Executive Chef Joel Smith comes to The Vintage Chophouse with an eagerness to expand his culinary skills, extend his creativity in menu development and to fuel his passion for the food & beverage industry. Joel is a native Calgarian whose love for food has developed over the last 15 years working in the industry, and watching how passionate other chefs are about what they are able to create everyday.
Joel is especially proud of the beef served at The Chophouse. As a result of using the best beef available in Canada, when it is butchered and served properly, it speaks for itself. His goal is to keep the menu simple and contemporary while using seasonal ingredients from local suppliers, whenever possible.
On a recent trip to Spain for a food conference, Joel was able to appreciate the different philosophies and cooking methods of international chefs who had gathered from around the globe. Taking a step back from the everyday working of his kitchen enabled him to gain a different perspective upon his return. Joel feels like the opportunities in Calgary are endless, and as a result it has and will always feel like home.
Favourite Ingredient: Pork ("pork bacon just seems to make anything better")
Favourite Kitchen Utensil: 8" inch chef blade
