Chef Profile:
Eric Riley
Verandah Cafe
Verandah Cafe: Chef Eric Riley
As a veteran to the culinary industry, it is without a doubt that Chef Eric Riley executes a mastery level of cooking in Verandah Cafe’s kitchen, located in the Holiday Inn Sunspree Resort (1706 N. Lumina Avenue) on Wrightsville Beach. A graduate of Joliet Junior College with a culinary degree, Riley took time to address some important questions encore had, pertaining to his career.
encore: How long have you worked in the restaurant industry?
Chef Eric Riley: Since 1977
e: What have you learned to be the most important trait and skill to have in the kitchen?
ER: Determination, patience and willingness to work hard.
e: What has been your most amazing day as a chef?
ER: The day in 1987 that I fed President and Mrs. Reagan.
e: How long have you been at the current restaurant?
ER: Since February 2008.
e: Do you have a signature dish?
ER: Parmesan scallops.
e: What can diners expect of your menu during WRW, fall 2010?
ER: Fall’s favorite flavors!
e: What do you love most about Wilmington’s culinary scene, and if you had a magic wand to wave for improvement, what would be the first order of business?
ER: Nice variety of restaurants. Would love a real N.Y. kosher-style deli.
e: What is your favorite meal?
ER: Breakfast for dinner.
e: What is your guilty pleasure?
ER: Ice cream.
