After successful runs in Chicago, Denver, and Washington D.C., executive chef Brandon Brumback has returned to his hometown. Brumback—who began his career at the age of 16 right here in the metro—is now at the helm of the iconic Savoy Restaurant located downtown inside 21C Museum Hotel Kansas City.
Brumback says his style is rooted in French technique and driven by seasonality. He’s a fan of classic dishes with modern spins that complement his menu. And given The Savoy’s history (and lineage), his fun, yet approachable culinary style will be a welcome addition.
We caught up with the Brumback to find out five things you don’t know about the culinary pro:
5) I am originally from KC.
“I left right after high school and have lived all over the country and also overseas.”
4) I’m an avid outdoorsman.
“I hunt all waterfowl, deer, and elk. I’ve grew up hunting with my grandfather and friends. I also enjoy fishing, although I don’t get out very often anymore. My favorite game to cook is redhead duck.”
3) My favorite movie is David Bowie’s Labyrinth.
“The music is what I love about it. Obviously, the costumes were pretty spectacular, but David Bowie is a once-in-a-generation talent whose career spanned five decades. He made it okay to be different and was not ashamed of being who he was.”
2) I’ve traveled to 21 countries …
“… spanning from North and South America to Europe and Asia. France and Germany both sit at the top of my favorite countries list. And the best part of travel? All the food research. I could travel just for ironed raclette cheese and spaetzle alone.”
1) My favorite cuisine is avant garde French, but I can eat barbecue every day.
“It’s nice to be back in KC and surrounded by some of the best barbecue. I’ve been able to hit up Joe’s KC, Q39, Jack Stack, LCs, and Wyandotte since returning—and still have a long list to go!”