A Dream Come True

By Christy Moses
Contributing Writer

A long-time dream has been fulfilled for a local man, George Hudanish. He has become Executive Chef at Café Portofino.
Owners, Ken and Dana Merritt of Café Portofino in Hiawassee, have made significant improvements in the quality of dishes offered by promoting George Hudanish to Executive Chef.
Hudanish creates his own recipes, manages the food ordering, kitchen staff and he also cooks. “I’m thrilled to be in this opportunity to cook, not just manage the kitchen. I don’t think I’ll ever change that. It’s a dream come true,” said Hudanish.
Hudanish has had a passion for cooking since he was a boy. “When I was 14 years old, I remember watching my mother prepare meals. That is when I really got interested in the art of cooking and my passion grew from there. I’ve always wanted to prepare my own Italian recipes and when the opportunity arose, I jumped all over it,” Hudanish said. He has been creating recipes for over 20 years. Now, he gets to share his culinary knowledge with patrons of Café Portofino.
Hudanish’s inspiration and heart is drawn from his children. “I want to be successful, creative and make my children proud,” Hudanish said.
“George Hudanish is an extraordinary individual. We are so excited and very fortunate to have him aboard. He has a wealth of heart and passion for his job. You can see it through his cooking and presentation,” said owner, Dana Merritt.
When Hudanish was first hired as Executive Chef, owners offered him a raise. “He wouldn’t take it for himself but requested that it be given to his kitchen staff instead. Only a unique, caring person does something like that,” said owner, Ken Merritt.
Hudanish said his staff was exceptional. “They are the legs and arms of the operation. I can’t do it on my own and they deserved a raise.”
Work ethic and morals are important to Hudanish. “I try to teach my kitchen staff the work ethic I learned when I was young and show them the morals and values needed to be successful. My first philosophy in the kitchen is, take your time and do it right the first time, because there is nothing worse than jeopardizing the quality of the dish by rushing the preparation of it,” said Hudanish.
“A good chef needs to be able to keep control under extreme pressures in the kitchen but most importantly is to be able to cook. I hope I teach them that,” Hudanish said.
Specializing in Italian food, dishes at Café Portofino range from a mixture of bold rich flavors to soft textures and sweet, citrus desserts.
Hudanish’s favorite dish is his chicken marsalla because it has a sweet wine taste and a good balance of salty flavors as well.
“A good, tasty dish consists of balancing sweet and savory flavors into a unique taste,” said Hudanish.
Café Portofino introduces new and exciting recipes created by George Hudanish, Executive Chef.  The romantic environment, gives customers an upscale dining experience with reasonable pricing and entertainment.
Come no further than Café Portofino to experience the fun, entertainment, cocktails and a tasty meal. Reserve a table in the Piano Bar, complete with entertainment and dancing on Friday and Saturday nights or the new upstairs private room for your party. For more information, call 706-435-0502 or visit them at The Shoppes at Fieldstone in Hiawassee, Georgia.