The fire is still burning.
“So bright,” says chef Mikey Adams.
In other words, after a stint as a private chef, Adams is ready to get back into restaurants.
“I really missed it,” he says.
That translates to great news for Santa Cruz diners—and to wood-fired flavor, appropriately enough—as Adams steps in as executive chef for downtown landmark Alderwood, reopening Friday, June 14.
When Edible reached him he was readying a tasting for his staff that will reflect his enthusiasm for fiery flavor.
“I just love cooking over wood fire,” he says.
His career has taken him from decorated spots around Northern California, including stops at now-departed Restaurant 1833 in Monterey, Proper in San Francisco and seafood-driven Angler on S.F.’s Embarcadero, where he helped it maintain a Michelin star, and the focus was also wood-fired.
He aims to spotlight fresh seafood, with a few meat dishes and a signature kale salad.
“Some of the hits,” he says. “I like to take the approach of food people are familiar with but still surprise them.”
He adds that his focus, beyond fire, is all about centering great produce and seasonal proteins.
“We have an abundance of amazing ingredients,” he says, adding, “Respect the ingredients. If you overwork them, they lose their soul.”
While private cheffing proved lucrative—and helpful for his young family— for the Surf City native, this opportunity represents a lifelong goal realized.
“I’m so stoked to be back and working in the area,” he says. “This is what I always wanted to do. I feel like it’s full circle. I love this town, and it’s always been my dream to be a chef in Santa Cruz.”
Alderwood, located at 155 Walnut Ave. in Santa Cruz, reopens 5-9pm Wednesday through Sunday starting Friday, June 14. More at alderwoodsantacruz.com.
About the author
Mark C. Anderson, Edible Monterey Bay's managing editor, appears on "Friday Found Treasures" via KRML 94.7 every week, a little after 12pm noon. Reach him via mark@ediblemontereybay.com.
