Meet Stacy Simonson | Chef/Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Stacy Simonson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Stacy, what habits do you feel helped you succeed?
Not being afraid or intimidated of hard work and keeping like minded staff.

Je n’ai pas peur du travail , le travail a peur de moi.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am extremely grateful for the opportunity I was given at Chez nous. Cooking has allowed me to travel the world, meet some fantastic people, use techniques handed down by my grandmothers and just do what I love-Cooking. Chef Brach opened the door to my culinary adventure. It was not easy but with his leadership and teachings it has really been an incredible ride. I have been extremely fortunate to be able to work alongside my partner and husband. It takes a team to put everything together and we have been blessed with some wonderful staff that give it their all everyday. Many of our staff have been with us for over 15 years, so that gives us a family feel that I will never take for granted.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
We love Uchi and take friends and family there when they come to visit. We also love Hugo’s.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Chef Gerard Florian Brach, founder of Chez nous, my mentor and my best friend. Chef Brach took a chance on me years ago by hiring me to wash dishes and begin my culinary adventure. It was thru his training and him sending me to France to work that began my journey into cooking. For over 20 years, he pushed me, inspired me, trained me and gave me a friendship I will never find again. He passed away in November of 2022. He was truly one of the most talented people I have ever known. While he’s well respected for his culinary contributions, he was more than a Chef. From his time spent as a Captain, sailing across the Atlantic or to Cuba, where he wrote a story of the adventure from the perspective of his canine companion Ziggy. He navigated his way through a Cat 3 Hurricane and was tasked by the U.S. Coast Guard to write a manual on his tactics used to survive. He spoke 5 languages, painted, read constantly, hiked for miles and miles, and enjoyed a proper meal with wine. Chef Brach inspired so many through his dedication to his passions. He will be forever missed and forever in our hearts.

Website: www.cheznousfrenchrestaurant.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chez.nous.96

Other: My social media/marketeing manager has all this information. I can put you into contact with her Kenzie Copeland-mackenziec4512@gmail.com