Your Personal Chef is at Kroger

December 23, 2010; 11:11 AM • by Kate Semp

Like many people in the area my family checked out the new Kroger at Broad and Lauderdale opening weekend. I couldn’t resist – I was intrigued. Before opening I had received a letter asking me to share what I wanted in a grocery store. And I wanted to see if Kroger listened. It was crowded and I was overwhelmed but I did see a lot of things that I liked. Since then I really haven’t taken the time to explore further and learn more about what this new Kroger had to offer.

So when the opportunity arose for me to attend a wine tasting I jumped on it. Not only would I have the chance to meet the people who worked there (hugely important to me to KNOW the people selling my food) but I would be able to learn more about what Kroger had to offer in an environment where I could listen.

As I ran from one event to another that night I thought at least I would get some cheese and crackers with my “grocery store” wine tasting. I was not at all prepared for squash ravioli appetizer, macadamia encrusted lamb and a dark chocolate mousse prepared at the open kitchen in the store. I was so blown away by what I was presented with I forgot to take pictures!

Click on image for Chef Seth's Bio.

As I left that evening I began making plans to meet with Chef Seth to learn more about the kitchen at Kroger and before the week was out I got that chance.

It’s clear from the moment you meet Chef Seth that he is passionate about food. “Baking is science, cooking is an art and something I love to do.” And taking it a step further he is also passionate about sharing his knowledge, helping customers not only make good food but food that is healthy food too.

“What we are doing here (Kroger Short Pump) has never been done and we have the flexibility to do what our customers want.” Kroger has an open kitchen so you can see the team cooking and preparing foods but the open kitchen serves another purpose. The team of food professionals is open to the community, answering questions, sharing recipes, helping plan menus or suggesting substitutions whether it’s for health reasons or taste preference to meet your needs.

“Add flavor not calories,” says Chef Seth. “Americans have come to believe that calories equal value. The more calories in your food the more value it has.” All while keeping the food healthy the team is embracing the variety and diversity of the people they serve.

Chef Seth and the Kroger team want you to approach them. Plan to take some time, try the food, get in a good walk (9200 sq feet and out of the cold) and learn more about Kroger Short Pump and the team.

Keep an eye on downtownshortpump.com calendar for upcoming tastings and events hosted by Kroger.

Read Chef Seth’s Bio