21 North Restaurant In Martinsville, Indiana: Meet The Chef
5 Reasons to Visit® sat down with Chef and Owner Matthew Harakal of 21 North and The Chef's Table at 21 North in Martinsville, Indiana.
Source: 21 North in Martinsville, Indiana
Where did you grow up, and where have you traveled to that has helped inspire and shape your cooking philosophy?
I grew up in Hartford, Ohio and traveled all over the place. I’ve been influenced by French, Latin and Southern cuisines. My cooking philosophy is to cook with love and create a great experience.
Source: 21 North in Martinsville, Indiana
Tell our readers an interesting fact or two about yourself that reflects your cooking style?
I've trained under French Master Chefs, 3-Star Michelin Chefs and Southern cooks. All of them are very passionate about what they do.
Tell us about your absolute favorite food and why readers should try it if they haven’t already.
Spanish and Latin cuisine. So many wonderful flavors in Spain, Portugal and Latin America. Try everything!
Source: 21 North in Martinsville, Indiana
What are three ingredients that you simply couldn’t live without?
Garlic, saffron and truffle.
We love the art behind plating. What do you love about designing the perfect dish?
I actually start with a color scheme once I know what I'm working with. I take into consideration the time of year, complimentary flavors, shape. No dish is ever perfect but we drive ourselves to try to create it.
Source: 21 North in Martinsville, Indiana
Tell us about one of the most creative dishes you’ve created?
Duck Galantine—with carrot and ginger puree and luxardo cherry gastrique. I was always amazed with old school chefs and the commitment they had for preparing those labor intensive dishes. You don't see it enough nowadays.
What is one of your greatest accomplishments and/or recent awards you've earned?
Going from Executive Chef to Chef & Proprietor, and enjoying it.
What are some of the latest trends you’re seeing in top restaurants across the globe?
Anything that is considered a trend is already passé. Great chefs are already on to something else.
What’s your favorite cocktail or beverage of choice?
Water! My younger self would enjoy a nice Southern bourbon or Bordeaux.
Source: 21 North in Martinsville, Indiana