Chang’s most valued tool in the kitchen isn’t a fork, a whisk, a pot or a pan—it’s a chainsaw.
“Chainsaw” is a nickname that Akunowicz, Chang’s executive chef at Myers + Chang, earned early in her career for her “relentless” work ethic. Akunowicz has steered the South End’s funky Asian diner for the past five years, having been hired after an interview on Chang’s birthday. She’s been a gift ever since. “Karen is fierce,” Chang says. The acclaimed restaurateur, whose beloved Flour Bakery + Cafe soon opens a seventh location, says even she is inspired by the steely intensity that sets Akunowicz apart.
Together, though, their rapport is warm and sister-like. During weekly work debriefs at Myers—“therapy sessions,” quips Chang—the chefs joke, lovingly tease and, yes, finish each other’s sentences. That last talent will prove useful: Their co-authored cookbook, Myers + Chang at Home, hits shelves in September.
They’re true collaborators; Akunowicz is now a full partner in the restaurant. But she still considers Chang a pivotal mentor who helped her star rise—whether by prepping her for the spotlight of Top Chef (Akunowicz competed on season 13) or offering the guidance that helped her nab a second James Beard nomination in 2016, the same year Chang won for Outstanding Baker.
Above all, Akunowicz says, Chang exudes authenticity—the secret ingredient to work and life. “Joanne is one of the most genuine people I know,” she says. Chainsaw’s eyes suddenly look misty. “She makes me want to be my true self, to be honest and upfront. My mantra is WWJD: What Would Joanne Do?”
Perfect Pairings
By Scott Kearnan | Photo Credit: Holly Rike | Feb. 10, 2017
Karen Akunowicz & Joanne Chang
Chang’s most valued tool in the kitchen isn’t a fork, a whisk, a pot or a pan—it’s a chainsaw.
“Chainsaw” is a nickname that Akunowicz, Chang’s executive chef at Myers + Chang, earned early in her career for her “relentless” work ethic. Akunowicz has steered the South End’s funky Asian diner for the past five years, having been hired after an interview on Chang’s birthday. She’s been a gift ever since. “Karen is fierce,” Chang says. The acclaimed restaurateur, whose beloved Flour Bakery + Cafe soon opens a seventh location, says even she is inspired by the steely intensity that sets Akunowicz apart.
Together, though, their rapport is warm and sister-like. During weekly work debriefs at Myers—“therapy sessions,” quips Chang—the chefs joke, lovingly tease and, yes, finish each other’s sentences. That last talent will prove useful: Their co-authored cookbook, Myers + Chang at Home, hits shelves in September.
They’re true collaborators; Akunowicz is now a full partner in the restaurant. But she still considers Chang a pivotal mentor who helped her star rise—whether by prepping her for the spotlight of Top Chef (Akunowicz competed on season 13) or offering the guidance that helped her nab a second James Beard nomination in 2016, the same year Chang won for Outstanding Baker.
Above all, Akunowicz says, Chang exudes authenticity—the secret ingredient to work and life. “Joanne is one of the most genuine people I know,” she says. Chainsaw’s eyes suddenly look misty. “She makes me want to be my true self, to be honest and upfront. My mantra is WWJD: What Would Joanne Do?”
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