It's a bag of mixed emotions here at Salt as we let you all know that Tony Mandeville, who has been in the kitchen with us here for 10 years, not to mention another 4 with me at bula in Newton, is leaving us. Tony has an opportunity to head up opening a new kitchen in Bath Maine, and being that Tony is a true Mainer, being originally from Maine, this is a "going home" of sorts. We first can't thank Tony enough for all of the work he has put into Salt...the endless hours from day one. From the normal prep and lunch/dinner service that every chef has to endure daily to being a plumber and electrician to a furniture mover and carpenter (Tony and I built the Salt bar exactly 10 years ago and moved every piece of furniture and equipment into Salt, and that meant a lot of times driving my small pick up into and out of the city with stuff hanging out windows, piled over the roof and hanging over the sides held with tie-downs.). He also played Dad, Doctor, Psychologist, Counselor, Boss and head of HR for many a young men and woman who worked their way through Salt, while at the same time maybe sending a few to see a psychologist or counselor. Tony literally gave us everything for 10 years, and we will forever be grateful. That being said we also wish Tony the absolute best up in Maine and with the new place and with everything he does....He will always be a big part of the Salt family, and will always be one of the "Originals"... he will be missed by everyone! Tony's last day is on Wed. Dec. 27....so swing on in before that, leave a note, say good-bye, send him a beer....whatever. We just want to give him a big THANK YOU. And I for one can't wait for my next "Research & Development" road trip up to Bath Maine!
