2026 Education Program

Culinary Stage Demo: Chef Gil Plaster – Reinventing a New England Classic

Join Executive Chef Gil Plaster of The Causeway Restaurant as he brings a beloved regional comfort dish to the Culinary Stage with his signature Haddock Cakes. In this engaging and technique-driven demo, Chef Plaster explores how chefs can elevate familiar flavors while preserving the nostalgia guests crave.

Drawing from his award-winning culinary perspective, Chef Plaster will showcase how thoughtful preparation, balanced seasoning, and smart kitchen systems transform a humble seafood staple into a menu standout. Attendees will gain insight into maximizing flavor through simple ingredients, managing food costs without compromising quality, and leveraging regional identity to drive guest connection.

With a leadership philosophy shaped during his tenure at Grove Bay Hospitality, working alongside Jeremy Ford, Chef Plaster blends craftsmanship with operational excellence. He will also discuss building strong partnerships with farmers and fishermen, implementing sustainable practices like composting, and designing menus that reflect both seasonality and profitability.

Named Chef of the Year by Hospitality Maine and a two-time Trekker’s Fired Up competition champion, Chef Plaster delivers a demo rich in practical takeaways, culinary inspiration, and real-world strategies for today’s operators.

Expect technique, storytelling, and a fresh take on a New England favorite.