MEET THE CHEF: Thomas Humbock of Swing Wine Bar in Olympia, Washington

BY TRIPVEEL EDITORIAL STAFF | November 2019

Tripveel sat down with Executive Chef Thomas Humbock of Swing Wine Bar in Olympia, Washington.

Executive Chef Thomas Humbock of Swing Wine Bar in Olympia, Washington

Where did you grow up and where have you traveled to that has helped inspire and shape your cooking philosophy? 

I grew up in San Diego, California and Olympia, Washington. I've traveled to Atlanta, Cincinnati, Providence, Kansas City, Dallas/Fort Worth. Every location has wonderful and unique culinary gems and techniques.

Swing Wine Bar in Olympia, Washington

Tell our readers an interesting fact or two about yourself. 

While cooking for the Texas Rangers, I was honored to cook for former President George H. W. Bush.

Tell us about your absolute favorite food and why readers should try it if they haven’t already. 

My absolute favorite food... Plum Tree Beef. I could eat it everyday! There are so many flavors and textures... sweet, crispy, salty, bitter, tangy and chewy... it tears the roof of your mouth up, but you just want more!

Swing Wine Bar in Olympia, Washington

What are three ingredients that you simply couldn’t live without? 

My must have ingredients are vinegar, salt and garlic.

We love the art behind plating. What do you love about designing the perfect dish?

There is no perfect dish, but when height, negative space, color and complexity marry together, it's a beautiful thing. Also, I love the 'wow' reaction wonderful plating produces.

Swing Wine Bar in Olympia, Washington

Tell us about one of the most creative dishes you’ve created?

Pan seared ostrich with a blood orange glace, Adirondack red gnocchi and brown sage butter, haricot verts. It was a really fun dish to make! The items were stacked and meticulously garnished.

Swing Wine Bar in Olympia, Washington

Share your most recent awards and accreditations with us! 

I really haven't pursued awards in a long time. We did receive an award for a chocolate ganache cake topped with candied Jalapeño bacon and Olympic Mountain vanilla bean ice cream, named the 'OMG' Cake.

What are some of the latest trends you’re seeing in top restaurants across the globe?

Everyone is eating smaller plates, sustainable ingredients, local sourcing with unique pairings.

What’s your favorite cocktail or liquor?

A Ketel One martini up with a twist, a Dark & Stormy is a close second.

What do you love about being the Executive Chef at Swing Wine Bar in Olympia, Washington?

Swing Wine Bar is a small operation and that allows me to be VERY hands on. It enables me to teach others, to bring in items and dishes that are accessible and different, and present them in creative ways.