The Seattle Marriott Waterfront plans to raise the standard of dining at its Hook & Plow restaurant with the hiring of Chef Jim "Goody" Goodman.
A talented culinarian who has competed in and won multiple competitions over the years, Chef Goodman joins the Marriott team from Shipyard Brewery, where he was executive chef for the East Coast brew pub chain.
"Being a seasoned chef at such a successful downtown Seattle hotel restaurant is a dream come true for me," Chef Goodman says. "I can't wait to infuse my love of food preparation into the Hook & Plow concept and further highlight the abundant local products available in and around Seattle, and specifically the Pike Place Market."
Goodman first unearthed his passion for cuisine as a young dishwasher, moving up through the ranks of small restaurants and learning the art of cooking along the way. After a brief stint at The University of Delaware studying mechanical engineering, Goodman said he realized that a career in the culinary field is what he wanted to pursue. Goodman enrolled in a community college culinary program and, after a semester, committed to the Culinary Institute of America.
For his externship, Goodman was given the opportunity to work at the New Orleans Marriott, making lifelong connections that lead to a position at the JW Marriott and Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes in Orlando, Florida, after graduation.
Over the next seven years, Goodman moved through the ranks and discovered his unique love of barbecue, butchering, and charcuterie. Developing this niche, he started an upscale barbecue banquet menu and butchering and charcuterie program, then competed in the American Royal BBQ competition in Kansas City. Goodman has participated in the competition eight times, winning three ribbons, including one first-place honor ribbon. He has also participated in two Memphis in May barbecue competitions, placing in one.
"Our Pacific Northwest Cuisine-centric menu and friendly accommodating staff make breakfast, lunch, and dinner a fun experience for our guests, and Goodman's unique and creative experience is sure to make the Seattle Waterfront hotel's restaurant a stop on everyone's vacation agenda," says David Dolquist, general manager of the Seattle Marriott Waterfront.
The Seattle restaurant is known for its prime waterfront location near Pike Place Market and scenic views. In the evenings, guests can enjoy a variety of craft beers and artisanal wines on the outdoor patio.
