When executive chef Kevin Negoro bought and took over the the Honey Pot Pub in Honeymoon Bay on January 3, little did he realize that within five short weeks he would be deserting the business for the snow clad mountains of Whistler
Kevin, who relocated to Honeymoon Bay from Vancouver, was asked to be one of the catering staff at this year’s Winter Olympics, so his desertion is just temporary.
Kevin, who has held positions such as executive chef at the Vancouver Sheraton, was chosen by word of mouth and said he is extremely proud of the honour. He said he was torn as to whether he should accept or decline the position due to his recent arrival at the pub.
With the full support of many Honeymoon Bayers, though, he decided to jump at the opportunity.
"Of course he should go," said Sue Restall, who owns the Coffee Mill in Honeymoon Bay and is an occasional patron of the Honey Pot Pub. "It's a once-in-a-lifetime chance for him. So many people have encouraged him to go, so he shouldn't be worried about it."
Honeymoon Bay resident Glen MacLean also supports his decision to go. "A lot of people told him he has to go," said MacLean. "We'll still be here when he gets back. We aren't going anywhere."
Negoro will be taking with him just two of his staff from his Vancouver company, Turn of The Century Catering, and will be running the prime rib, high end seafood and the continental breakfast facility in Whistler.
Extremely passionate about his food, Kevin has been purchasing all his ingredients locally or from no further away than 50 kilometres, so everything is fresh as can be. He is also very proud of the fact that this policy gives back to the very community which he said is supporting him so enthusiastically.