Chef Spotlight: Executive Chef Dan DeSalvo of BOWERY BAR AND FARE

Executive Chef Dan DeSalvo grew up in Wappinger's Falls, where he started working at an Irish steakhouse at age 14. He worked every post in the restaurant and fell in love with the instant gratification of making people happy through food. He went on to graduate the Culinary Institute of America, and became a chef at Del Frisco's in DC, before switching to Mastro's Steakhouse and opening numerous locations as a chef. Before joining the team at The Bowery, he was Executive Chef at Morton's Steakhouse on Long Island.

Broadwayworld.com had the pleasure of interviewing Chef Dan DeSalvo for our "Chef Spotlight."

What was your earliest interest in cooking?

I remember going to my grandmother's house in Chappaqua every Sunday as a kid. She would be making chicken cutlets, steak, and "sauce" all day. My knife skills were not exactly honed yet at the age of 5, so my favorite job picking basil leaves.

Who were some of your career mentors?

My dad for getting me my first job in a restaurant and always being there to guiding through any obstacle life threw my way. My older brothers Michael and Tommy guiding me through any obstacles I didn't want to tell my parents about, Chef Rob for helping me hone my craft so I could take my career to the next level and become an Executive Chef. My mom for always supporting me and pushing me to follow my dreams.

What culinary styles have influenced your career?

I am half Irish and half Sicilian, so I grew up eating a lot of corned beef and meatballs. I am classically French trained from The Culinary Institute of America, but my bread and butter is steak. I grew up working in a steakhouse from 14-25.

What do you consider the most distinguishing features of your work as a chef?

I have been lucky to be able to travel and live all over the country and work in different aspects of hospitality. I have been able to see, taste, smell, and cook all different types of cuisine and I incorporate that into my cooking.

What is your favorite meal or meals?

I love a Kansas City strip steak medium rare and charred with garlic mashed potatoes and a glass of cab, but nothing beats a NY slice of pepperoni with a beer in Penn station after a Rangers win.

Tell me a little bit about your restaurant for our readers.

The Bowery is one of a kind experience for guest of all ages. The menu evolved around taking street food from all over the world and plating it. There is something for everyone one here from the décor and interactive games to the signature cocktail and food.

Bowery Bar and Fare is located at 300 Sunrise Highway, Rockville Centre, New York 11570. Call them at 516.493.9023 and visit https://theboweryrvc.com/.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Chef Dan DeSalvo

To post a comment, you must register and login.