Celebrating Matt Louis and Evan Mallett’s James Beard Nomination

Last week, here in Portsmouth, we got to celebrate two of our fantastic restaurants (and Music Hall sponsors) as their chefs were nominated for the prestigious James Beard Award, the Oscars of the culinary world. Matt Louis, Chef and owner of Moxy and my favorite happy hour in town The Franklin Oyster House, who trained at Per Se and The French Laundry and Evan Mallett, the Chef and owner of the Black Trumpet, with roots that trace back to the kitchen at Lindbergs Crossings. Both have been instrumental in shaping Portsmouth’s robust food scene. Not only in the surge of farm-to-table concepts, (fun fact: many local restaurants either have their own farms or work almost exclusively with local farmers) but in the creation of the collaborative chef culture.  A culture that proves that rising tides really do lift all boats, and a culture that we are so proud to watch flourish as we experience their menus.

One of the many fabulous things about working here at TMH is the emphasis on culture, not just experiencing it, but helping to create a culture that’s collaborative, educational, and entertaining. An ethos that is shared by the countless talented chefs in this town. Also, shameless plug, Happy Hour at Franklin Oyster is from 4-6pm every day and features $1.25 oysters with $0.25 going back to The Music Hall. You might even find Chef Matt Louis shucking your oysters.

And check out Seven Fingers of the Hand, coming to the Historic Theater on April 19, to see kitchen life through the perspective of a cirque troupe. Complete with cooking and doing dishes.