FoodFilmSowal – Chef Kevin Korman
With over twenty chefs scheduled to participate in this year’s FoodFilmSowal, there is sure to be something for everyone at the weekend event.
We spent a few minutes with Chef Kevin Korman of Caliza at Alys Beach to get his thoughts on the event. On a side note, Caliza hosts the VIP event Friday night that kicks off the Food Film Festival. For tickets to the weekend’s event, please visit:
https://tickets.completeticketsolutions.com/PAL/Online/
What are your thoughts on being involved with an event like Food Film Fest?
I think this event is a great opportunity to bring some national exposure to this area as a food destination. By bringing in chefs that are associated with James Beard Awards, and Top Chef contestants it draws in a crowd of dedicated foodies that will open them to the culinary talent that is in our neck of the woods.
What trends do you see on the dining scene in South Walton and 30a?
Over the past few years I have seen substantial movement in the way of showcasing the products of local farmers. Really giving them the credit they deserve by listing them on menus.
So much of a restaurant’s vibe comes from its Executive Chef. How does your style affect your diners’ experience?
I have always been a fan of telling stories with my food. I like the guest to know what I was thinking when a dish was conceived. I think it makes the overall experience more enjoyable if they can connect on a different level than just taste.
What one “best practice” from working in kitchens OR piece of instruction learned in culinary school do you daily find the most useful?
Stay organized, “taste season taste”, have a sense of urgency. Those are keys to success.
Chefs are educators in a way – what do you want your guests to know about the food at Caliza and here on the Gulf Coast?
There is more here than just shrimp and grits. And I love shrimp and grits by the way… But I want them to experience something new and unexpected such as how delicious lesser known gulf seafood such as Black Drum or Lion fish can be. Or that this area has the number one rated eggs in the country just an hour away at Twin Oaks Farm. Or that Florida does have more great produce than just citrus.
What is your personal comfort food or what dish do you enjoy preparing most?
Comfort food for me is Mac n Cheese. Hands down. Dish I enjoy preparing most is harder….I really enjoy creating composed pasta dishes. Not just your typical bowl of noodles….something that has a little more thought put into it.
