In the Kitchen happy. That’s my goal. Putting out quality food and making sure the guest enjoys their time here is my priority. So far it’s been going really well. OC mag: Tell us something about you that we don’t know. Chef Blake: In my free time I like to work on my motorcycles. OC mag: Wait. What? Dirt bikes? Chef Blake: No, street bikes. Harleys. OC mag: Please continue. Chef Blake: I’m finishing up my third build. I customize them. OC mag: How’s that work? Chef Blake: I’ll buy a stock bike. Then I tear it down, do a paint job on it and give it the look I like. I’ve been doing that about three years now. I own two now and the third is almost done. OC mag: What's a good way to spend some down time in OC? Chef Blake: I would ride my bike on the Boardwalk and then go get some lunch at Cinco de Mayo on West Avenue. OC mag: What's your favorite thing about Ocean City? Chef Blake: I love the sunshine and the people. I have to say I honestly
enjoy having people in town for the summer. I like being social. OC mag: Do you have a favorite event in Ocean City? Chef Blake: Well, this isn't an event but they used to have competitions at the skate park, back when they had a skate park. They're trying to get a new one and I hope they succeed. OC mag: Oh, so you're a former skate rat? Chef Blake: Skate rat? (laughs). A rat? (laughs again). I guess. Back in high school, yeah, I guess I was. OC mag: Do you still ride? Chef Blake: Yes, I'll go over to the skate park in Upper Township sometimes. OC mag: What's your advice for young chefs? Chef Blake: Hmm... Well you have to come to work everyday. You have to put your best foot forward and always be willing to learn and better yourself. OC mag: Ever seen Emily the ghost? Chef Blake: No, I've heard plenty of stories, but I personally have never seen her.
MAY HOURS Sunday through Thursday 4:30-9pm Friday and Saturday 4:30-9:30pm
Fresh seafood at terrific prices! Serving daily specials & chowders. A bayside restaurant with waterfront views and a nice breeze. The Clam Bar is a great place to sit, but there’s room inside too. Great for families.
910 Bay Avenue, Somers Point 6
OCNJMAGAZINE.COM May 2014
Some of the gorgeously plated food at The Flanders. Photos by Erin McCusker