CHEF PAUL WAHLBERG
Chef Paul Wahlberg was born in Dorchester, MA one of nine siblings, which include his famous younger brothers, actor Mark Wahlberg and musician/actor Donnie Wahlberg. While Mark and Donnie spent childhood day-dreaming of their inevitable rise to fame as performers, Paul spent his time in the family kitchen with his mother Alma, also his restaurant’s namesake. At the age of 11 or 12, Paul fell in love with food over a simple Eggplant Parmesan sandwich at a friends’ house. According to Paul, his cooking was influenced by the Sunday suppers he shared at home with family and friends.
At age 16, he began working as a caterer while in high school. After graduating, he spent time in several kitchens around Boston including The Charles Hotel, The Four Seasons and Bridgeman’s in Hull, MA where he served as Executive Chef for nine years.
Following nine years at Bridgeman’s, Paul is thrilled to be embarking on his first solo venture with Alma Nove. The restaurant’s Italian/Mediterranean menu includes Signature dishes such as Braised Pork Meatballs with polenta, Sauteed Prince Edward Island Mussels, Tagliatelli with Short Ribs, as well as Pan-Seared Halibut and Wood-Grilled Sirloin steak.
A big supporter of the locavore movement, Paul supports local purveyors by incorporating their fresh ingredients into his dishes and serving fresh-off-the-boat seafood from south shore fishermen.
Today, not only will you find Paul in the kitchen but he has a vibrant presence in the front of the house as he maneuvers his way around the Alma Nove dining room greeting guests. Paul’s hope is that Alma Nove becomes a gathering place for friends and family to come together, break bread and share good times.