Le Garage restaurant in Wiscasset has recently hired its first executive chef in nearly five years.
Mikael Andersson, a Wiscasset resident by way of Linkoping, Sweden, began work on Feb. 26 and is eager to put his extensive international experience to use. Andersson, who is married to Morris Farms’ director Kim Andersson, has cooked for three Swedish ambassadors and spent time in a variety of highly rated New York City kitchens. Most recently he was the executive chef at the Sebasco Harbor Resorts in Phippsburg.
Andersson describes his style as minimalist and steeped in traditional New England ingredients. His cooking is light and simple and he tends to stay away from heavy sauces that can mask the flavor of fresh ingredients, he said.
“I intend to use as many local sources as possible,” Andersson said. “The abundance of farms nearby is incredible.”
In his native Sweden, Andersson was raised by a family that grew its own produce.
“My grandparents had three huge farms,” he said. “I would spend every summer weeding and planting. It gave me an appreciation for both farming and the value of local food.”
Currently Le Garage is open for lunch and dinner, but Andersson plans to introduce a brunch menu in the spring. The menu is consciously eclectic and Andersson hopes to bring a pleasing but decidedly upscale flair to the restaurant. The main dining room features undisturbed views of the Wiscasset waterfront and a downstairs pub serves traditional fare with a wide selection of craft beers.
Andersson, who has traveled extensively, said the Wiscasset village reminds him of Sweden.
“I love this area,” he said. “People are down to earth and honest. Nobody puts on airs.”
Le Garage has been an institution for nearly four decades on Water Street. Founded by Charlotte and Crosby Hodgeman in 1974, the building was originally an ice cream parlor, sandwich, and chowder house. The menu grew under the culinary stewardship of prior Chef Al Gordon.
Andersson admits that sometimes people can forget about places that have persevered through the years.
“Sometimes you miss the best things that are around you,” he said. “Hopefully I can continue to honor the tradition of the restaurant and open a few new eyes.”
Le Garage restaurant on Water Street is open Tuesday-Sunday from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. For more information or reservations, please call 882-5409.
