Name: Michael Saef
Restaurant: The Range Bar and Grille
Town: Hingham, MA
Background:
I’ve been working in the Hospitality industry, in Massachusetts, for over 25 years. Opening the Range and leading BOH operations for the past four years has been my best achievement yet!!
Q1 What is your first or best memory of cooking and who was it with?
As a teenager, I started cooking at the 99 in Rockland. I didn’t cook much before that, besides cooking on the backyard grill. I fit right in with the #cheflife; working nights then going out with the crew and then back at it the next day. No day is ever the same in the kitchen. I jumped in with both feet and never looked back.
Q2 What is your most popular dish on your menu?
The Range has developed into a local hot spot. Family and friends come and watch “the game,” sit on the patio, use the driving range and people watch, therefore, I can’t name just one. Our most popular dishes are shareable appetizers, salads and sandwiches, like our buffalo chicken dip or pulled pork poutine. Our seasonal strawberry salad was our best seller last summer. Also, our prime burgers are the best around.
Q3 What is your favorite dish to make on your menu.
When I cook on line I love to work sauté station. I have a pan-roasted filet mignon with a black garlic rub on the menu right now. What I enjoy about making it is getting the perfect sear and temp. When I get it just right, the guest will have an amazing experience and will be back.
Q4 What do you eat when you are not working/favorite thing to eat?
When I am not working, I enjoy oysters, maki rolls and things that I do not prepare at the restaurant. I have tried all types of food being a chef. There are not many things I do not like.
Q5 Person you would most like to cook for (anyone, including a celebrity or historical figure)?
I get the most satisfaction from cooking for my family and friends. Whether it’s an intimate dinner for two or a party of 20., there’s nothin’ like home cookin’ for the ones you love.
Q6 Favorite vacation spots, not necessarily food related?
We normally do not travel very far from home. A couple of my favorites are the Riverwalk in Lincoln, New Hampshire and Mirabeau Inn and Spa, in Plymouth, MA. The Riverwalk is next to Loon Mountain. So much to do there summer or winter. Mirabeau Spa is a special treat for a couple nights a year.
Q7 Not your own spot, what is your favorite restaurant?
My favorite spot is The Galley, in Scituate. I was thrilled to have a tapas-style restaurant in my town. They also have nice raw bar offerings, a craft beer list., good ownership and a strong staff. My daughter works there, too. I enjoy a meal or a beverage there on my days off!
Some of our Favorite Photos from Chef Mike Saef
