After traveling far and wide cooking and learning in Europe and Manhattan, Chef J.P. Samuelson returned to the Twin Cities and opened jP American Bistro in South Minneapolis. A self-proclaimed "lifelong student of food," J.P. works with several local growers to create his seasonal, eclectic, and unpretentious menu that infuses French, Italian, and Asian influences and beautifully incorporates local produce. Not only does sourcing locally allow J.P. to create the freshest menu possible, but it also allows him to address the rising demand among customers to know where their food comes from.
J.P. is a stalwart supporter of small farms and purchases many of his vegetables from Deer Creek Farm in Jordan, an eighty-acre farm owned by Ann Houghton. Ann has been recognized for Deer Creek's superior garlic and also grows heirloom tomatoes, cucumbers, and arugula. She is also strongly committed to sustainability, keeping most of her land in the Conservation Reserve Program and refraining from the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers.
Ann delivers fresh produce just two to three days after it is harvested, and J.P. prepares dishes showcasing vegetables at their best. She loves working with J.P., praising both his commitment to local produce and his delicious, seasonal menu. "It makes all the work worthwhile when you have a good close relationship with your chef," she says.
