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RAMW MEMBER ON THE MENU: MICHAEL ABT

Le Diplomate Co- Executive Chef Michael Abt
June 26, 2014

Michael Abt is the Co- Executive Chef of Le Diplomate, DC's newest homage to French café culture.

What is the hardest part about being a chef?
Time away from my first love; playing Pinball at the Jersey Shore.

…and the most rewarding part?
Groupies.

Where do you look for inspiration when putting your menu together?
Comic Books.

How did you get started in the business?
Got stuck washing dishes to pay off a bar tab.

Where do you see yourself in five years?
In another mirror.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
If you’re gonna act that way, go out of the country to do it.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
Nuclear Physicist.

What’s your favorite DMV spot?
The French place on 14th and Q, I forget the name.

What is your favorite ingredient?
Love.

You’re hosting a dream dinner party.  What three people would be at your table?
Colonel Sanders for the recipe, Santa Claus to find out why I didn’t get that bike when I was 10 years old, and Marie-Antoine Carême to discuss the evolution of cuisine.

It’s the last meal of your life  - what’s on your plate?
The spotted owl because if I’m going somewhere its coming with me.

What are your pet peeves?
Whistling and dull knives.

What is your favorite way to give back to the community?
I actually enjoy doing charity events.

What’s your favorite go-to junk food?
Charleston Chew.