The Shack, a tiny former doughnut shop,  barbecue joint, and bar (and the list goes on) is just outside of downtown Staunton in a small building with a changing menu.  For the last several years it has been under the kitchen of Chef Michael Skipper but it was started by Chef Ian Boden in 2014..   Boden retained ownership but now runs Maude and the Bear.  The Shack has just 26 seats in its 400 square feet and is named for Chef Boden’s wife’s grandmother’s home.   Some of her best memories are from that time and the current Shack is doing the same for diners today.  A very casual place with the walls decorated by photos from Leslie’s past.  Chef Skipper was the longtime sous chef when Boden was running the kitchen.  The place features small sharable plates of handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas, Thursday through Sunday.  They don’t have a website but post the week’s menu on their Facebook page.   There are some prix fixe options, wine pairings and the pastas come in a two sizes.  We chose our own wine and assortment of dishes to share.  It was outstanding with tons of flavor and interesting combinations of ingredients.  This place won a Beard award for best new restaurant under Boden and Skipper is living up to its heritage.  Put this on your list of places to go as soon as you can. Continue reading →