WILLIAMSBURG — After more than 40 years, a new chapter of 2nd Street American Bistro has begun, with longtime head chef Chris Long recently taking over the reins from founders John and Mickey Chohany as the restaurant’s new managing partner.
The transition was announced in July, although Long assumed the role earlier this year after spending 10 years learning the ropes of the business beyond the kitchen from the Chohany brothers. Long first came aboard at 2nd Street in 2006 as head chef to assist with a major overhaul of the restaurant.
“It felt like home right out of the gate,” said Long, who quickly developed a friendship with the restaurateurs.
As the restaurant’s managing partner, Long now oversees every day-to-day aspect of the business, from ensuring the HVAC system, plumbing and refrigeration are running smoothly to paying bills and checking in on his 150 staff members. He divides his time between the bistro’s original location in Williamsburg, as well as a second location in Newport News near Kiln Creek.
Chris Long
“This is all new for me,” he said. “There are so many small pieces that keep both places running smoothly.”
Long first developed a passion for food while growing up helping out on his grandfather’s farm in North Carolina. His family spent a great deal of time harvesting and preserving vegetables such as green beans and corn.
“That was my first real connection between food and family,” he said.
Long went on to attend culinary school at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, where he honed his skills in food as an art form.
“I know it sounds cliché, but that’s where I found I could express myself through food,” he said. “I worked with some really great chefs who taught me about food, leadership and how to operate a kitchen effectively.”
Long worked in a few country clubs and fine dining establishments before he and his wife settled in Williamsburg and he joined the 2nd Street fold.
“I love the restaurant industry because each day is different, there are new challenges and that forces you to think outside of the box,” Long said. “I’ve found a place in 2nd Street where I feel comfortable and where I feel like I belong.”
Most of 2nd Street American Bistro’s employees feel the same way, with several of the restaurant’s bartenders, chefs and management having been with the establishment for many years as well.
“They go a long way in making us look good day in and day out,” Long said. “It’s about good food, good service and a good atmosphere. It’s not rocket science. Food is only a small part of a restaurant. It’s also about the service, about the hostess greeting you at the door with a smile and saying good night to you when you leave and you feeling like you’ve had a great experience and thinking ‘wow, that’s a really nice place.’”
In his new role, Long does not anticipate making any major changes to the restaurant. He hopes to do some interior renovations to spruce up the dining area and add a few new dishes to the menu, which rotates seasonally, although staples like the meatloaf, ribs and seafood will remain.
“I think the consistency has been the key to our success,” Long said. “It’s one of our calling cards, having a plate that comes out the same every time. There is nothing on our menu that we are not proud of. We plan to stay loyal to the past while adapting and growing into the future.”
Mickey, a founding member of Williamsburg Area Restaurant Association, and John Chohany first opened 2nd Street American Bistro in 1985. The brothers are slowly taking a step back from operations as they plan for retirement. To honor their contributions, 2nd Street will host two Legacy Nights, on Aug. 10 at the Williamsburg location and on Aug. 24 in Newport News. The events will include food, storytelling and memories of the Chohanys’ four decades in business.
“It’s a chance to celebrate what John and Mickey have done here, their work and dedication and the impact they’ve had on our community,” Long said.
For more information on 2nd Street American Bistro, visit secondst.com.
Brandy Centolanza, bcentolanza@cox.net
