Art and good food? We have both at the Dallas Museum of Art. The Cafe at the DMA offers a simple, yet elegant menu with a unique setting. We are sharing the secret with you about what makes the food and experience in the Cafe so special, and who better to tell us than the head chef himself?
Chef Brian has been our Executive Chef at the Cafe since late September. He discovered his love for cooking at the age of 5, and since then has been working in great kitchens throughout North Texas. Now, he creates food to complement the various exhibitions at the Museum. Here’s our “behind-the-scenes” interview with him:
Uncrated: What are some of the dishes you’ve created inspired by art at the DMA?
Chef Brian: “This is one of my favorite parts of my job – when we have new exhibitions. I not only get to learn about the works of art being featured in the exhibition, but I get to research the cuisine from the region that they come from.
The Mourners exhibition by far has been the most thrilling for me as a Chef. We were charged with putting on a dinner inspired by Michelin-starred chefs from Dijon, France. With the African Masks exhibition, I got to really dive into some South African, Gambian, and Northern African cuisine, to create some of my newest favorite things– – South African Honey Cake with Abuelita Pudding and White Chocolate Anglaise. I make this treat at home for myself!”
Uncrated: What was your favorite exhibition?
Chef Brian: “J.M.W. Turner . The masterpieces that were shown brought such wonderment to my eyes. That’s the one thing I love about art: No matter how old or new the work may be, you never know how it can affect you in a positive way and lift your spirits when they need lifting.”
Uncrated: How does your team prepare for Late Nights at the DMA?
Chef Brian: “I think that Late Nights at the Museum is one of the best attractions in Dallas. We take a look at what programs and activities are going to happen that night at the museum, and try to plan accordingly with the theme and feel that the DMA is going for. We keep it simple, so that food can be enjoyed by everyone, from the little artist to the art lovers.”
Uncrated: What’s the best thing about having lunch at the Cafe at the DMA?
Chef Brian: “When I go to a restaurant, I’m looking for an experience. Well, what better place to sit down and have a bite to eat than the DMA? Besides being surrounded by priceless works of art, the menu is very bistro and friendly to almost every type of eater. For me, to eat great classic food with fresh products surrounded by incredibleart is a win-win for all.”
Check out the Cafe menu online.
