CELEBRATED Border chef Carlos Saliba is putting his own stamp on a Wodonga hotel.
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The former owner/chef at Albury dining icon Cafe Victor took over the lease at St Ives Hotel about six weeks ago.
It is being rebranded as Victor Supper Club, a nod to the founder of Cafe Victor, Vittorio Thomas, and the migrant spirit on the Border.
Lebanese-born Saliba said he had been looking for the right premises for his new venture for months.
He said his strong passion for local produce, share plates and family-friendly dining would influence the seasonal menu.
"This venue lends itself as a secret destination for great food," he said.
"We have no pokies; my main passion is seriously good food made from scratch, local beers and our first shipment of local wine arrived last week."
Having bought that business in 2010, Saliba gained a reputation for his flavoursome Mediterranean-inspired dishes and share plates.
After Cafe Victor closed, Saliba travelled throughout Europe and the Middle East to hone his culinary craft.
"I spent a month in Greece, hopping from one island to another," Saliba said.
"I fell in love with the islands; their restaurants only serve whatever dairy, fish and meats are available from the islands."
Saliba said Victor Supper Club supported a strong entertainment program.
"We've now got a vibrant dining room and music hall. We've had gigs here over the past six weeks; we've also had the Murray Conservatorium here."
MEET MORE HOMEGROWN CHEFS:
What's your favourite dish?
Veal Saltimbocca
What's your favourite season?
Winter
What are the staples in your pantry now?
Good vinegar, lots of spices: all spice, Mastiha (a crystal, resinous spice that hails from Greece).
What is your earliest cooking memory?
My connections to the kitchen come from my mother and grandmother. I spent three years with my grandmother in Lebanon when I was going to technical school. I got most of my culinary skills from her. She was a great cook, actually she was a great chef; she was very commanding!
Which ingredients do you grow yourself?
We plan to have a kitchen garden at the restaurant.
What did you have for dinner last night?
Lamb Kibbeh with Tabbouleh and Hummus.
What are you drinking?
Mount Terrible Chardonnay