MEET THE CHEF: Bernard Lucas of Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar in Grand Rapids, Michigan

BY TRIPVEEL EDITORIAL STAFF | February 2020

Tripveel sat down with Executive Chef Bernard Lucas of Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Executive Chef Bernard Lucas of Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar in Grand Rapids, Michigan

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

I grew up on the East side of Michigan. In Marysville, just one hour north of Detroit. I have been able to live, work and travel to places like Boston, New York City, Seattle, Las Vegas and parts of Florida. Having worked and visited places that were right on the water really helped shape my philosophy of how important and amazing it is to use fresh fish and seafood. 

Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Tell our readers an interesting fact or two about yourself. 

An interesting fact about myself is that I did not go to culinary school. I have worked my way up from dishwasher, working every position in the kitchen, up to executive chef. I have been in the restaurant business for 35 years. Another interesting fact is that I am an executive chef for a seafood restaurant, but I actually dislike eating fish (I do enjoy eating seafood though!). 

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

My favorite food is a really big, thick cut steak prepared rare.

Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar in Grand Rapids, Michigan

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

Butter, bacon and garlic.

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

Creating with different colors, textures and flavors that all work together without over powering the protein.

Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Share your most recent awards and accreditations with us! 

Being nominated as Grand Rapids number one place for seafood, fish and steaks. Leo’s was recently awarded the title of “Best Seafood Restaurant” and “Best Restaurant Service” in Grand Rapids, Michigan by Grand Rapids Magazine 2019-2020 Readers Poll. 

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

Still....and should be, farm-to-table. Using the freshest and best quality ingredients you can get your hands on. Also, you see a lot of infusions going on. 

What’s your favorite cocktail or liquor?

I don't drink that often, but when I do it's when I have gone out to dinner with my wife. We normally share a bottle of wine something that pairs really well with whatever we're having for dinner. 

What do you love about being the Executive Chef at Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar in Grand Rapids, Michigan?

Organizing all aspects of the kitchen, seeing everything coming together to satisfy our guests. The high standards that we all uphold at Leo's Restaurant, everyone from the kitchen staff, the front of the house staff, the management and ownership. I’m proud of leading this team.