Neal Fraser is one of Los Angeles' most revolutionary chefs whose cuisine has been heralded by local and national media since his earliest days in the kitchen, his contemporary American fare at GRACE perfectly marries the highest quality, seasonal ingredients with his highly skilled and nuanced use of complementing and contrasting flavors and textures.
Neal Fraser began his culinary career in Los Angeles at the age of 20, working as a line cook at Eureka Brewery and Restaurant, one of Wolfgang Puck's earliest restaurants. Inspired by this introduction to the life of a professional chef, Fraser entered the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, in the fall of 1990.
During his tenure at the CIA, Fraser worked with such luminaries as Thomas Keller at the Checker's Hotel in Los Angeles, and David Burke at the Park Avenue Café in New York.
Upon returning to his native Los Angeles, Fraser continued cooking with the best in the business, including stretches at Joachim Splichal's Pinot Bistro, Wolfgang Puck's Spago, and Hans Rockenwagner's Rox.
When he was ready to strike out on his own, Fraser opened Boxer in 1995. The time spent as Executive Chef and part-owner of the intimate 50-seat restaurant afforded him his first opportunity to learn all the nuances and challenges of running a destination restaurant. And he accomplished all the tasks while earning glowing reviews from local and national media.
After three years, Fraser moved on to Rix in Santa Monica. As Executive Chef he continued to attract media attention with his weekly 8- to 10-course tasting menus, one of which was a controversial but well-received all-hemp menu.
Fraser made another move in the fall of 1999: He took over the kitchens at the legendary Jimmy's in Beverly Hills. This coveted position would be short-lived, however, due to a change in building ownership. Jimmy's closed it doors soon after Fraser's arrival.
Neal Fraser spent his down time contemplating his next move-the long awaited GRACE. As Partner and Executive Chef, Fraser serves his New American cuisine in an atmosphere perfectly designed to complement the ambitious flavors of one of Los Angeles' most revolutionary culinary talents.
neal@gracerestaurant.com
