After a lengthy search for a new executive chef, Canlis has appointed James Huffman, its current executive sous chef, to lead the kitchen. This decision marks a significant shift in the restaurant's hiring strategy, as previous chefs were brought in from prestigious backgrounds. Huffman, a local who has worked at Canlis for nine years and is the first Seattle-born executive chef, represents a strong commitment to nurturing local talent. Owner Mark Canlis believes the restaurant's strength now lies in its ability to develop leaders from within its ranks.
"There were seasons in the past where we definitely needed to bring in outside input. We needed voices. We needed new ideas," says Canlis.
"Now, he says, 'the restaurant is strong enough to be producing people capable of doing exceptional work.'"
Collection
[
|
...
]