Show 257, January 20, 2018: Executive Chef Pascal Olhats, Pascal San Juan Capistrano & The Gray Event

Pascal OlhatsChef Pascal Olhats of Pascal San Juan Capistrano is recognized as the Dean of French Chefs in Orange County. He’s mentored numerous rising star chefs now cooking in Orange County. 2018 marks his 30th year of being a restaurateur in Orange County. There will be special celebrations and menus to commemorate this worthy occasion.

Culinary pioneer Chef Paul Bocuse, sadly, passed away in France on Saturday. Chef Pascal knew Chef Paul personally from his earlier career days in France, and actually worked for him in his flagship restaurant in Lyon. In the 90s Chef Bocuse visited Traditions by Pascal in Newport Beach to dine. Pascal shares some fond memories to start the interview.

On Sunday, February 25th Pacal is hosting the 2nd year of The Gray Event benefit at Sherman Gardens to raise needed funds for the Save Elephant Foundation to rescue at-risk elephants in Thailand. Tickets for the elegant, seated 4-course dinner featuring the flavors of Thailand are $250, and Reception-only tickets with Thai appetizers and creative cocktails, beer and wine are $125.

Pascal Olhats is an extraordinary French born, and trained, Executive Chef, and polished restaurateur. He has won numerous awards, owning and collaborating on a number of restaurants in Newport Beach over the past 30-years.

He currently owns four businesses, including: Café Jardin Restaurant & Pascal’s Tea Garden Creperie (on the lush grounds of Sherman Gardens & Library in Corona del Mar), Pascal’s Café in San Juan Capistrano (a café/ bakery/ fine dining establishment), and Pascal’s Catering (offering full-service catering for 20 years throughout Southern California).

Pascal also partners with Manassero Farms in Irvine, and orchestrates breakfasts, dinners, and incredible special events, often showcasing guest chefs.

We’ll chat with Chef Pascal.