I first encountered the cuisine of Roland Passot at the legendary La Folie in San Francisco what feels like decades ago, mostly like because it was. Times have changed, and Passot has kept up with them—and then some—with his growing Bay Area culinary empire.
What do you do? I am a chef and restaurateur, part owner in Vine Dining Hospitality, which includes Left Bank (Larkspur, Menlo Park, Santana Row, Jack London Square), LB Steak (Santana Row, Bishop Ranch), Meso (Santana Row) and Petite LB (Tiburon).
Where do you live? Mill Valley, California.
How long have you lived in Marin? 30 years.
Where can we find you when you are not at work? On my bike or on the bay sailing with my friend, Laurent.
If you had to convince someone how awesome Marin is, where would you take them? On the trails to Mt. Tam and Marin Headland, Redwoods and above Stinson Beach, Seven Sisters for the fabulous view.
What is one thing Marin is missing? More reservoirs. We need to be prepared for lack of water for our farmers and for our future.
What’s one bit of advice you’d share with your fellow Marinites? Take the time to enjoy each moment. Marin is magical.
If you could invite anyone to a special dinner, who would they be? Antoine de St. Exupery, Escoffier Careme and Marquis de Lafayette.
What is some advice you wish you knew 20 years ago? Slow down and take time for your family.
What is something that in 20 years from now will seem cringeworthy? Social media behaviors.
Big question. What is one thing you’d do to change the world? Focus on education, sustainable practices. Being more compassionate, less political and more actions. Better healthcare for all.
Read more about Passot’s restaurants at vinehospitality.com
Nish Nadaraja was on the founding team at Yelp, serves on the San Anselmo Arts Commission and attempts to play pickleball at Fairfax’s Cañon Club.
I love this interview with the amazing chef, Roland Passot! He is a local talent and treasure! I met him when he first opened La Folie and miss seeing him, Jamie and George on Polk street in SF! I love knowing he is relaxing more and spending time enjoying beautiful Marin!