A conversation with
John Valentine, Proprietor and Host...
Q: How does a Philly-born, New York City businessman find
himself in Pittsburgh opening a restaurant?
A: ... I originally came to Pittsburgh to work on the
Fifth-Forbes development with Madison Marquette.
But I stayed because I fell in love with the place.
I like people. Friendly, open people. That’s exactly
what I found here. I like to say I didn’t adopt Pittsburgh,
Pittsburgh adopted me...
Q: Your background is full of entrepreneurial accomplishment…
founding your own business, acquisitions and development.
Why a restaurant?
A: ... ever since I worked in my uncle’s restaurant as a young teen, I’ve
always liked how food brought people together. Connecting over drinks
and dinner. The laughter. The fun. As my career developed, I was fortunate
enough to be a minority partner in some great restaurants in New York City.
Gramercy Tavern. Dylan Prime. When I came to Pittsburgh, I saw great
potential in the Cultural District, and I decided it was finally the right time
to open up my own restaurant...
Q: The Cultural District was your first choice?
A: ...Absolutely. Some people may not understand what a great resource
they have in Downtown Pittsburgh and, for my money, the Cultural District
is its centerpiece. I looked for two years until I found the right property
to develop. And I think it will be a real complement to what’s happening
all around it...
Q: What’s the idea behind PALATE?
A: ...I want it to be a place where people feel comfortable. A friendly
landmark downtown where anyone passing through my neighborhood can
stop in. Whether you’re a downtown resident, like me, or someone who
loves the theater, the shopping, the sports…whatever, PALATE is a
modern bistro that doesn’t stand on formality, just the fun, energy and
great French cuisine that Parisian’s fuel their busy lives with...
