Ludvig's Bistro Restaurant In Sitka, Alaska: Meet The Chef
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We sat down with Executive Chef Edith Johnson of Ludvig's Bistro in Sitka, Alaska. Here, you’ll savor rustic Mediterranean fare specializing in fresh, Alaskan seafood and hand-crafted specialty foods and baked bread.
Executive Chef Edith Johnson of Ludvig's Bistro in Sitka, Alaska
Ludvig’s Bistro is an incredible culinary experience that should be a requirement when visiting Sitka, Alaska.
Where did you grow up, and where have you traveled to that has helped inspire and shape your cooking philosophy?
I grew up on a small 14-mile long island in Southeast Alaska, called Sitka. Surrounded by ocean and eating seafood my whole life has naturally given me a passion for cooking fresh seafood.
Ludvig's Bistro in Sitka, Alaska
Tell our readers an interesting fact or two about yourself that reflects your cooking style?
I am Tlingit, a Southeast Alaskan Indigenous Tribe. I appreciate being able to modern food using indigenous ingredients that my ancestors used, it makes me feel a personal connection to the food I cook and Serve, and it beings me joy to be able to share that.
Tell us about your absolute favorite food and why readers should try it if they haven’t already.
Halibut cheeks! I can’t even type this without smiling. It was part of my childhood, but there is just something about the flavor and texture, you want to gobble it up. Once you’ve had halibut cheeks you can’t hardly wait to share it with others, it’s just a delicacy.
Ludvig's Bistro in Sitka, Alaska
What are three ingredients that you simply couldn’t live without?
Butter, salt and garlic.
We love the art behind plating. What do you love about designing the perfect dish?
The autonomy of being the artist from start to finish, you created all the elements on the plate and as a chef you want it to be delicious but also look amazing before they dig in. I just love playing with sauces, colors and micro greens. You can tell when a chef loves their craft when a plate hits the table and you see the way it’s plated, its just makes me so happy.
Ludvig's Bistro in Sitka, Alaska
Tell us about one of the most creative dishes you’ve cooked up?
My favorite thing to make is an herb, garlic and lemon pasta with fiddleheads, local mushrooms, and halibut cheeks.
What is one of your greatest accomplishments or awards you've earned?
2022 Alaska’s “Top 40 Under 40”
2022 and 2023 Alaska’s “Best Caterer Foraker Award”
Ludvig's Bistro in Sitka, Alaska
What are some of the latest trends you’re seeing in top restaurants across the globe?
Traveling down south, especially California, you see these small plates with lovely flowers, sauces and dainty portions, I love that the time to make the plate is taken. I hope that the farm-to-table movement never goes away, supporting local farmers that also love their craft is just so special.
What’s your favorite cocktail or beverage of choice?
Gloria Ferrar sparkling wine is my favorite across the board.
Ludvig's Bistro in Sitka, Alaska
What do you love about being the Executive Chef of Ludvig's Bistro in Sitka, Alaska?
My staff, they are all so kind. I swear I feel like I won the staffing lottery, I just adore and appreciate them so incredibly much.
Note: This information was accurate when this article was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
