As Sous Chef of Olenjack’s Grille, Bryan Sparling has the daunting task of executing a flawless combination of food and function at Olenjack’s. Bryan has over ten years in the restaurant industry. He served as a line cook with the former fine dining establishment Chisolm Club in Fort Worth, as well a sous chef for Sam & Harry’s Restaurant. Learn more about "the Bryan behind THE Brian".
- How does it feel to be the Bryan behind the Brian? Quite fun! It’s an honor working for Brian Olenjack, and we balance each other’s skills and personalities well. It does get confusing for people though, because most people don’t know there are two Brians/Bryans.
- Anybody who looks at the cooks working their magic in the kitchen can see you guys having a great time. How do you manage to keep the team so positive in the heat of things? It’s all about setting a tone. If we’re having fun and joking then it brings the level of stress down, and in my opinion you can tell when someone is having fun cooking, and if you cook with a positive attitude I think things just taste better.
- So Chef Olenjack is a Chicago native. Where are the Sparling roots?
From small town Kansas. Just north of Smallville.
- Married? Kids? Dogs? Married with no kids, two cats.
- What’s one word to describe the menus that you’ve worked with Brian Olenjack to create? Fun
- If you were stuck on an island with ten people who don’t care what you cook for them, what would you love to whip up? If I’m on an island I’d say fresh seafood and some fun sides. I’m a big believer in getting good quality fresh proteins and letting them speak for themselves…then have fun with the rest.
- If you weren’t being a culinary maestro, you would be a…? A journalist or novelist. Maybe someday I’ll be all three.
- What’s your favorite Food Network show? I’d have to say either Iron Chef or Bobby Flay’s ‘Throwdown! Maybe one day it will be The Brian & Bryan Show!
- Which appetizer, entrée, dessert & beverage on the menu are your favorites? I’d have to go with the Mussels, Shrimp & Grits, Smore Cheesecake, and Basil Hayden (one of our many premium Bourbons) on the rocks, respectively.