Featured Chef Michael DeMaria of Heirloom, An American Restaurant
How did you get your start in the restaurant business?
My first job in the restaurant business was as a bus boy. On Mother’s Day, I accidentally spilled a tray of water down one of the mother’s backs. She screamed so loud that it scared the daylights out of me. Ever since that day, I moved into working in the kitchen and never looked back.
What is your favorite Valley restaurant, besides your own?
My favorite restaurant has got to be Eddie’s House. I know I’m always going to get a meal that will rock my socks. He also has a drink that’s sweeping the nation—just ask Chef Eddie!
What is your favorite dish at your restaurant?
Currently, it’s the sautéed veal sweetbreads on truffled creamed corn and red wine shallot marmalade. We change our menu monthly at Heirloom so check back next month for my new favorite dish.
What is the most memorable meal you’ve ever had?
My most memorable meal was on my 10th wedding anniversary. My wife and I were dining with our best friends, the Murphys, at Charlie Trotter’s world-famous restaurant in Chicago. We ate a 12-course meal in the kitchen while watching Chef Trotter expedite the entire restaurant from the line.
If you could have anyone visit your restaurant, who would it be?
I would love for John Elway, Hall of Fame Quarterback for the Denver Broncos (my favorite team) and two-time back-to-back Super Bowl champion, to join us for dinner.
Name three ingredients that you have at home at all times.
Vienna beef hot dogs, Golden’s Spicy Brown Mustard and sauerkraut—oh yeah, baby!
What is your favorite bottle of wine or cocktail?
Nero D’Aovla, a Sicilian Red wine. It’s got a full fruity bouquet and is great to drink with any Italian food, especially pasta.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Fly fish the world…or talk about it…or dream about it.
For more information on Heirloom, An American Restaurant, click here
