In this episode, we sit down with Chef Kristen, Executive Chef and General Manager of The Poppy & Parliament and The Salty Cod. She shares her journey from getting her start in a small New York restaurant at 14 to building two standout culinary destinations in North Alabama. We dive into her unexpected path through food science and government research, how she landed in Huntsville during the height of the pandemic, and the grit it took to open The Poppy & Parliament in 2020. Kristen walks us through the challenges of staffing, building a menu from scratch, and creating a pub-style experience that transports guests straight to the U.K. Plus, we explore the expansion to Athens with The Salty Cod, the in-house butcher shop, and what it’s like managing both kitchens day-to-day. If you're into culinary creativity, behind-the-scenes restaurant stories, or just love a good food-driven conversation, this one’s for you.
https://www.thepoppyandparliament.com
https://www.instagram.com/poppyandparliament/
Sponsor
Yellowhammer is a local craft brewery serving Huntsville for the past 14 years. They are known for their premium craft beers like T-Minus and Rebellion, but what you might not know is they also offer spirits, wine, seltzers, and non-alcoholic drinks. Next time you stop by their location try one of their seasonal cocktails made with Gemini Bourbon or Yellowhammer Vodka. Or try this year's big hit, Pineapple Punch seltzer. You can find out more information about Yellowhammer Brewing by visiting their website https://www.yellowhammerbrewery.com or visiting their taproom located at Campus 805.
Music
Any Day by Them Damn Dogs
https://open.spotify.com/artist/3HrncTSw4a7J9YiyMIxHdu?si=qw6Df7J6SwKm6-WOEc7U7w
