815: Chris Viaud Owner and Executive Chef of Greenleaf and Culture

Chef Chris Viaud is owner and executive chef of Greenleaf Millford and sister restaurant, Culture, both residing in Milford, NH. Originally from Randolph, MA, Chris and his parents, who had immigrated from Haiti, moved to Londonderry, N.H. where, post-high school graduation, he attended Johnson & Wales University, receiving his bachelor's degree in Culinary Arts & Food Service Management.​Post culinary school, Chris came back to Boston where he spent three years at Deuxave, a true culinary landmark for modern French cuisine in the city, where he gained experience working alongside chef and owner Chris Coombs, Adrienne Mosie, and acclaimed chef Stefanie Bui. Since his time at Deuxave, he has been an essential part of four restaurant openings in the Massachusetts and New Hampshire. In the spring of 2019, Chris opened Greenleaf in what was the Souhegan National Bank building in Milford, NH. Chris' approach to food is rustic yet refined by classic techniques and his menus are driven by locally grown seasonal products. His strength and motivation build from the support of his family, friends, and staff and he continues to push himself every day.

Check out episode 742 with Keith Sarasin as mentioned in today's episode.

Check out VOLT ink. Recipes, Stories, Brothers by Bryan and Michael Voltaggio as recommended by Chris in today's episode.

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In today's episode with Chris Viaud we will discuss:

• Race perceptions in modern America
• Mentors at Johnson & Whales
• Culinary school advice
• The importance of culture and how to efficiently implement it
• Popups
• Becoming a master of time management
• Learning from the corporate food world
• Lessons learned from opening a restaurant for the first time
• What a trip to Europe taught Chris about food relations
• A chaotic, highly anticipated opening
• Budgeting an opening
• Partnerships with friends
• Breaking up a partnership
• The importance of lawyers in business creation
• Leaning on tech when you need it

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