Chef Manny Velasco

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November/December 2012

By Chef Katie Averill

Chef Manny Velasco is the super sous chef at Savannah Chop House. With major staying power, he has been at the top through ten years and five executive chefs. Manny’s enthusiasm and seemingly endless energy are a requirement for his busy work life. In addition to his full time position at Savannah, Manny works a complete morning shift as executive chef running the brand new Carmelita’s in Laguna Beach.

Manny is devoted to running the back of the house. He and Executive Chef Chris Tzorin make a great team. When they create dishes together, Manny is passionate about making sure the food and the cooks are ready to go, while Chris is more likely to be amongst the customers making sure they love the menu.

Manny has earned his position at Savannah. Since the age of seventeen he has worked all around Orange County, from Marie Calender’s to the Montage. Manny loves working at Savannah and makes sure that he puts his touch on every plate that goes out.

Chef/Owner EAT STREET

[email protected]

Please visit www.eatstreetculinary.com for latest on cooking classes.

Savannah Chop House
32441 Golden Lantern
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677

Savannahchophouse.net

Sun – Thurs 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Fri – Sat 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Bar & Lounge: Open nightly 4:30pm – closing
Average cover – $45

Chef de Cuisine Jose Manny Velasco

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST HOSPITALITY JOB? Marie Callender’s

WHAT WOULD YOU BE IF NOT A CHEF? A lawyer

YOUR FAVORITE SPICE? Cumin

YOUR FAVORITE KITCHEN TOOL? Tongs

WHICH FOOD SOURCE DO YOU RECOMMEND MOST? Produce at Melissas.com, Trader Joes, and Whole Foods

BIGGEST MYTH ABOUT WORKING IN THE KITCHEN? That you get a day off; you work even while you’re sleeping!

SIGNATURE OR FAVORITE DISH TO MAKE? Veal steaks

FAVORITE OC RESTAURANT: Carmelita’s

FAVORITE DISH TO EAT: Filet

FAVORITE JUNK FOOD: Tacos

FAVORITE RAW INGREDIENT: Spinach

FAVORITE FAST FOOD: Burgers

PREVIOUS INDUSTRY EMPLOYERS: Montage Hotel , , Sundried Tomato

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