MEET THE CHEF: Cheryl Bernacchi of Bistro on the Boulevard at The Boulevard Inn in St. Joseph, Michigan
We sat down with Executive Chef Cheryl Bernacchi of Bistro on the Boulevard at The Boulevard Inn in St. Joseph, Michigan. The Bistro on the Boulevard is an American restaurant that executes elevated, seasonal, modern American cuisine. The menu celebrates the bounties of Southwest Michigan strives to support local and regional farmers and producers. One goal is simple; to pair great food with great drink, and friendly yet refined service.
Bistro on the Boulevard at The Boulevard Inn in St. Joseph, Michigan
Chef Bernacchi's passion is to integrate the bountiful local ingredients by partnering with local farmers and producers. This, along with her devotion to culinary traditions, influences her style of “Seasonal, Modern American Cuisine.” She looks forward to introducing you to a one-of-a-kind experience that can only be found at Bistro on the Boulevard in St. Joseph, Michigan.
1. Tell us about what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?
I grab something light for breakfast, answer emails, and get organized for the day. If the weather permits and I have enough time, I grab a brisk walk around my neighborhood to jump start my day.
Bistro on the Boulevard at The Boulevard Inn in St. Joseph, Michigan
I always stay until close and have a 50-minute commute, which puts me home late. I use the commute to decompress and call my husband to touch base before he hits the hay.
2. Do you have any awards or achievements that you are you most proud of?
I’m grateful for my family and all of their support and I’m thankful to my Bistro team for helping to push The Bistro to the next level everyday. We are all very proud of the OpenTable “Diners’ Choice Award” we have received for the last three years. After all, making guests happy is what we strive for.
3. Do you have a favorite chef that you look up to and what advice would you give to aspiring chefs?
My favorite chef and mentor is Chef Rudy Paniagua. I was his apprentice when I first began in this business. He taught me just about everything I know. How to taste your food, respect the process, mise en place; you name it. Although he was hard on me, he pushed me to excel. I will be forever grateful.
Bistro on the Boulevard at The Boulevard Inn in St. Joseph, Michigan
For aspiring chefs I would tell them to be ready to work hard and to cook what your passionate about. If you love what you do, it will never feel like a job.
4. What do you typically cook at home for yourself or your family?
When I am home to cook, I generally prepare family favorites. This ranges from Chicken Cacciatore to Lobster Bisque, to Banana Pudding with vanilla wafers.
5. What’s a food trend that you’re loving right now and why?
I love the new spins on classic dishes and the emergence of the casual French bistro. I recently added Tournedos Rossini to our menu and it’s going over extremely well.
Bistro on the Boulevard at The Boulevard Inn in St. Joseph, Michigan
6. What’s the strangest food combination you’ve ever tried? And, did you like it?
Peanut butter and pickle sandwich. I am not a fan.
7. Have you ever cooked for a celebrity? Do you have a story to tell?
I had the opportunity to cook for Muhammad Ali at his home in Michigan. He was nice and very down to earth. I remember his favorite dish being the Bread Pudding with caramel sauce.
Bistro on the Boulevard at The Boulevard Inn in St. Joseph, Michigan
8. What’s your Instagram so that readers can follow you?
It’s @Cheryl.bernacchi.
9. What cocktail or beverage do you enjoy most?
A buttery chardonnay.
10. Tell our readers why they should visit Bistro on the Boulevard?
The Bistro on the Boulevard is a modern American restaurant that serves innovative dishes with a beautiful view of Lake Michigan and its amazing sunset. We celebrate the bounties of Southwest Michigan, and partner with local and regional farmers, and producers to execute the very best seasonal cuisine in the area.
Note: This information was accurate when this article was published, but can change without notice. Be sure to confirm all details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
