Chef Thomas Fundaro to Reinvent SLO Brew’s Menu
(San Luis Obispo, CA) – A signature San Luis Obispo experience, SLO Brew has represented the standard for authentic and casual entertainment and refreshing craft beer for 27 years. As SLO Brew prepares to open the doors of its new location on Higuera Street, it is excited to announce the appointment of Thomas Fundaro as SLO Brew’s new Executive Chef. Bringing with him over 20 years of restaurant and catering experience, Chef Fundaro will be spearheading SLO Brew’s new gastropub concept on Higuera and will also be overseeing food operations at the SLO Brew Rock tasting room on Aerovista.
In addition to SLO Brew’s characteristic good vibes, legendary musical experiences and award-winning craft beers, Chef Fundaro is handcrafting the SLO Brew experience by introducing a renewed focus on casual, locally-sourced cuisine with an emphasis on high quality and seasonal ingredients. Inspired by SLO Brew’s iconic status, Chef Fundaro plans to create an elevated menu that features a food program that pairs perfectly with the Brew’s cold beers and cool ambiance.
“Being the Executive Chef at the new SLO Brew is a great opportunity to create an interesting but approachable menu that caters to the fun group atmosphere that has always been part of the SLO Brew ethos,” said Chef Fundaro. “I’m looking forward to utilizing local produce from regional farmers to create dishes that will proudly represent San Luis Obispo’s unique gastropub cuisine.”
Most recently Chef Fundaro was executive chef at Villa Creek Restaurant in Paso Robles, and has also held this position at Jerry’s Restaurant in New York City, as well as Trumpet Vine Tapas and Wine Bar, also in Paso Robles. He’s worked in cities in both Northern California and the Southwest, including establishments in Santa Fe, Denver, Sonoma, Napa and San Francisco. Chef Fundaro’s kitchen philosophy focuses on food integrity and procuring sustainable, local and organic ingredients of the highest quality.
The new SLO Brew is slated to open in spring 2016 in the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo at 736 Higuera Street, just a few hundred feet away from the original Garden Street location. At the new venue, a rustic and industrial ambiance, with touches of steampunk inspiration, will shine through its design and décor. SLO Brew’s new space will feature amenities such as an upgraded music venue, an expansive indoor dining area and bar, two outdoor dining options including a creekside patio and a lounge on the mezzanine level.
