners not know about you?
My passion for gardening. It's a personal interest that I bring into my cooking, and it's something I'm truly passionate about.
What is your current favorite dish on the menu?
Gumbo Ya-Ya. It has so much history and so much depth of flavor.
What's your favorite local produce, and how do you use it on the South Front Tavern menu?
Our steamed Little Neck Clams. The garlic-wine broth is so good! It's excellent for dipping our grilled crusty bread!
Favorite foodie city?
Denver
What's your all-time best comfort food?
Brunswick Stew
Describe the best meal you've ever eaten.
Mussels with a bottle of Pouilly-Fuisse' in the north of France.
3 songs on your current playlist?
If you have one important piece of advice for home cooks, what might that be?
Don't get so focused on recipes. Use them as a guide, but let your heart and soul take over, and you will find cooking much more enjoyable.
540 S. 2nd Street, Wilmington, NC
Comments