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‘A Sustainable Chef’
When it comes to sustainability, the world of fine dining has never been better. As the chefs behind the most innovative restaurants discover their increasing societal influence, we’re witnessing the rise of a new kind of cook — one devoted to his or her craft, wielding masterly knife skills and a deft palate, as well as a social conscience.
In making a documentary series about the world’s great chefs for Netflix, I discovered that many of these culinary trailblazers were determined not to confine their influence to their recipes. Around the world, they are using their restaurants to push for sustainability, and for social change.
This Op-Doc video focuses on one of them: Ben Shewry, whose restaurant Attica, in Melbourne, Australia, is perennially regarded among the best in the world. Mr. Shewry, who developed his love for nature while growing up on a farm in New Zealand, has made his menu into an example of how sustainable ingredients can be made absolutely delicious. This Earth Day, I wanted to highlight the work that he and so many other forward-thinking chefs around the world are doing to ensure that the food sources we enjoy now will still be here in years to come.
Mr. Shewry is deeply aware of the stress overfishing poses to our oceans. I find his willingness to fundamentally alter the way he cooks, and to position his restaurant at the vanguard of sustainability, an inspirational and vital lesson. With a bit of effort, we can all use our creativity to protect the world around us, satisfy our appetites and forge a better tomorrow.
Brian McGinn is one of the directors and executive producers of the Netflix documentary series “Chef’s Table,” created by David Gelb. His other credits include “The Record Breaker,” about the Guinness World Record holder Ashrita Furman, as well as a forthcoming HBO special starring Will Ferrell.
Op-Docs is a forum for short, opinionated documentaries, produced with creative latitude by independent filmmakers and artists. Learn more about Op-Docs and how to submit to the series.
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