IN Bethel Park Summer 2016 | Page 14

INGOOD TASTE Candid conversations with the dining scene’s most engaging chefs Jacksons Restaurant + Bar 1000 Corporate Dr., Canonsburg; 724.743.5005, experiencejacksons.com carving to overseeing schedules. He took me under his wing and pressured me to achieve the most that I can. On the Menu: A unique open kitchen that includes a brick oven and wood fire grill preparing artful new American cuisine. The menu changes seasonally for the freshest produce and seafood. Signature dishes include crab cakes, Famous Shrimp and Chorizo Chowder, Creekstone Beef and the freshest seafoods. What kitchen tool can’t you live without? My favorite kitchen tool would have to be the kitchen tongs. They have become an extension of me and they serve many purposes. Why did you become a chef? I originally went to college to become a history teacher, but I didn’t really like the environment. So I started working at a restaurant and I loved the atmosphere and how fast-paced it was—and here I am today. QA What led you to work at Jacksons? I came to Jacksons three years ago to work for the chef at that time. He left shortly after I started and then I moved into the position. Who has influenced your cooking the most? I would have to say a chef I worked for at Rivers Casino, Matthew Eaton. He was like a father to me. He taught me so many things, from ice The dining room at Jacksons. What is your best cooking advice for a novice? The best advice I can give to a novice is: This industry is not