Chef's Spotlight: JOSEPH PERCEVAULT of Fairview Lake Café in Tafton, Pennsylvania

Born and raised in Verona, NJ, Joseph Percevault has been wearing a white apron, since he was tall enough to see over the counter of his parent's delicatessen, Henry's Fine Foods. After returning from a semester in France, where he lived with his family, his obsession with food became undeniable. A graduate and fellowship instructor from Johnson and Whales University, Rhode Island and three time award winning Chef, Percevault, prepares eclectic American dishes grounded by French tradition.

We had the opportunity to interview Chef Joseph Percevault of Fairview Lake Café in Tafton, Pennsylvania.

What was your earliest interest in cooking?

My earliest memory of cooking takes me back to the 6th grade. Holidays at the Percevaults' house, "all about the food". My father is French and my mother Hungarian, "all about the food". Pies, pies and more pies, I loved baking pies!

Who were some of your career mentors?

Michael Marra, instructor from Johnson and Whales, RI. Michael Clark and Norman Love, Chateau Robert, Fort Meyers, FL. John Sparratta, The Ryland Inn, Whitehouse NJ. Always, start with exceptional ingredients, keep your approach to cooking grounded by high culinary principles, don't take short cuts and never complicate a dish.

What culinary styles have influenced your career?

I love Cajun Cuisine, this rustic approach to French Food, really excites me, full of flavor, still simple and easily made elegant. Cajun and Creole style cooking, just makes people happy!

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

Smart, well dressed dishes, proper seasoning, balanced ingredients, and like my wife says "a hint of bling"! I love elevating duck and salmon dishes. I have also been called a soup maniac, it must be the Hungarian in me!

What is your favorite meal or meals?

I couldn't possibly have one single favorite dish! However, right now, I am thinking about "Fresh charbroiled Swordfish, with maybe with a spicy, citrus sauce" Yep, that will be a feature on tonight's menu!

Tell me a little about your restaurant for our readers.

When Bonnie and I met, a restaurant was part of the promise ~ the kitchen had to be exact and the dining room, remarkable. We fell in love with this building, the architecture, the stone work, the attention to detail, and the proximity to the rest of our lives. As an accomplished culinary couple, we knew our expertise and creative souls would blend well in the creation of fine food and comfortable surroundings. The promise acted as our guide, creating this unique American Café with a suggestion of French flare. If you are visiting the Pocono Mountains, we hope we have the opportunity to serve you!

When travelling in the Poconos region of Eastern Pennsylvania, visit Fairview Lake Café, 250 Route 390, Tafton, Pennsylvania. 18464. You can visit their web site at www.fairviewlakecafe.com or call (570) 390-4949.

Photo: Courtesy of Fairview Lake Cafe

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