Everyone knows that the best parties always end in the kitchen. With our series, Kitchen Party, we’re sitting down with Feast On Chefs to get to know them, and the local foods that inspire them, a little better.
Mark Jones
Lumbertown Ale House
Arnprior, ON
ontarioculinary.com/lumbertown-ale-house
What’s your favourite seasonal ingredient?
Fresh Mixed Greens, In the summertime, we get ours for the restaurant from Terramor Farm in Burnstown. The quality and taste of fresh, crisp greens picked that morning is amazing.
What’s your drink of choice?
Old Fashioned with Woodford Reserve Bourbon or a glass of red wine (Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon)
Most underrated ingredient?
I would probably have to say one of the ingredients I use a lot that doesn’t get any credit would be citrus! A nice squeeze of lemon or lime in a recipe or on a dish can add just the pop you were looking for. Helps intensify flavours, adds a little acidity, and sometimes just helps round out a dish.
What’s your ‘desert island’ movie?
Well that’s a hard one, I would have to say off the top of my head “The Blind Side.” Found it a well-rounded movie, some drama, action and comedy all rolled up in one.
What’s the best part of working with Ontario food and drink?
Working and Meeting with Local Farmers, Producers, and Other Chefs that like to support local.
Why is Feast On important to you and the uniqueness of your restaurant and catering?
It’s all about supporting the community, the small businesses and helping grow awareness of Ontario products. Ontario has a lot to offer from craft breweries to small family farms. Feast On is a great network for Chefs, Farmers and Producers to meet, share ideas and help inspire each other, while helping the community grow.
If you could only eat one dish, what would it be?
I would love to say some crazy dish, but most likely it would be pizza, there is a lot of different options, and there’s just something comforting about a good slice.
What does your ‘Perfect Weekend’ in Arnprior look like?
Nice relaxing day on my deck with the sun out, enjoying the view with my wife and dog, listening to music, maybe a crossword and then firing up the BBQ.
