I ran into Marc Murphy recently at Food Network’s 20th Anniversary Party, just before Kingside — his newest venture —  opened. That restaurant takes its inspiration from Marc’s childhood: his French heritage, Italian roots, American schooling and his love of travel. Kingside is in the Viceroy Hotel, on 57th Street, between 6th and 7th Avenues.

I asked Marc to respond to our Guest Foodie questions. That’s what follows.

Which food product or gadget would you never give up? The Japanese mandolin! It’s an amazing, versatile gadget that can turn anything into dust and is a must in any kitchen.

What do you like to serve when you entertain? I like simple and delicious dishes for entertaining my friends and family. I usually serve the meal family style, that way everyone can take what they want. In the summer, l use my smoker on whole chickens and meats and I love to start the night with grilled soft shell crabs. In the cooler months I like hearty stews or braised meats, one of my favorites is a classic beef bourguignon.

Describe your “last meal?” A big bowl of spaghetti carbonara and a great Bordeaux to go with it.

What food is your secret guilty pleasure? I don’t really have a guilty pleasure because I think all food should be enjoyed. That being said I have been known to indulged in an occasional Egg McMuffin every now and then.

What is your go-to neighborhood restaurant? Caffe Storico on the Upper West Side is one of mine and my wife’s favorite date night spots. It’s located in the New York Historical Society which is absolutely beautiful and the food is always amazing. Don’t miss out on the pastas, my favorite is short rib + foie gras agnolotti.

What is one food product most people don’t know about, but should?  Sea Beans they’re really healthy and you can use them in so many different ways. At my newest restaurant, Kingside I use them on the menu with seared tuna, braised radishes and wild mushrooms. It’s a delicious combination.

Describe your worst kitchen disaster and how (if possible) you saved it:  We have two locations of Landmarc one in Tribeca and the other in the Time Warner Center. One night a group dining reservation of about 20 people showed up in Tribeca by accident and we didn’t have their special menu items in house. So we had to come up with a new menu on the fly which was extremely stressful on the kitchen but the guests ended up loving the dinner!

You can follow Marc’s restaurants at  @kingside_ny@eat_landmarc and @eat_ditchplains; and Marc at @chefmarcmurphy

– bonnie

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