By Teddy Smith
I have always loved cooking for other people. I began at home at an early age, preparing dishes for my mother and to entertain friends. All of my work history has been in the food industry and began with a position as a dishwasher in junior high. I trained in classic French and completed an apprenticeship at Chez Gerard in Hopwood, PA, under Chef William Severac. I worked for three years as a sous chef with Chef William where I refined my French technique. As an apprentice, I received several awards in competitions.
I started at Stefano’s in Morgantown when it opened about a year ago. I really enjoy my work here because I am encouraged to create and cook dishes that blend the American and Italian flavors. One of the things I love about Stefano’s is that when you walk in, it is like walking into a New York restaurant. Shera Lorenze, the manager and designer, has done a great job with using a modern decor of black, chrome, blue crystal lighting, geometric tables and white dinnerware along with balanced flatware and elegant stemware. One wall is covered with a glass encased wine rack with an extensive selection of fine wines. Recently, Stefano’s received recognition for best presentation at the Taste of Morgantown, a Red Cross benefit held at Lakeview Resort.
Our food is a variety of American-Italian fusion. Some of our favorite dishes include crab and artichoke-topped Halibut and prosciutto-wrapped sea bass. We also enjoy some of the Italian classics such as veal romano and chicken piccata. We change the menu with each season and use only the freshest ingredients. Seafood is flown in twice a week and all the steaks are hand-cut, USDA prime beef. We also make all the desserts in-house.
We have started a monthly wine and food pairing at Stefano’s. Dinner includes five courses paired with four wines. Previous months have included wines from Southern Italy and France. October’s pairing featured wines from California. Visit our Web site for future offerings at www.stefanosmorgantown.com.
Ask for the chef and I will do my best to prepare for you your favorite dish!
