Episode 46: Marc & Jacques Verite – A Family Legacy in the Kitchen
Posted by Emma on 4th Mar 2020
In Episode 46 of The Ceres Podcast, Stelios sits down with father-and-son duo Marc and Jacques Verite, the minds behind Bistro Verite in Birkdale, to discuss their journey in hospitality, the evolution of their restaurant, and what it truly takes to run a successful independent eatery.
Marc Verite, a classically trained chef with deep French roots, shares his journey from growing up in his father’s patisserie to forging his career path. His early experiences, working alongside his father and later in various prestigious kitchens, shaped his perspective on food and business. But the journey wasn’t always smooth—Marc candidly shares the highs and lows of working in demanding kitchens, adapting to industry trends, and ultimately deciding to open Bistro Verite.
The conversation is fascinating when Jacques, Marc’s son and the head chef at Bistro Verite, speaks about his entrance into the culinary world. Unlike many family businesses where children are expected to follow in their parent’s footsteps, Jacques had the freedom to explore different paths. However, his passion for food—nurtured from an early age while helping in the kitchen—naturally led him back to the family business. Despite Marc’s attempts to warn him of the long hours and demanding nature of being a chef, Jacques embraced the challenge.
The dynamic between father and son is mutual respect and shared passion. They discuss how working together has strengthened their relationship, how they’ve separated family from business, and why open communication is key to running a successful restaurant. The duo also touches on the importance of mentorship in the kitchen, recalling their experiences learning from great chefs and how they now pass that knowledge on to their team.
Another standout topic in the episode is the evolving nature of the restaurant industry. Marc and Jacques delve into how consumer habits have changed, from the rise of casual dining to the growing demand for food on the go. They highlight the shift in eating habits—how dining out is no longer a luxury but a regular part of life—and what that means for independent restaurants. The conversation also touches on the challenges of running a restaurant in today’s economy, from staffing difficulties to rising costs, and how Bistro Verite has adapted to stay competitive.
Listeners will also enjoy an insightful discussion on the balancing act of staying true to classical French techniques while embracing modern culinary demands. From the influence of allergens on menu design to the rise of plant-based dining, Marc and Jacques share how they’ve adapted their offerings while maintaining the authenticity of their food. It’s fascinating how a traditional bistro evolves without losing its soul.
Throughout the episode, Marc and Jacques bring warmth, humour, and honesty to the discussion, making it an engaging listen for anyone in hospitality or interested in the industry. Whether you’re a chef, restaurant owner, or food lover, this episode provides valuable insights into building a successful, long-lasting restaurant in today’s ever-changing market.
Ready to dive in? Listen to Episode 46 of The Ceres Podcast on your favourite podcast platform and hear Marc and Jacques Verite’s inspiring story firsthand.