Over the next few weeks, Columbus Underground is taking a look at some of the amazing young talent in the kitchens of your favorite local restaurants, food trucks and other dining establishments in the relaunch of our series known as “New Columbus Chefs“.
Since opening in 2001, M at Miranova has often been cited by just about every local media outlet as one of the best fine dining options in the region. The restaurant is located in a beautiful space inside a beautiful building with a skyline view that only Milestone 229 comes close to matching. The menu at M is similarly upscale with surf and turf staples fit for a very special occasion. We spoke recently with Chef Jeff Rabold about his background at M.
Name: Jeff Rabold
Age: 35
Current Job: Sous Chef at M restaurant of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants
Can you tell us about your training/educational experience?
I Attended Johnson and Wales university where I achieved an associates degree in Culinary Arts and a Bachelor’s in Foodservice Management.
Can you tell us about your professional kitchen experience?
I worked in a cafe in South Beach, Miami, 39 Rue De Jean in Charleston, South Carolina, The Marriott in Marco Island, Florida, I was Sous Chef at The Refectory Restaurant in Columbus, Ohio for six years and now I am Sous Chef at M.
What is your favorite cuisine to cook?
My favorite cuisine would have to be French.
What is your favorite cuisine to eat?
What one kitchen utensil/tool could you never live without?
The one kitchen utensil that I have to have is a rubber spatula.
What’s your favorite cookbook?
I am a fan of any cookbook that I can take at least three things out of that educate me, make me excited, and is practical enough to apply in my kitchen.
What is your favorite Columbus restaurant (besides your own)?
My favorite restaurant has somewhat recently closed down and that was The Burgundy Room. I was a sucker for their Beef Carpaccio.
Who are your inspirational figures in the culinary world?
Well, I was first inspired by Chef Richard Blondin of The Refectory. He’s the one that made me want to pursue the Culinary Arts as a career.
What is your dream job?
The culinary scene in Columbus is rapidly growing. The amount of privately owned restaurants seems to have nearly doubled since I began in the industry in 1997.
What do you think about the “foodie” scene in Columbus?
The “foodie” scene in Columbus, again is growing at a fast pace. There are a lot of people out there that really know what they’re talking about.
Tell us one food-related fact about yourself that few people know.
I’m still trying to figure out how to make toast… eight times out of ten I’ll burn it.
To sample some of Chef Jeff Rabold’s cuisine, head to www.matmiranova.com.
Photo by Chris Walker Photography.