Freemason Abbey Restaurant In Norfolk, Virginia: Meet The Chef
We sat down with Executive Chef Matthew Bugarin of Freemason Abbey Restaurant in Norfolk, Virginia. Freemason Abbey has been a part of Norfolk’s history since the 19th century. Housed in a 150 year-old renovated church, Freemason Abbey has been a local’s favorite restaurant in the heart of downtown Norfolk for 35 years.
Image: Freemason Abbey Restaurant In Norfolk, Virginia
The menu at Freemason Abbey Restaurant features fresh seafood, steaks, pasta dishes, and their award-winning She Crab Soup.
1. Tell us about what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?
In the morning I'm an hour early for everything, nothing but water until the afternoon.
Image: Freemason Abbey Restaurant In Norfolk, Virginia
Snuggles with family in the evening.
2. Do you have any awards or achievements you’d like to mention?
I won a meatball competition in culinary school.
3. Do you have a favorite chef that you look up to and what advice would you give to aspiring chefs?
Anthony Bourdain. I would advise to work the problems, be inspirational, take risks!
Image: Freemason Abbey Restaurant In Norfolk, Virginia
4. What do you typically cook at home?
I cook all the time, but my wife is the chef at home.
5. What’s a food trend that you’re loving right now and why?
Open space plating of mini desserts and getting creative!
Image: Freemason Abbey Restaurant In Norfolk, Virginia
6. What’s the strangest food combination you’ve ever tried? And, did you like it?
Dinuguan, a Filipino blood stew with pork intestines and tripe... One of my favorite dishes.
7. Have you ever cooked for a celebrity? Do you have a story to tell?
I used to cook Bruce Smith crabs, and being a Cowboys fan, I asked if he would tackle me.
Image: Freemason Abbey Restaurant In Norfolk, Virginia
8. What’s your Instagram so readers can follow you?
It’s @matt_b_chillin and @freemasonabbey.
9. What cocktail or beverage do you enjoy most?
An Old Fashioned.
Image: Freemason Abbey Restaurant In Norfolk, Virginia
10. Tell our readers why they should visit Freemason Abbey in Norfolk, Virginia?
Exciting and inventive specials with Wild Game Night. You will get the opportunity to try things not found in grocery stores.
