Meet Branden Levine | Chef/Owner of Sel Restaurant

We had the good fortune of connecting with Branden Levine and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Branden, what do you attribute your success to?
I believe that passion is the driving factor in any successful business. If you are passionate about something you more resilient and driven. When you are passionate, you will always do your best to find new ways to adapt and be creative. That energy is electric in the kitchen!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve been working in restaurants since I was 19 years old. My love for food and ethnic cuisines from all over the world keeps me motivated. The constant evolution of Sel keeps me busy working with our team to experiment and create new things for our guests to enjoy. I want people to know what Sel Restaurant is and who we are. So I have to spend my time working on new recipes, sourcing the best ingredients, and working on every aspect of the dining experience. We are not just another stuffy “fine dining” restaurant. We pride ourselves by creating the best dining experience we can, and we continue to improve daily on that experience.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If we’re talking brunch, Lon’s at Hermosa Inn. The property is beautiful, and the brunch is great! You can catch me at Jade Bar at The Sanctuary Resort every Sunday with a small band that plays jazzy style music while enjoying the view. One place no one can miss is Glai Baan, hands down the best Thai street food restaurant in Phoenix. If we were looking for cocktails, I would venture to Highball in Phoenix. The drinks and atmosphere are great. Our neighbor, The Beverly on Main is also worth checking out, great drinks and food. One of my guilty pleasures has always been Tutti Santi, a phenomenal family-owned Italian restaurant with amazing food and big portions. Last but definetly not least, Hiro Sushi, some of the best sushi I have had, ever.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would absolutely say that my wife May, deserves the most recognition in our success. She is my support when things get tough, and helps me be inspired when I need it. May brings positive energy to the restaurant every day that lights up the room. Her charisma and bubbly personality allows her to engage with our guest and creates a feeling of warmth and comfort of being in our home. She’s my biggest cheerleader.

Website: Sel@selrestaurant.com

Instagram: /selrestaurant

Twitter: @selrestaurant

Facebook: /selrestaurant

Image Credits
Debby Wolvos