“We [the kitchen staff] poke around at the farmers’ markets and snag what inspires us, what looks good; then we bring it back to the kitchen,” says Steve Corry, chef and co-owner (with his wife, Michelle) of 555. “We talk the menu through, and everyone has an opinion. Some are more vocal than others, but […]
Steve Corry, 555 Photo Credit : Robbins, Heath
“We [the kitchen staff] poke around at the farmers’ markets and snag what inspires us, what looks good; then we bring it back to the kitchen,” says Steve Corry, chef and co-owner (with his wife, Michelle) of 555. “We talk the menu through, and everyone has an opinion. Some are more vocal than others, but the cooks are all passionate and intense. Sometimes it goes through a few renditions before we’re all satisfied. Then it makes it to the menu.”
Steve and Michelle both spent time in California before settling back among their East Coast roots. That time in Napa codified their respect for local ingredients and their love of fine wines — both of which are front and center on Steve’s menus.
Before opening the doors, Steve was clear about his cooking style and what his operation would be, “but mostly I wanted to make sure that this would be a place for people who live here in Portland — not just for out-of-towners. We love seeing new faces for certain, but we’re also open seven nights a week, no matter the weather.”
555. 555 Congress St. 207-761-0555; fivefifty-five.com
