Canlis' New Chef, Jason Franey, Generates Anticipation: Hire Is The First Of Several Initiatives Planned For 2009

Brothers Mark and Brian Canlis, the third generation to operate the eponymous Canlis Restaurant, announced the hire of Jason Franey, who will transition into the executive chef's position Dec. 1. Franey, 31, has been the executive sous chef at Eleven Madison Park in New York since January 2006.



"I don't want people to think new chef, new restaurant," Franey said. "I want them to think new chef, more Canlis."



The announcement, which came during a press conference held at Canlis, culminates a six-month effort to identify a chef who would be able to realize an essential piece of the vision that Mark and Brian Canlis set forth four years ago to keep Canlis on par with the finest restaurants in the nation.



"We're thrilled with the immediate reception Jason received from the local and national media," said Mark Canlis. "It's encouraging to know the city is behind this change and excited about where Seattle's food scene is going."



Since the Canlis brothers took over the daily operation of the restaurant from their parents four years ago, they committed nearly a million dollars to updating the interior design, artwork, stemware, plates, windows, garden and kitchen. In 2007, the family made the decision to purchase the coveted parcel of land upon which the restaurant sits. Inviting Franey to join the Canlis family is only the next step in the restaurant's evolving profile.



"We're putting the infrastructure in place to keep up with our talented team," Brian Canlis explained. "It's all a part of letting Canlis truly live up to its potential." Other projects slated for completion in 2009 include a new bar and remodeling the main and private-dining kitchens.



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About Canlis

Founded by Peter Canlis in 1950, this family-run establishment has helped shape both local and national dining trends in hospitality, service, cuisine and wine. Subsequently managed by Chris and Alice Canlis and, currently, by Mark and Brian Canlis, the restaurant is one of the longest-lasting, most highly decorated destinations in the country - a testament to the family's dedication to providing a memorable dining experience to each guest. Canlis has been nominated three times by the James Beard Foundation for "Outstanding Service." Visit canlis.com for more information.