Arts & Culture Talk: Meet Paul Canales: Oakland’s Chef Extraordinaire

If you have enjoyed one of Paul Canales’ meals, either when he cooked at Oliveto in Rockridge or at his own Duende restaurant in Uptown Oakland, then you know why he is renowned far beyond the East Bay.

On Wednesday, March 2, at 7 p.m., Paul will be our featured guest for Arts & Culture. The program will be live, but all attendees will be required to wear masks and show proof of vaccination.

This ebullient chef will explain the meaning of the Spanish word duende and why he chose it for the hip, 4,000-square foot, Basque-inspired restaurant that he opened in January 2013. He’ll share how he and his staff are weathering the emotional and financial roller-coaster of COVID-19. He’ll also talk about his plan, despite all odds, to open his second restaurant this spring on the first floor of Hyatt’s new Kissel Uptown Oakland Hotel.

Paul views himself “an improvisor,” as in the way a jazz musician improvises. “I have used this approach since I was quite young,” he says, “starting with sports and music, then continuing into academics and work, and then into cooking!”

Not only has Paul consistently been named one of the Bay Area’s top chefs, but also he has mentored a generation of young chefs who now work in kitchens across the country. They share his commitment to using only fresh local ingredients; creating delicious, innovative food; and giving back to the community. Don’t miss your chance to meet this culinary treasure!

Host or Publisher Berkeley City Club