Building on its reputation as Anguilla’s premier casual eatery and local nightspot, The Pumphouse proudly welcomes Marc Alvarez as its new Executive Chef. Committed to upholding The Pumphouse’s reputation for great food at great prices, Executive Chef Alvarez brings his innovative and exciting cooking style to this eminent local establishment.
This is a milestone year for The Pumphouse, which turns 20 next August, and owner, Laurie Gumbs has big plans. Teaming up with Marc, heralded as a “Culinary Genius” by the Robb Report is only the tip of the iceberg for The Pumphouse. Laurie plans to expand the dining room, offering an alfresco dining area capable of hosting large private parties. A catering division is also in the works.
The Pumphouse isn’t the only place guests can sample Marc’s talents. Heading the catering for Tradition Sailing Charters, Laurie’s second business, guests can look forward to an exclusive gourmet dining experience on the Classic West Indian Sloop.
No stranger to Anguilla, Marc worked on island during the late 90’s. During his tenure, Marc established himself as one of the most revered chefs on the island. Part of Anguilla’s Culinary Team, he won the award for the most innovative Caribbean dish. He was also included in Conde Nest Traveler’s “Hot List” and featured in The New York Post.
Returning to the USA in 2000, Marc continued to perfect his signature style using fresh products with simple preparations. He defined himself in the New York culinary scene creating his own private and exclusive catering business. In 2002, he took over the helm of Crispo Restaurant before joining Danny Meyers Union Square Hospitality Group. Instrumental in opening the Cafes at the Museum of Modern Art, Marc received accolades from The New York Times; Diners Journal, The New York Post, Nations Restaurant News and the Italian Corriere Della Sera. In 2010, Chef Marc created Concierge Foods a farm to home delivery service and joined the Grass Roots movement ‘Slow Food Metro North as its Resident Chef.
Marc’s passion for food and boundless energy mean great things for The Pumphouse.
“It’s exciting to be heading into our 20th year”, says Laurie Gumbs, “The Pumphouse has come a long way and I’m very proud of that, but it’s time to redefine ourselves. Teaming up with Marc is definitely a step in that direction, and we’re looking forward to a very dynamic year. We’re not raising our prices but we’re definitely raising the bar on the menu we offer our guests.”
The Pumphouse will remain open for the season while Laurie and Marc redesign the kitchen, build relationships with local farmers and fine-tune a menu which showcases Marc’s signature dishes.
In the meantime, diners have the opportunity to sample daily specials and be part of the evolution that will carry The Pumphouse into a vibrant 20th season.
