You are... Paul Grunberg, co-owner LAbattoir Restaurant, (217 Carrall St.), 604-568-1701?, LAbattoir.ca
Describe the theme of your restaurant... The scene at LAbattoir can be best described as post fine dining, meaning we offer all the trims that come with a fine dining experience, but without the frills. We offer a casual environment but were very serious about our food, cocktail and wine programs.
We might also find you dining out at... Nicli Antica Pizzeria on Powell Street is where I eat about 50 per cent of my meals: lunch, dinner, and after work. Their pizza is always good and always fresh. Its authentic, just like in Italy. For anyone interested in stalking me, Im at Refuel pretty much every Sunday. Sitting on a stool there is one part entertainment and one part dining. The chefs there are artists, the food is very thoughtful, and they serve the best burger in the city.
Your dream dinner date... Id like to dine with Anthony Bourdain. Aside from being a successful author and TV host, hes such an interesting, outspoken individual. I see the evening as a mash-up of discussing all things culinary and slurping down Balut.
Last nights dinner... It was in the stands at Nat Bailey Stadium: a hot dog, salted peanuts and a beer. Not bad, right?
If you had a date with the electric chair, your last meal order would be... On that very sad day (wonder what I did?), Id ask for a dry aged rib-eye with French fries and creamed spinach from one of the best in town, Hys Steakhouse.
Youd gag if you ate... Anchovies. Everything about them is unappetizing.
Youd be happiest at Happy Hour with... A Tommys Margarita: tequila, lime and agave syrup. The best things in life need no improvements.
Secret treats... I eat Mars bars and I dont share. My Gramma used to bring them for us when I was growing up. Tastes from childhood have a way of sticking with you.
Youd take a long flight in economy class for that one meal in... Robertas in Brooklyn, New York. Good old American beef, cheddar, plain white bun, cooked to medium rare with lettuce, tomato and mustard.
Culinary confession... On the very first day of my first vacation in years, I ate something very wrong. What was supposed to be an indulgent vacation in Maui ended up with me locking myself in my hotel room and booking an early flight home early to avoid a mounting hospital bill.
Menu suggestion for a hassle-free, sit-down dinner party for six... Slather some chickens in butter and fresh herbs, chop up a mix of root vegetables and throw it all in the oven. I like to whip up a broccoli and/or cauliflower gratin to serve alongside as well. Dessert would be Neapolitan ice cream served on cones.
