Chef Anthony Pane, Positano
Chef Profile
Chef Anthony Pane, Positano
Hands on, hands in
The new bistro Positano, formerly Main Street Bistro in bustling Downtown Freehold gets its name from Positano Italy, a bountiful town on the gorgeous Amalfi Coast. It is also the hometown of Head Chef Anthony Pane’s father and his way to honor his family and heritage.
Chef Anthony Bar
Positano is a picturesque seaside village, carved into the side of a cliff, where sun kissed buildings and bright flowers lead your way through winding streets, past cafes and vendors and of course fisherman with their catch of the day. Inspired by the traditions and styles of his parents, Chef Anthony Pane learned the role of touch and smell and the importance of quality, fresh ingredients. There is richness everywhere in that part of the world, fresh seafood, homemade “Buffalo” mozzarella, and popular Durham wheat pastas and pizzas. It is this energy you find in the restaurant and in the flavors at your table.
“When you have good things to work with, food becomes an expression. It’s not about rigidly conforming to set recipes as much as watching the flavors come together. I believe in the marriage of clean, simple, bright flavors handled correctly to bring out their very best. I cook the basic foundations of my foods – the garlic and onions – very slowly, to caramelize them to their sweetest best. My sauces are gently prepared to create depth of flavor. I make fresh pasta, just like my Mom and Dad do, so it’s tender and the perfect companion to those sauces.”
When you meet Anthony, which you probably will, especially if you’re planning a party or wedding in the restaurant, which holds up to 80, or upstairs in Courtyard on Main banquet hall that seats up to 175, you’ll feel comfortable immediately. He is an easy and attentive communicator, earnestly interested in learning about your tastes, so the he can help you make the best menu choices for your event. “Here, at my restaurant, there is a menu, but if there’s something special, just say the word. Custom food preparation is our specialty”, says Chef Anthony. “I like to get my hands into cooking, to combine your tastes with my technique.”
Anthony Pane has always been a hands-on creative type. Before becoming a Chef/Owner, some 20 years ago, he was a very successful hairdresser, a business he loves to this day. He left it behind to go into business with his only brother and food became the choice that has made them successful. As a father, he relaxes by being hands on, coaching baseball and basketball, but admits that devouring every new cookbook is favorite pastime. ”I want to learn about all the cuisines, but Italian will always be what I am and what I do.”
The staff and even the customers at Positano lend to the warm, cozy feeling. “Family is very important to me. I want everyone to have that family feeling while they’re here. We want to help you relax over your food, don’t rush, enjoy, share, taste each bite.”
Positano has an eye on the future. There is room for more weddings and parties, like the one recently attended by Gov. Chris Christie, in the elegant upstairs catering hall, an outdoor courtyard for dining in the warmer months and of course new creations coming out of the kitchen, all the time.
Positano is located at 30 E. Main Street in downtown Freehold, with plenty of free parking and an entrance from the rear municipal lot. It’s BYOB, so come with your favorite and enjoy. 732-294-1112.
