Five Questions
Elliott Vogel is executive chef at Daley’s on Yates, a new restaurant and bar in downtown Schenectady being opened by Troybased catering company Old Daley Custom Catering.
1 Why did you decide to join the Daley’s on Yates team?
It all started when I responded to a Craigslist ad for Old Daley Custom Catering last winter, when I was looking for a new opportunity. What I ended up finding was my new family. The owners, Gene, Jim and Marty, plus the rest of the management team, have all been a part of the Old Daley team for decades and are just incredible. They consistently emphasize a positive work culture and are focused on ensuring that every staff member feels empowered to do their best and confident enough to grow. Daley’s on Yates is the next step for them, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.
2 What do you hope to bring to Daley’s on Yates?
At my core, I’m a firm believer in the power of rich, well- seasoned food. I want to create comfort and satisfaction with every bite, while holding on to that element of surprise, all the while using fresh, local ingredients. Thanks to the formal education I received from the Culinary Institute of America, everything I do is rooted in solid French technique, and I’m big into sauces. For me, running a successful kitchen is incredibly important, but I also want to create a calm, education- forward environment for those working with me. I view every new challenge as a chance to grow, as much for myself as for my team.
3 What will the menu be like?
We’re set to deliver a diverse menu with a variety of sauces and refined techniques, designed with enough variety that everyone will find something they love — from those with themost refined palates to those who prefer classic renditions of favorite dishes, such as prime rib or eggs benedict. We’re able to cater to every dietary need, offering vegan and gluten- free options, as well as pub fare, which will be great for kids. Guests won’t just eat good, they’ll feel good, too.
4 Old Daley Custom Catering is located in Troy, but this new restaurant is in Schenectady. What excites you most about the new location and opportunity?
After cooking in the Capital Region since 2008, it’ll be nice to spend some time in a new location. Schenectady is in the midst of a food movement, and I’m excited to be a part of it. Plus, we’re located in the perfect spot — on a quiet street with plenty of outdoor space and within easy walking distance from Proctor’s, Union College and more. It’s also worth mentioning that we revitalized a building that was in significant disrepair, and the end results are stellar. We’ve built a private, tree- lined patiowith outdoor dining and lounge areas complete with fire pits.
5 What makes Daley’s on Yates different from the other restaurants in downtown Schenectady?
Daley’s on Yates is truly committed to amazing food — approachable, while still embracing multiple cuisines and cultures and designed to entice a wide variety of palates. We’re talking only the highest quality, freshest ingredients and new takes on classic staples. Our menu is totally inclusive, so there’s something for everyone. Far more than a place to grab a drink or a bite to eat, Daley’s on Yates is an inviting place where guests can get comfortable and socialize in a thoughtfully designed urban atmosphere.