EP 68: Dive Deep into Bar Harbor: A Seafood Odyssey with Owner Ben Hodgetts

Send us Fan Mail**Introduction:** In this episode of the Voice4Chefs Podcast, we sit down with Ben Hodgetts, the mastermind behind Bar Harbor, a seafood hotspot in downtown Seattle. Ben shares his journey from the East Coast to the West Coast, his love for seafood, and the story behind Bar Harbor's success. **Background:** - Ben Hodgetts opened Bar Harbor in downtown Seattle in 2016, drawing seafood lovers from around the world.- Growing up on the East Coast, Ben developed a deep appreciation for the region's culinary traditions and sense of humor.- Despite not coming from a restaurant family, Ben was drawn to the hospitality industry from a young age and has worked in every role imaginable in a restaurant. **East Coast Roots:** - Ben's upbringing on the East Coast instilled in him a love for seafood, particularly lobster and Dungeness crab.- He recalls fond memories of clamming, crabbing, and lobstering with family and friends along the Jersey Shore and in Portland, Maine. **Transition to the West Coast:** - After culinary school and a stint in Europe, Ben found himself in Seattle, where his father lived.- Inspired by the lack of Dungeness crab rolls on the West Coast, Ben set out to introduce this East Coast favorite to Seattle diners. **The Birth of Bar Harbor:** - Initially conceived as a wine shop with a focus on Dungeness crab rolls, Bar Harbor evolved into a full-fledged seafood restaurant.- Ben's commitment to quality ingredients, including fresh Dungeness Crab and Maine Lobster, set Bar Harbor apart from the competition. **Navigating the Pandemic:** - Like many restaurants, Bar Harbor faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.- With creativity and resilience, Ben and his team adapted to the changing landscape, offering takeout and utilizing their outdoor space to ensure guest safety. **Memorable Moments and Lessons Learned:** - Ben reflects on the highs and lows of restaurant ownership, from the excitement of opening day to the challenges of managing a business.- He emphasizes the importance of perseverance and humility, acknowledging that success in the restaurant industry requires hard work and a willingness to learn from others. **Looking Ahead:** - As Bar Harbor prepares to reopen its deck for the season, Ben looks forward to welcoming guests back and creating memorable dining experiences.- He invites listeners to visit Bar Harbor and experience the joy of high-end picnic food in the heart of Seattle.  **Connect with Bar Harbor:**- Website: www.barharborbar.com- Instagram: @barharborseattleSeason2 Welcome Chef Steven Leung as our new cohost.IG: themindfulwok Support the showYour support and contributions are vital in sustaining and expanding The Voice4Chefs podcast.Become a monthly supporter:https://www.buzzsprout.com/1432717/supportYour donations aid in amplifying the voices of chefs globally. https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/voice4chefs?locale.x=en_USShare your thoughts! Leave a comment or 5 star review.https://www.voice4chefs.com/reviews/new/Volunteer contact [email protected] with our Culinary Stories:https://linktr.ee/voice4chef