It would be hard to find any similarities between West Marin County and Las Vegas. But for chef Les Goodman, a culinary career spanning 25 years is the connecting point from his hometown of Las Vegas to Marshall, leading up the kitchen at Lodge at Marconi’s brand new restaurant, Mable’s.
Goodman has a passion for exploring different cultures and cuisines from across the globe, as well as imparting his knowledge with others through a collaborative approach with his staff. He also serves as associate faculty chef instructor at Santa Rosa Junior College, teaching the next generation about global influences in modern cuisine.
Having settled in Sonoma County more than 15 years ago, he previously served as executive chef and CEO of Goodman’s Jewish Delicatessen in that same county. Outside the kitchen, he enjoys family time, traveling, outdoor exploration and gardening.
Amber Turpin: What is your job?
Les Goodman: Executive chef at Mable’s at Lodge at Marconi
How did you get into this work?
My mother would tell you that I started as a toddler trying to make myself some eggs. I had the pan on the stove, eggs in the pan, but didn’t know how to turn the burner on, thankfully.
I grew up watching a lot of PBS cooking shows in the ’80s and early ’90s. Then in 8th grade I had a choice between doing a science project and a mentor program. I chose the mentor program and was able to secure a stint with Andre Rochat back home in Las Vegas. I had to work a full dinner service on a Saturday night and never looked back.
Did you ever have an ‘aha’ moment with a certain beverage? If so, tell us about it.
That’s a hard one. There have been some new types and styles of wines that I have been introduced to that I love, like a delicious assyrtiko from Greece or the newest varietal being a picpoul, which some wineries are moving towards because of its sustainability aspect of not needing as much water as most grapes.
What is your favorite thing to drink at home?
Wine with dinner. But at the end of the night, I stick with whisky, scotch, rye or bourbon.
Where do you like to go out for a drink?
I don’t go out to drink that often, but Lo and Behold in Healdsburg or Fern Bar in Sebastopol have some great drinks.
If you were stuck on a desert island, what would you want to be drinking (besides fresh water)?
It’s an island, so something refreshing: a mojito or caipirinha-style drink.
Mable’s at Lodge at Marconi, 18500 Hwy. 1, Marshall, 415.663.9020. mablesrestaurant.com.
