Chef Josh Habiger has opened The Patterson House, The Catbird Seat, and Pinewood Social with Nashville's Strategic Hospitality. They are currently working on a new project for 2015.
What was the food highlight of your year?
There was a squab and beet dish that I had at Luksus in Brookyn (the restaurant behind Torst) that I still think about. They did this thing where about half way through eating the squab another element of the dish came out - some lentils with the braised squab legs. Best thing I have eaten all year.
What was the music highlight of your year?
That Sturgill Simpson album (Metamodern sounds of country music) blew my mind. Still does, every time I listen to it. Lately I have really enjoyed things that sound simultaneously old and new - that Diane Coffee record (My Friend Fish) is another one for me - and the new Foxygen. I picked up a turntable at the end of last year so this year has been all about vinyl for me. There is something about the ritual of it all - having something tangible to rifle through, pulling it out of the sleeve and listening to a series of songs as opposed to a playlist. I will find a way to incorporate it into the next restaurant that we do.
Was there a moment when food and music came together in a memorable way?
I very much appreciate the music of St. Vincent. Last time they came to Nashville they happened to be playing at a music venue that's about 2 blocks from my place so I thought I would invite them over for some food and wine before their show. They didn't have much time, but it was nice to have them by and get to do what I do before heading to the show and getting to enjoy what they do.