Blog
From Dishwasher to Chef
Brandon Heath’s Inspiring Career Growth at Ethan Stowell Restaurants At Ethan Stowell Restaurants, we love celebrating the talent and dedication of our team, and Brandon Heath is a shining example of what passion and perseverance can achieve. From starting as a dishwasher to becoming head chef at Victor Tavern Eastlake, his story is one of hard work, curiosity, and a love for the craft of cooking. A Passion for Cooking & Growth Born in Texas and raised in Seattle, Brandon joined ESR at 20, eager to learn. What started as a role in the dish pit soon became an opportunity to absorb everything he could about food and leadership. His dedication and hands-on approach led him through three and a half years at Victor Tavern's SLU location, where he honed his skills and worked alongside incredible mentors. Today, he leads the kitchen at Victor Tavern Eastlake, bringing his expertise, creativity, and enthusiasm to every dish. “I stayed curious and learned as much as I could,” Brandon reflects. “Every challenge helped me grow, and I’m grateful for the chefs and teammates who supported me along the way.” Beyond the Kitchen When he’s not crafting unforgettable meals, Brandon has a few other passions. He’s a huge hockey fan, with Seattle Kraken’s Vince Dunn as his favorite player for his relentless energy on the ice. He also has a soft spot for Stromboli, calling it one of his all-time favorite foods. And if he weren’t a chef? He’d probably be in a chemistry lab, drawn to the science behind how things work. Looking Ahead As the head chef at Victor Tavern Eastlake, Brandon is excited to build on the restaurant’s reputation, creating outstanding food and a welcoming atmosphere for guests. “It’s going to be exciting and challenging, but I’m looking forward to leading this team and putting my own touch on what we do here.” Chef Ethan Stowell couldn’t be prouder. “Brandon’s journey has been amazing to watch—his talent, dedication, and leadership continue to inspire everyone at ESR. We’re thrilled to have him at the helm of Victor Tavern Eastlake.” Join us in celebrating Brandon Heath, a true testament to passion and hard work. Stop by Victor Tavern Eastlake to experience his culinary skills firsthand—maybe even try his favorite Reuben sandwich while you’re at it!Gluten-Free Pizza at Ballard Pizza Co. and Bombo
At Ethan Stowell Restaurants, we are committed to providing exceptional dining experiences for all guests, including those with gluten sensitivities. Our establishments—Ballard Pizza Company in both Ballard and Woodinville, as well as Bombo Italian Kitchen in downtown Seattle—proudly offer a variety of gluten-free options to cater to your dietary needs. Gluten-Free Pizza at Ballard Pizza Company Indulge in authentic New York-style pizza with our gluten-free crusts, available for medium-sized pizzas at both our Ballard and Woodinville locations. Enjoy one of our house specialties or customize your pizza with a wide array of fresh toppings, and for those seeking dairy-free alternatives, we also offer vegan cheese upon request. BPC in Ballard BPC in Woodinville Gluten-Free Options at Bombo Italian Kitchen Located inside Seattle's new Convention Center across from the Paramount Theater, Bombo Italian Kitchen offers modern Italian cuisine featuring seasonal Pacific Northwest ingredients. While our traditional oven-baked pizzas take center stage and can all be made gluten-free, we also provide vegan, gluten-free penne pasta as a substitute in most of our pasta dishes! Bombo Join us at Ballard Pizza Company or Bombo Italian Kitchen to enjoy delicious gluten-free dining options crafted with the finest ingredients and utmost care. We look forward to serving you!Gluten-Free Pasta at Tavolàta
At Tavolàta, we believe that everyone should be able to enjoy a great plate of pasta—no compromises! That’s why we serve what we consider the best gluten-free pasta available. Made with a blend of ancient grains, including amaranth, millet, teff, sorghum, and quinoa, our gluten-free pasta delivers the perfect bite that holds up beautifully to our sauces. Some of our most popular pasta dishes are available gluten-free, including: Anchovy, Garlic, Chili, Mint, Parmesan Basil Pesto, Preserved Lemon Ricotta, Pine Nut, Black Garlic The King - Spicy Sausage, Tomato, Marjoram, Chili, Parmesan The best part? Our gluten-free pasta is available for substitution on most pasta dishes and at every Tavolàta location, from Seattle to Boise and Spokane! Check out the menus at your neighborhood Tavolàta and explore all the ways you can enjoy our gluten-free pasta! TAVOLÀTA *Gluten-Free options are not available for stuffed pasta dishes, like ravioli. Gluten-Free pasta is also available across our family of restaurants.Fresh Picks for Winter: Salads to Brighten the Season
Who says winter can’t be fresh and flavorful? We've cracked the code on making salads so delicious, you'll forget it's winter. At our restaurants, we pride ourselves on offering a variety of fresh and vibrant ingredients that brighten up even the coldest days. Whether you prefer something zesty or hearty, we have options to satisfy every craving. All of our ESR locations offer delicious salad options, but we've curated a list of some seasonal favorites to inspire your next visit. Explore our menus to discover even more fresh and flavorful creations this winter! Cortina Little Gem pistachio, radish, chive, parmigiano reggiano, calabrian chili viniagrette *pictured above Tavolàta Tavolàta Salad chicories, cucumber, tomato, pickled pepper, red onion, pistachio, calabrian chili Vinaigrette, pecorino Goldfinch Tavern Beet & Dungeness Crab Salad watercress, sauce gribiche, tarragon Bombo Italian Kitchen Italian Sub Salad romaine, salami, fontina, pepperoncini, black olive, oregano vinaigrette Red Cow Frisée Lyonnaise frisée, bacon lardon, crouton, 6 minute egg, espelette, champagne vinaigrette Ballard Pizza Company BPC Chop Salad romaine, salami, provolone, taggiasca olives, grape tomatoes, pickled peppers, red onion Victor Tavern Wedge iceberg lettuce, applewood bacon, tomato, soft egg, crouton, chives, blue cheese dressing