Chef JD Fratzke has a spectacular talent for infusing his cuisine with exotic spices and internationally inspired flavors, while maintaining a savory, delicious, and authentically Minnesotan menu. Now Executive Chef at Muffuletta in the Park in St. Paul, JD originally honed his culinary skills at fine Twin Cities restaurants such as Pronto Ristorante, Cafe Un Deux Trois, and Chino Latino.
Though he and wife Lisa have traveled the world over in search of exotic tastes, this native of Winona declares, "My heart and soul will always belong to the Mississippi River Valley," noting that at Muffuletta in the Park, it is "a huge point of pride to showcase the hard work and dedication to quality found in Minnesota's network of small family farms." JD sources as much as possible from local producers and growers, and staple ingredients for his menu include local cheeses, game, produce, beef, fish, pork, and produce.
For top quality grass-fed beef, JD turns to Nick and Lisa Klein of Hidden Stream Farm near Elgin, who specialize in providing grass-fed chicken, beef, and pork produced without the use of chemicals or antibiotics. Second generation owners of this Food Alliance certified farm, the Kleins use a rotational grazing method that mimics natural ecosystem patterns and enhances the health of the animals, and thus, the consumers.
Thanks to the Klein's careful nurturing of their animals, JD can treat his customers to meat that is not only exquisitely tender and delicious but also more nutritious, masterfully transforming it into creative entrees that continue to draw food lovers to this popular St. Paul establishment.
