Podcast Episode 103: Chef Michael Cimarusti of Providence in Los Angeles

Fresh Sea Scallop
By Michael Cimarusti
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In this episode of the Find Dining podcast, Chef Michael Cimarusti, owner of Providence in Los Angeles, tells us about his culinary journey. We discuss his time cooking in France, the secrets of seafood, and his family's recent culinary travels in Europe. Restaurant critic Johnathan Gold of the Los Angeles Times named Providence on his Top 101 Restaurant List in 2013 and 2014.

Paul Nirens
Paul Nirens
  • Chef Michael and his wife studied under Larry Forgione at American Place

  • Compare the formality of Le Cirque to the causal elegance of Spago

  • Michael shaped his first menu at Water Grill

  • When in England, it's okay to bring the kids to Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

  • Find J Sheekey in the Theatre District of London

  • Zio's is a great old school restaurant

  • Head to Seasalter to eat at the pub at the Sportsman

  • When in France, dine at Arpege, Le Coquillage, or be a guest at Michel Bras' inn

  • When in Spain, enjoy tapas at Arzak in San Sebastian

1. Food For Thought

  • Q: To what did Julia Child attribute her longevity and good health?
Prawns (photo by Lisa Cohen)
Prawns (photo by Lisa Cohen)
  • A: A steady diet of red meat and gin.

2. Out of the Frying Pan Picks

  • Influential cooking shows or books: Le Livre de Michel Bras, Simply French: Patricia Wells Presents the Cuisine of Joel Robuchon
Fresh Sea Scallop
Fresh Sea Scallop
  • Favorite local merchants/farmers: Sea Stephanie Fish

  • Dish for newly adventurous eaters: uni in champagne reduction

  • Favorite beverage to pair with seafood: wine or sake

  • Great place to get dinner for under $20: Pizzeria Mozza

  • Chefs to watch in Los Angeles: Josiah Citrin at Melisse, Jon and Vinny at Animal, Jeremy Fox at Rustic Canyon, Chad Colby of chi Spacca

  • Advice for up-and-coming chefs: Work hard, stay inspired, and learn the history

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