QA With VOLTs Chef Bryan Voltaggio: Frederick Maryland

Although he is universally hailed as a celebrity chef, with appearances on Top Chef and Top Chef Masters, there is much more substance to Bryan Voltaggio than fame. His dedication and talent have taken him from the screen to his hometown, Frederick, in Maryland. We speak to Chef Voltaggio to find out more about VOLT, his newest culinary venture Family Meals, and Frederick’s culinary landscape.
Courtesy VOLT

Why did you pick Frederick as the location for VOLT?

I knew I always wanted to return to my hometown. I had the idea of VOLT as a destination restaurant and also understood what VOLT could be for the community.

What dish did you create that you were most proud of?

Since I’m always creating new dishes in order to change the menus regularly, I don’t look at the dishes I create in that way. Rather, I am most proud after I’ve been working on a dish for a while and it finally comes together exactly how I wanted it. That’s a great feeling.

What can we expect from VOLT in the near future?

We are excited about the future of VOLT as Frederick keeps growing. We love that we are meeting new farmers every week and learning about what is happening in the community around us. We have a lot of support locally and are excited to work with everyone to make the restaurant grow.

What’s one of the most memorable dishes you’ve ever had, and where did you have it?

Most recently, the Krispy Kreme ice cream donut at MiniBar.

When you have time to eat out, where is your favorite place to dine in Frederick?

My family and I like to go to Black Hog BBQ. They just opened their third location and am happy to see them doing well.
For the best drinks in Frederick, head to…
Honestly, VOLT’s bar. Our cocktail program is great and I love the setting of our courtyard outside. It’s such a unique place in Downtown Frederick to sit outside and enjoy a drink.

What’s your go-to place for local cuisine in Maryland, and what would you order?
May’s Restaurant. I go every year to eat crabs and they never disappoint.

An exciting new arrival to the local food scene?
I don’t think it doesn’t get more exciting than the new Family Meal locations that we are opening. We can’t wait to open our new locations in Ashburn and Richmond, Virginia.

In Frederick, culture lovers need to…
Walk around the Downtown Frederick district, see a show at the Weinberg Center for the Arts, shop at our local stores, and not to mention the surrounding community that is beyond beautiful. It’s really a great place to be.

VOLT, 228 N Market St, Frederick, MD, USA, +1 301-696-8658

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